Imo the matching panels, integrated only, is preferable.

Planning to replace our 30 yr old SZ. Here is what we have currently.

I’ve posted this kitchen before, but it is a favorite of mine. Acres of custom cabinetry, stunning stone counters, 12’ island, beautiful flooring, custom hood. The look is modern, with industrial touches, yet warm. It has Miele fridge columns with stainless steel doors, with door handles that are more spare than the ubiquitous long fridge handles.

One reason not to have fridge paneling is to break up walls of paneling and provide a relief of metallic contrast against wood.

If you’re not also changing your cabinets, I’d say get the SS panels. You have raised panel doors and those can look dated in a new kitchen. If you’re getting new cabinets with a Shaker or slab door, then fully integrated paneled would my recommendation.

Either works fine, it's just personal preference. The newer panels now use handles instead of the integrated ones you currently have. I'm remodeling in a few months and decided to get the fridge paneled. I just don't like the looks of a big honking piece of stainless in my kitchen. However, I'm moving up to the 48 inch for the 42, so it's a lot of fridge.

I have both. In my almost 12 year kitchen I have the paneled sub zero. When it was time to renovate our second home, I did not want to go with the added expense of a sub zero.

Both my kitchens are small. I honestly don't mind the stainless.

So although I agree withDesign Girl that it's a matter of preference, if you have a small kitchen and can afford the paneled, it does give it better visual continuity.

Both can look great. Choose which you prefer and design around that.