I think that would help visually but not sure how the venting in inside tha monster. I ahve to tell you tha was waytoo big for the kitchen and a much sleeker stainless hood would have been better That also should not be so attached to the cabinet sides it cant be removed . There should never be ashelf above a range for sure but honestly you are spending money on upgrades this would be my first one anf honestly the backsplash is the only thing I would repace right now since the kitchen is dated and how is that hood even vented to outside ?

What do you mean by stronger insert? This vent hood has a metal surround on all sides

By the way, this is a ducted range hood (ventless) which is approved for use over an electric cooktop.

*(vented)

Correction - I am told that this vents to the outside behind the vent hood