We live in SoCal so our weather is a bit different. We didn't use steel studs so I can't help you there. But we are using an indoor refrig. The unit sits 2 inches off the ground on slats, there's a slight overhang on the countertop so it's pretty much protected. We had a friend who did the same and their refrig lasted 10 years before the rust started getting bad. We also put in an outdoor GFI(?) so if it does short out it won't hurt anyone.

I had one built, but it's pretty small. It's got a raised bar and is in an L shape. It's possible to put 6 bar stools there, but I have 4 only. The other two are at a bar high teak accent table on the other side of the pool. The counters and bar are covered with granite. It looks lovely, BUT no one can sit there too often because granite is HOT in the summer, and FREEZING in the winter. I'd use something else. I do put place mats on there for guests, but if you accidentally put your hand on the granite.. shudder!! I have a sink with only cold water. The drop in grill is by Pacific Gas Specialties, Model K-40 Ultra. has a nice rotisserie with infra red heat and it works great! We have had no problems with it in 5 years!! If I did it over, I'd have some side burners. The refrigerator is certified by UL for outdoor use. That's important, and the Fridge is great! The entire thing was built in blocks and plastered and painted. On the bar side, I had 20" tile strips glued on for kick protection from those who sit there. This is a good feature. Looks great and is functional. If I did it over, I'd have the storage under the BBQ with removable shelves. Now and then you have to get under there. Shelves are nice, but we left ours dirt because we didn't think of removable shelves. We keep wood chips in there and stuff like that. Oh, and of course I have the mandatory umbrella. We live in the desert, and get some mighty winds now and then, so the poor umbrella is pretty thrashed. I still use the part that works. One side hangs there all broken, but I think it lends character! There are electric outlets in it, so we bring lamps out there at night. If I did it over, I'd have built in overhead lighting.... Like 3 corner poles connected by a funky hanging light thing. Too late to do that now. Sorry I don't have a picture to post, but you get the drift! Yours are probably already built, but I decided to bump this one up just in case....... Happy Grilling!

i have the same configuration as you with my double ovens and fridge behind the island seating. One of the best decisions I made for my remodel was getting a counter depth fridge AND getting rid of my stools that had backs and swiveled. What a difference it made not only in when someone is getting something out of the fridge or oven (now they can pivot to the island to set something down) but also for parties where you use the island as a buffet (the stools don't get in the way and guests can reach over them to get food). Plus they don't take any coveted aisle space when walking through. Here is my set up: I'm wondering if my stools would work in your kitchen? They are super comfy because of the cushion and I don't miss the backs or the swivels of my old ones like I thought I would. Here are some others:

I have these in gray. They are very comfortable and swivel. They are big as I am a larger woman. https://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Madison-Park-Irvine-Upholstered-27-inch-Swivel-Bar-Stool/19456327/product.html