No to a micro as hood; they just aren't efficient. Without photos, we have no way of evaluating your situation.

We can't give you options without seeing what you are working with. Microhoods are the worst of both of their parents- too high to work well as a microwave, and they suck at sucking. That said, in many small apartment or condo kitchens they are the best option. I opted for a decorative hood in my kitchen and the micro in the pantry because in our last house our microwave was broken for six months and we didn't miss it...

I agree .

Replacing appliances for now. The other side of the kitchen you can't see is a pantry and a 71" wall.

You seem to have a lot of counter space. I would put a microwave anywhere it fits except above the range. They are in the way of cooking surface and don't properly exhaust. Looks like you have ductwork above the range. Nothing changed my cooking love as much as have an excellent vent hood.

I have never had a vent hood and have only had microwave over range with no complaints. Maybe I don't know what I'm missing? There really isn't a lot of counter space at all.

Two things. You don't have a micro over the range now so replace the other appliances until you can remodel. Or give us a floorplan of your space and a picture of the pantry wall. We may have some new ideas. I don't think an otr has been recommended here. It could be a first.

Sorry this is all I have the wall is about 75” but don’t want to extend into the pass through by the peninsula.

deco, can you call please elaborate? How would that work? Is that another cabinet to put under there?

Agree, add a cabinet where that overhang is and have an under cabinet MW (doesn't have to be a drawer style)

In addition to over-the-range microwave ovens, there are also over-the-counter microwave ovens. See Sharp for an example.

The value of a real hood venting outside depends on what one cooks. For most significant cooking (temperature and/or volume), a real hood is needed to keep grease off the walls and furniture, and odors suppressed.

I actually like having my small microwave on the counter. It's right up against the refrigerator so it is not intrusive and if it breaks, it will be very easy to replace.

I was eyeing that nook too, but I'll bet it's for a trash can...

Hi acm, there is a closet for the can