Separates or Integrated? What makes more sense?

There is no wrong way to go, it simply a matter of personal taste. It's also a choice of greater flexibility with seperates or a single box solution.  I have had both setups over the years, but now have a IA with no plans of going back to separates.

My IA is a Viva Solistino,  having avoided tube amp for years, it was my speaker's that prompted me to consider making the move to tubes. I re searched various tube IA for abouts eight months...before deciding on the Viva. 

Good luck in your  search!

Given space is not a constraint, at that price point, I would opt for separates. That would provide for flexibility down the road regarding system placement and changes one might wish to make.

Everyone will choose differently. You have many choices for that price including many top notch sounding integrated amps available these days.  You might not appreciate the ease of an integrated currently but may become a bonus someday.