If your objections to using a pro style range or a slide in range are economic, that's a different story. But functionally, there's no difference in the opening space requirements for any 30" range except for an Electrolux. If your objections are aesthetic, then look at the link above. You are correct in that you do not see a free standing range in this configuration. In every example pictured, the range used is either a pro model with a pro backguard, or a separate cooktop. A free standing range's high back guard with it's visible controls does contribute to the bulky look that you're averse to. You might consider the GE Cafe, which is all stainless with a second small oven below and the controls are on the front. I have one and I LOVE it! I use the griddle all the time. It has the same 30" opening requirements that all free standing ranges have, but no bulky back guard. For what it's worth, all consumer grade ranges have the same 30" opening required, and there isn't any difference in that between a slide in and a free standing model. If your objections aren't economic, then your choices for your range are limitless, as that opens you up to pro style ones.

Joseph - please elaborate on your comment. Mrs. S - the casing in the middle of the prep area seems like it would be nice to avoid, but not mandatory. Instead of the 2 sliders you mentioned, I did it up (computer) with three 42" windows. Slightly smaller than my original, but everything would line up. There would be approx 18" on the ends (where I'd rarely be at) without a window which would work for me. I had tried 48" windows long before but didn't like it, but the 42" works for me. I was thinking casements would be better than sliders but I'm not really sure how much I'd be opening these windows up anyway. Cpartist - I'm hearing a strong concensus that the other windows don't really matter. Having the windows somewhat cohesive seemed needed since the area would be completely open. Sounds like I'm in the minority there.

not in a million years.. would i have dreamed that up .;... lol ...thx for the pic ... the issue is.. imo ... stability of temps.. whether cold for stratification.. or warmth for germination .... on sunny days.. it will be warm in there .. defeating cold strat ... versus ... cold at night for germination .. it will be cold in there at night ... not necessarily stopping.. but perhaps slowing germination ... i dont think you are going to get a definitive answer from anyone with equivalent experience ... but boy i would be trying all kinds of things ... i dont know if you can get .... where are you?? ... 6 oz plastic solo cups ... but i would put a couple seeds in each [and some dampened media if that need be said] ... write the names on the side with a sharpie.. put some in the fridge.. some in the window.. and just see what happens .. whats to lose in winter ... when you are jonesing for some playing in the dirt ... lol ... ken be nice if there was a scale in any of these pix.. lol .. https://duckduckgo.com/?q=6+oz+plastic+solo+cups&t=ffcm&iax=images&iar=images&ia=images

A pink more on the coral side would give them more longevity. I am not sure if you mentioned their ages but all girls seem to go through the no pink phase. Adding some navy will also work. The bedding is from PB TEEN. I have used it in a clients home and it is great and the price point is excellent for the S & L look of the chambray blue and tassels without the high PP. I threw in a single floral pillow for interest and then carried the coral to a lamp. You didn't mention what type of flooring you were putting in, or I missed it if you did but an area rug like one of the 3 I added in the design board would work. I would keep the art work simple. you could add a trim to the roman shade too https://www.pbteen.com/products/chambray-tassel-duvet-cover-sham/?pkey=cteen-duvet-covers-and-cases