A few things. Blue star is not dual fuel, its all gas. The ilve only makes dual fuel in the 48" size but that model doesn't seem to match up. The UM120 is the base model for the 48" Ilve.

As for comparison, this is something like comparing apples and aluminum siding...by which I mean, these 2 ranges have about as little in common as possible. If you cook extensively, sear, broil etc...bluestar is the way to go.

JA vs KA fridge is sort of Honda vs Acura...both decent units, the JA gets the obsidian interior and nicer metal bins. Underneath they roll out of the same factory.

KA vs Bosch...personally I like the bosch. Have for years.

I'd go with Bosch for the dishwasher. We have been very happy with ours and they seem to get good reviews around here.

Don't forget about a hood for that 48" range. It should also be a "main category" as you put it. People sometimes leave the hood out of the equation, and don't budget for it, and end up with an inadequate hood for the powerful range they have chosen.

All, thanks for the feedback.

@Joe Henderson, yes, I do know Ilve is dual and BS gas, just made a mistake writing it out. And I'm not sure about the model numbers, as I was copying direct from an appliance quote. As for lack of comparison, well, they are both 48" ;) On a serious note, I am intrigued by their cooktop power and features and their design customization. I have heard pros/cons about baking with gas, but didn't want to rule out Blue Star because of it. In my early research I thought Blue Star would be a few thousand cheaper than Ilve and was going to choose it, but recent quotes put the Platinum pretty equal to Ilve Majestic due to a Blue Star price increase. So, for me, that put consideration of Ilve back on the table. Does that sound about right? Also, interested in your perspective on service of both, since I see you're an appliance pro. Thanks!

Thanks @cpartist!

And Miele (for integrated fridge).

Bluestar for range. Vent-A-Hood for ventilation. KitchenAid Architect II for refrigerator. Beautiful grey interior with led lighting. I love mine. Bosch for DW. Had multiple units in multiple homes. Never a moments trouble.

GE Monogram also makes one model (ZIC30GNHII) of integrated refrigerator -- it's only 30", but with two refrigerator drawers (also integrated) in my kitchen, a remote freezer, and a habit of grocery shopping often, it works for us. When I purchased it, the price was maybe $1500 less than other comparable refrigerators (like the SZ 27" integrated). I'm not as particular about refrigerators as I was the other appliances in the kitchen - so opted for that and spent my $$ on the other things (like my Miele speed oven -- love it).

Like refrigerators, only certain D/W are truly integrated -- I have the Bosch (don't remember the model #), but have been really pleased with it.

Went with a cooktop and wall oven (in addition to the Miele speed oven), so can comment on range options.

A truly integrated fridge is costly. You may want to build in the fridge. Here are some samples of built in fridge

Thanks, @ptractigal, for the link. Great discussion.

Sorry. I had an appliance brain fart on the refrigerators on a key point.

The JA fridge CAN be integrated with a little wizardry. You should also ask about the armoire kit which will allow you to extend the door panels up all the way to get an integrated look. The unit will be fully flush in a 25" deep install space similar to other integrated models. The KA cant be installed fully flush/integrated.

Service depends on where you live. Ilve and bluestar have some areas that will simply have crappy servicers. What I can say for bluestar or any all gas range is that they are likely to be easier to repair if you are a DIY person.

I'd look at the capital culinarian as well as that will be similar performance to the BSP at a lower price point.

Where do you live anyway? That could help answer a lot of questions!

Thank you for the followup, Joe. Glad to know we can make the Jenn Air work with a little ingenuity. I'm in Bethesda, MD and have good access to service, so I guess I am more concerned with customer satisfaction related to durability and repairs. Thanks!

Amy,

Have you tried out the Bluestar range at ABW in Silver spring? They have a live model. I have never seen the ilve in a live setting. I did see a model in a showroom in New York several years ago. I want to say it was DOM NYC or Metropolitan bath next to ABC Home. I can't comment on any of your choices since I have no personal experience.

Good luck!

Hi @homepro01. I saw a showroom model at Ferguson's in Rockville, but will check out ABW to see a live model. Thanks!

ABW lets you bring your food and cook it. When I was looking at Bluestar, I made pasta and sauce in the showroom. I took my own pots and everything. I did the same thing in a Miele showroom in Alexandria. It really lets you understand how the appliances work for your cooking.