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martha_fox2026-04-21

We’re a family of 4, late 30s/early 40s with 2 toddlers. We make most meals at home but are frugal and like to splurge where it makes sense. We recently bought a new home and are planning a considerable kitchen remodel with a ~100k budget. Our budget for new appliances is about 10-15k out of the 100k and I’m really struggling to decide if we should splurge on a 14-15k built-in 42in fridge or if I’m overthinking how nice building cabinets around a 36” freestanding fridge can look. We’ll be getting custom cabinets and a new island. We’ve been looking at Thermador for the 42” and Bosch for the 36” if that’s helpful. Open to other suggestions that are reliable. After reading reviews and thinking practically I’m having a hard time paying over double for a fridge knowing they will likely break in some way and eventually we’ll need to replace it with the same size (and cost) in the future. If anyone has pictures of their “built-in looking” 36” freestanding or tips to consider to pull me to the practical choice without thinking it will look bad, we’d be greatly appreciative. As with all Renos we already having to think about trade offs but this home we plan to be in for 15-20+ years.

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Comments (8)

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cheryl_vazquez3d ago

Maybe consider a counter depth fridge? It gives you the built-in look without the built-in price.

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kyle_williams3d ago

I went with a freestanding fridge, looks great, and I saved a ton of money. You should go with the 36” freestanding fridge and build your custom cabinets around that. After the remodel, save the extra cash and use it to get the built-in fridge you want. Just remember that a high-end, built-in fridge is only useful for about 10 years before it needs to be replaced. So, if you’re in a 200k home moving to a 500k home, then the built in fridge is an easier decision. Otherwise, just get a budget friendly, high-quality freestanding fridge.

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kathryn_peters3d ago

I feel your pain. We went through a similar dilemma. Ended up with a built-in and it looks amazing, but the cost was definitely steep. Make sure to factor in the resale value if you plan to sell in the future.

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richard_wagner3d ago

What about the depth? Built-ins are typically shallower, which can affect storage capacity.

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harold_carter3d ago

If you're going for a high-end look, the built-in might be worth it. Just make sure to get a fridge with a good warranty. Thermador has a solid reputation, but so do a few other brands. Have you looked at Sub-Zero or Viking?

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joan_kim3d ago

I did a similar remodel and went with a 36' freestanding fridge. The custom cabinets made it seem built in. Just a heads up, make sure your fridge size and material color works with the rest of your cabinets and kitchen. You will spend a lot of time looking at both, so make sure the combination is one you will enjoy looking at for years.

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eric_reyes3d ago

Definitely check out your local appliance store. They often have floor models that are discounted. Newer models might be more energy-efficient, too, which will save you money in the long run.

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kimberly_guzman2d ago

My aunt had a 36” freestanding fridge and she had the cabinets built around it. It looks gorgeous, like it was meant to be there. Go for the built-in to start with but don’t worry about anything but your fridge. Then do the 36” freestanding later. That way, you can always swap it out and keep your cabinets.

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