IMO it depends on the models you see pics of > I do not think those built in coffee makers are worth the price when there are so many awesome espresso machines that simple sit on the counter and when they need service you take them to a shop and have them fixed. I have no clue why a coffee machine would require venting but if theinstall says venting IMO any warranty would be void if you do not do the venting. I see this in the install directions as an explanation sort of

The ventilation gaps in the housing unit and the gap between the top of the housing unit and the ceiling must be at least 78 3/4" (200 cm2). Otherwise condensation can build up and damage the machine or the housing unit.

This is our second kitchen installing the plumbed Miele coffee machine. Ours just had some notches cut out in the shelves to allow for some ventilation.

I don't drink coffee, but my DH likes the build in machine and wanted them for the kitchen.

For me, an appliance that doesn't have to sit on the counter is worth paying more money for!

Thanks so much for your input. I was hoping for a reply from someone who has owned these machines. I think we are going to notch the shelves as you have done. I am not the coffee drinker but this is the dream machine for my coffee drinking husband!

Same here! Years ago we rented a brand new townhouse on the beach for a month and that is where my husband got to try a built in coffee machine. He loved it.

When I remodeled our kitchen years later, that was the only thing he asked for, that I make room in the design to fit the coffee machine. It worked great in that house and he wanted it again when we designed and built a house this past year.

It does require regular cleaning procedures (descaling, emptying the grounds, emptying the drip tray, etc) and my husband has taken charge of that now that he is retired and home. Just as well, because I hate the smell of coffee! The machine tells you when you have to do things, so easy to keep it clean and running without issues.

Another bonus is that I don't have to clean the daily mess on the counter from my DH having to grind his own beans in a separate grinder or pouring his own ground beans into the reusable K-cups.