Hide the microwave!
Maybe it’s just me, but I find microwaves to be boring boxes that provide no aesthetic appeal in the kitchen. Of course they are useful for melting butter and chocolate, warming milk, reheating leftovers, etc., but better to place a microwave out of sight. I tucked my microwave conveniently under the counter at the end of my island. It’s within easy reach for baking and cooking needs but otherwise I don’t have to look at it.
Note how the microwave is framed in with ventilation slats so the microwave has airflow all around. Keep that in mind when remodeling.