I had a similar problem in my previous kitchen. Because of the water/ice dispenser in the freezer door, we weren't able to do a long pull the spanned the dispenser. Thought about doing a smaller on the upper, another on the lower and one long one on the fridge side . . . . Wasn't sure. Ended up going with smaller pulls and put two on the fridge side. This is a pic of my old kitchen. Put it in and then moved a year later. :( Forgive the missing panel on the hood. The cabinet maker was using the panel to match the stain on a fireplace mantel.

I had this issue with our miele refrig and freezer columns. Our kitchen cabinet handles did not come longer than 6". They looked puny on the columns. I had already ordered the custom panels. I ended up using the miele handles that matched the miele ovens and DW. The fridge and freezer are right next to the oven so it works to a degree, but I wish a larger cabinet handle had been available. As far as if a smaller handle will function, I think it will as the miele door is designed not to create an "air lock". However, I do think it will look too small.

The issue with small pulls on the big heavy door refrigerators is damaging the panel. The panel is what the knob is attached to, so all the weight and stress of puling the door open is placed directly on the wood panel. Having a small pull or knob puts that in a small part of the panel...and will likely cause the panel to fail at some point. The SZ units are somewhat harder to open because of their refrigeration system. The new thermadors as stated above have a push to open so thats a possibility. Otherwise you can do a pocket handle on the SZ if you have a reveal to allow your fingers space. This would allow for a handleless install as well.

Is this along the lines of what you are thinking? Have you shown photos to your contractor? Of course I don't know how your conversations have gone but is it possible that he is using the word "commercial" for lack of a more extensive vocabulary? Is he actually refusing to give you what you're looking for or does he truly just have no understanding of the concept?