We have the R1214. I would say it needs to be open on the bottom. Besides ventilation, it has under cabinet lighting built in. It mounts on the wall behind it and the electrical cord comes out the top thru the cabinet above.

Note the front edge of the cabinet box above the MW should have been 14 7/16" from the wall for a nice flush fit. Obviously ours isn't. Grrrr. It isn't required to be this way for the door to open.

The underside.

We are very happy with ours, but I must say I am not a microwave cook, more of a reheater.

We had a problem with our first one. Sharp's customer service was excellent and the unit was replaced. We would buy it again.

Thanks for this information and the pictures. I think I will go with this model. It seems like we will have a similar setup, namely, the MW above and an oven underneath the counter. We are also planning the same color scheme--may I ask where you purchased your knobs and handles?

Thanks!

Hi,

I'm planning to order a wall cabinet that's 15.5" to have the flush look. But I'm concern the left hand side cabinet would prevent the door swing. I don't have the microwave yet, but if someone could tell me when the door is open whether the door hinges take up any space on the left. If yes, I have to order a 14.5" cabinet and have the door section stick out.

The other option is cutting into the wall to get the extra 2 inches, recessed into the wall. I don't what is the best method.

Please help