Are you wanting a built in, in the same category as a SZ, or a counter depth, which a lot of companies make (and are NOT counter depth) or a full depth fridge, which can be a full 36" deep, front to back?

Is this an upscale redo that would expect a SZ level appliance package? Because a full depth fridge is not a substitute for that. At ALL.

I'd ideally like a higher end fridge. But if all of my higher end fridge options at 36" are only 20 cubic feet inside, I'd rather give up the beautiful look of a built in fridge for the function of a full depth fridge that is not built in. I'm not super concerned about whether a high end appliance package is expected at my price point; we'll be living here for 10 more years at least, and i think our price point can go either way.

I guess the question is whether there are any higher end fridges (built in look or not) that are 36" but offer closer to 25 cubic feet interior.

Bosch makes a standard depth freestanding refrigerator that's 26 cu ft. It's not built-in, obviously, but we have their counter-depth freestanding model and the finishes are definitely a step above some of the other freestanding brands we looked at. Worth taking a look at, at least.

You are assuming a "higher end brand" is better than a "lower end brand". Many refrigerator manufacturers sell virtually the same product under multiple brands: Haier (GE, Profile, Cafe, Monogram), Samsung (Samsung, Dacor), BSH (Bosch, Thermador, Gaggenau), Whirlpool... slapping different handles and badges on "higher end brand" models and jacking up the prices.

"I guess the question is whether there are any higher end fridges (built in look or not) that are 36" but offer closer to 25 cubic feet interior."

Well, not "higher end" but counter-depth, 36", French Door, 26.5 cf:

• LG LRFLC2706S
• LG Studio SRFB27S3