Either will go with a modern design. Why don't you post a picture of your kitchen so people can weigh in. Or isn't it built yet?

It isn't built it yet. We're finalizing on the layout still.

I think paneled doors are more traditional and contemporary, and the ss door is more modern. So go with the ss.

I feel that fridges can go both ways. I have seen enough modern kitchens with panel doors on the fridge to stand right in the middle of this one. Also, right now stainless steel and brushed nickel are very much on trend... but other metallics are entering the design foray so who knows how soon it will be necessary to cover up fridges again?

It still says contemporary, rather than modern, in all those photos to me exactly because of the panels. Like the last one, if you lost the panels, I'd call it modern.

My point was simply that none of them "scream traditional."

Touché feeny ;) I stand corrected. Going to delete my comment

;-) You are a good sport, Yarbro. And I do agree that many panel-ready fridges end up in very traditional kitchens. I just wanted to make sure other options were being represented.

Understood & appreciated ;)

But are panel doors as sturdy as the stainless doors? I tried opening a panel door fridge at a showroom and it was so heavy.

Why do you assume if it was heavy it wasn't sturdy? I've never heard anyone complain about panel-ready appliances not being sturdy, but I have to admit the only one I own is a dishwasher. My fridge is SS. Others?

Definitely would choose sleek modern panels- SS is harder to maintain and clean, and you see it everywhere...why not go with cabinet panel and make it distinctive? as stated above, they can be very modern and they are very sturdy.