Are you sure the downdraft you're considering will really work behind a range? Most telescoping downdrafts only work with cooktops. The only telecscoping downdraft I'm aware of that works with a range is Dacor and it only works with their range. In any case, a downdraft is most likely not going to be adequate with the ranges you're considering. You really need to go with an island hood and not mount it too high - there are some hoods that are less obtrusive than others.

Can you take the range out of the island and put it on a wall? That's generally a better location an will give you better venting options.

Sad to say Down Draft will be less than adequate with this range on an island.

I agree with weissman an island hood set at 36" above the range would be a 1000 times better, further at 36" the view will not be obscured.

As far as burners go, I am completely sold on the open for cleaning and cooking issues. Have you seen Trevor's video on cleaning the Culinarian?

Thanks for your input. The Kitchenaid will work as the internal downdraft motor can be reversed and will sit behind the range. But I understand that you think it will be inadequate even if it does work. Guess I'll try and mount a hood up high. Actually I'm pretty tall so will have to mount it higher than 36", maybe even 40" above the range. I suspect that will negate some of the ventilation but could put a more powerful fan inside a custom hood. Any other thoughts about this? How do I view the video on the Culinarian?

brnelson - you can view the mentioned video here: http://capital-culinarian.com/Eurostoves_Capital_Culinarian_Site/Videos.html (3rd video down)

Here is a link that might be useful: Culinarian Videos

I would love to know what you ended up doing. I am in a similar predicament right now.

Julie Tadych - I don't have either range, but this thread is so old. This recent post on the Kitchens Forum might help with your decision: http://ths.gardenweb.com/discussions/4157992/capital-troubleshould-have-listenedneed-to-vent?n=3