So with Black Friday in a few weeks, it’s a fantastic time to get a package deal. From what I see, LG is going to have some of the best pricing and package deals. They have products in all your categories. Past LG, Frigidaire Gallery will be running some significant discounts as well.
You bring up 2 very good machines, both are on my radar, but if you ask me to choose, I would go for the ultra-fresh unit. Their technology works very well, and they have held up since being introduced to the market for about 18 months now. Service calls are limited, and no known issues to speak of. It would be my top choice here.
So, I assume you mean a top loader for the lid to open? It does vary from brand to brand. Below is a diagram of a Whirlpool with a larger size lid. The diagram shows “E” 57 1/4 from the floor to the lid to open all the way. So if you go above that slightly, all brands should fit in that parameter.
So, it really depends on if you did a double oven or a single. If a double the Sharp would be nice, but not 100% necessary. If a single like a 36″ range, I would do the sharp as it can be a second oven when needed. Gives you air fry and speed bake! Then swap the 1 2 free promos over the hood insert as it’s too good a promotion to miss out on. Tough call, but the sharp is a great multi-functional unit. Watch out on the Thermador hoods. They tend to be deep and many cabinets can’t accommodate them, so ask the kitchen designer. The secondary market is tough, as the unit probably is worth $1699 retail, and wholesale $950, but it is sellable. Especially right now with everything backordered.
A quick search in your area, it looks required, but anything over 400cfm requires a makeup air kit. If you really don’t want the look, may I suggest an in-ceiling hood? Many brands now offer this look. Helps when you don’t want the look of a hood directly behind the stove. Can also do a chimney wall-mounted hood, or a downdraft stove.
Here is the code link: https://library.municode.com/al/tuscaloosa/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=CO_CH6BUCOREAC_ARTIXREBUCO
Although crescent has been an industry standard for many years, there is a slow changeover to craft-style ice. LG, for instance, has a dual ice maker that will make round large craft cubes in the drawer and smaller crescent cubes in the door. Samsung offers dual icemakers in a few models that make crescent and nugget. JennAir and Dacor have ice options as well. I use a Thermador in my home that makes a pyramid-style cube, so more choices on ice now than ever.
A full suite, when doable, is always best as not only will all the handles and stainless or color of choice match. It will work out price-wise. Now with Black Friday around the corner, many brands will have package deals and package rebates. The best time of year to buy is only a few weeks away. LG seems to be pretty aggressive, but there are pockets of deals to be had by all. Availability is dictating some deals right now. If you can do a package, do it!