The Best Kitchen Remodeling Contractors in Maine

Last updated on December 6th, 2024 at 04:48 am

Kitchens serve as a multipurpose hub for dining and sharing with family and friends. Tidying up the area is a common component of the upkeep of a kitchen, but solely cleaning the room will not fix, for example, damage caused by corrosion or countertops chipped from years of constant use.

Kitchen renovations shouldn’t be neglected. To help with the kitchen restoration or addition process, here are the 15 top kitchen remodeling contractors in Maine. The following list compiles the Pine Tree State’s best general and exclusive kitchen contractors based on craftsmanship, prestigious awards, press recognition, association memberships, and positive reviews by former clients.

15) Chase Construction

675 Post Rd., Wells, ME 04090

Chase Construction is a custom-home building and remodeling firm headed by cousins Barry and Eric Chase. The firm brings 30 years of experience and a meticulous process to every kitchen construction project. Chase Construction is a member of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and boasts an extensive portfolio filled with projects both old and new.

The industrial kitchen project below was completed by the firm and displays a classic design mixed with a practical modern layout. The stove is placed in the middle island, and surrounded by open space. A synthesis of wood and metal is prominent in the ovens, counters, and cabinets, adding a contemporary style to the kitchen.

14) MGM Builders

8 Turning Leaf Drive, Windham, ME 04062

When asked for his opinion on what the most vital part of homebuilding is, Mike Manning, founder and owner of MGM Builders, answered “longevity.” This answer also reflects MGM’s tenure in the contractor industry—Manning’s company has been in the business for more than 30 years. The firm has completed 200 projects and has been featured in Maine Homes + Design and Maine Homes Downeast Magazine.

The firm has completed many impressive kitchen remodels, as seen below with the beautiful Birchwood Farmhouse project in Gorham, Maine. The kitchen’s calm atmosphere stems from its white aesthetic and minimalist design. Its four-person center island counter serves as the cornerstone of the kitchen. A single window allows sunlight during the daytime for an added glow.

13) M.R. Brewer

91 Bell St., Portland, ME 04103

M.R. Brewer promises to bring a client’s vision to life from start to finish. Malcolm “Rusty” Brewer is the eponymous owner of the company, which offers residential and commercial construction as well as millwork services. The family-owned firm has been in the business for more than 30 years and has been featured in MaineBiz, Bangor Daily News, Maine Home + Design, and Remodeling Magazine.

A classically-styled kitchen is made modern with systematic pops of color in the 2016 Portland kitchen project pictured here. Finished predominantly in blue and white, simple floral patterns adorn the kitchen door and multicolor embellishments along the wall counter catch the eye. The kitchen walls have custom-installed overhead drawers plus a large plate cabinet. A rectangular center counter with elegant wooden stools seats four people.

12) Flying Point Construction

28 Elm St., Topsham, ME 04086

Owned by husband-and-wife team Maryane and Paul Boutal, Flying Point Construction has been operating as a general contracting firm for over 35 years in Midcoast and Southern Maine. Its list of services includes whole house renovations, custom-built homes, additions, and restorations. Flying Point’s finished work has been featured in Better Homes and Gardens and Maine Home and Design magazines.

The firm restored the historic Charles B. Clarke House in Portland, leading to an Honor Award from the Maine Preservations Foundation in 2014. The firm also won the Excellence in Design Awards Competition in 2013, where it was awarded the 1st place for the Residential Living, Open Space, and Residential Kitchen category.

11) Peter B. Rice & Company

94 Webster Rd., Freeport, ME 04032

Peter B. Rice & Company is a design-build firm, providing renowned service and craftsmanship to a variety of residential construction projects in Southern Maine. This highly respected home builder specializes in custom homes, renovations, and additions done in both traditional and modern contemporary styles. Progressive green building is also a large focus of the firm; sustainable techniques are a signature incorporated in all of its projects.

Like many small businesses, the firm started out as a one-man company. Its founder, Peter Rice, has been in the construction trade since 1975, working on small homes and one-man maintenance projects. In 1984, he decided to establish his own firm; he was soon joined by other members of his family. Stuart Rice is lead estimator and designer, while Dave is the head carpenter. Today, the firm’s crew consists of five experienced full-time carpenters. Its size helps the firm fully focus on each job and effectively use its network of skilled subcontractors.

10) Spang Builders

10 Granite Heights Rd., Kennebunkport, ME 04046

For more than three decades, Spang Builders has served the Maine’s coast with bespoke custom homes and seamless renovations. The firm’s style is anchored in traditional New England architecture, which it pairs with modern flairs and features. The firm notably builds green homes, using sustainable construction practices in its renovations.  

Its projects have been recognized by numerous publications such as Maine Home + Design, Design New England, Old House Journal, Accent Magazine, Veranda, and Builder Architect. Aside from excelling in building custom homes for its clients, it is also known for its active community work and pro-bono work for organizations like Habitat for Humanity.

The firm’s highly respected leader, Tim Spang, was exposed to construction and building at the age of twelve. He grew up working with a construction crew in the summer and on weekends, until he graduated from high school and sought work with a local construction company. He founded his own business in 1984. What began as a one-man company quickly grew into a team of dedicated in-house project managers, on-site foremen, and hard working carpenters.

9) Maine Coast Kitchen Design

17 Little Wing Lane, Gorham, ME 04038

Maine Coast Kitchen Design is a design-build firm that provides design, fabrication, and installation of cabinetry, stone countertops, and fine home decor to customers throughout New England. The firm’s diverse staff members are experienced in many fields. Their credentials include over twelve years of design experience, fifteen years of cutting stone by hand, an MBA, an Environmental Design (Interiors) degree from Syracuse University, and a Master’s degree from Boston University. The firm is led by the firm’s president, Tina Richardson.

The firm’s eclectic choices in materials, finishes, and furniture pieces make it a popular choice for many homeowners looking to renovate their kitchen. The firm has its own stone shop, where clients can choose between soapstone, marble, and granite for their kitchen countertops. Custom cabinetry, statement sinks, and colorful backsplashes are also some of the firm’s favored pieces to bring a kitchen to life.

One of Main Coast Kitchen Design’s notable projects is the renovation of a run-down church in Portland. The kitchen became a great focal point for Mid Century architecture. The firm placed the kitchen where the altar used to be, and finished it with distinctive pieces such as a luxurious range with copper accents and three islands capped by marble countertops. The project was featured in Maine Home + Design and Kitchen and Bath Design News.

8) Richard Moody and Sons

| 899 Post Road, Wells, ME 04090

Wells-based general contractor Richard Moody and Sons boasts years of tried-and-tested expertise in both form and function when it comes to custom home building and renovation. The firm was founded by the Moody patriarch, Roy. In a small seaside town, he built houses for his neighbors and ran the family general store. The business grew under his son, Keith, who in turn handed it down to his son, Richard. Today, Richard is accompanied by his children in building some of Maine’s most attractive homes.

The firm is skilled at redesigning living spaces, kitchens, and bathrooms, and is constantly updating and redefining its work. One of the ways it does this is through active participation in various industry organizations, such as the Architectural Woodworkers Institute, the U.S. Green Building Council, and the NAHB.

This kitchen renovation in Cape Porpoise plays with illusion to give the effect of a larger space. A coffered ceiling adds additional height to the room and a wall of windows in the corner opens up to views of the water. Modern design choices like a light blue glass backsplash, white granite, and chrome fixtures complement the light and airy feel of the kitchen.

7) Thomas and Lord

1312 Portland Rd., Arundel, ME 04046

Thomas and Lord is a premier custom home building and remodeling company, born out of the partnership of Kevin Thomas and Kevin Lord. Thomas is the publisher of Maine Home + Design as well as Maine Magazine, and has built custom homes with Lord for a number of years. Lord, on the other hand, was a high-end finish carpenter before he started working on custom homes. He ensures that craftsmanship is at the forefront of the company’s building process. Thomas’ appreciation for Maine architecture and aesthetic paired with Lord’s technical know-how has yielded success for the firm.

Although the firm is mostly focused on new home construction, it has completed many kitchen renovations, and its portfolio shows kitchen renovations in various styles and layouts. The firm generally favors warm tones and rustic elements, including fresh cabinetry, walls of windows to allow in ample light, and reclaimed wood.

This kitchen is part of a whole house renovation of a colonial home in Cape Porpoise. Blacks and dark grays were used as a recurring theme throughout the home. The stylish update brought these colors into the kitchen as well, making their way into the flat panel cabinetry and hood. The beam under the hood was cut from an older part of the house.

6) Southern Maine Remodeling

108 Mussey Road, Scarborough, ME 04074

Southern Maine Remodeling is a full-service remodeling company established in 2012 by Travis Blake. Blake has been in the remodeling industry since 1988, under the guidance of his father. He has earned a wealth of experience over the years and furthers his learning through collaboration with top-notch designers, architects, and builders. Blake holds a Certified Remodeler certification with NARI. His company has also placed in Qualified Remodeler’s Remodeling 550 and won Region 1 Contractor of the year for 2014 for a whole house renovation.

Though the firm completes many kinds of remodels and renovations, it is particularly good at kitchen remodels and home additions. It creates kitchens in various styles, from traditional cooking spaces surrounded by dark wood cabinets, to oversized kitchens with industrial amenities and modern finishes.

5) Houses and Barns by Libby

17 Post Road, Freeport, ME 04032

Four decades ago, a young John Libby began restoring vintage timber frame barns in Freeport. His lifelong romance with wood and construction began in high school, when he worked in his father’s construction business. He founded Houses and Barns by Libby as a one-man company in 1971, using the know-how he learned as a teenager. For Libby, a house needs good bones, and he aims to give importance to the structure that lies beneath all the exterior flourishes.

With a focus on barn construction, the firm has developed a specialty in building homes using traditional architecture and materials. Vintage barns, carriage houses, and luxury timber frame homes fill the firm’s portfolio. These custom homes, renovations, and remodels have been featured in Maine Home + Design, Maine Boats, Homes, and Harbors, Journal of the Timber Framers Guild,  and episodes of “Incredible Maine.”

Kitchen projects from the firm also reflect its signature style. Oversized kitchens are given flair with cathedral ceilings and reclaimed timbers. Pickled ceiling beams bring out the New England style in warm dining spaces. To complement the organic feel of every space, luxurious marble countertops and bright palettes are also often used.

4) Caleb Johnson Studio

110 Exchange St. 2nd and 3rd Flr., Portland, ME 04101

One of the most accomplished contractors in Maine, Caleb Johnson Studios is an award-winning construction firm specializing in custom-built projects and renovations of residential and commercial properties. Caleb Johnson, the founder of the firm, is a certified architect with an unbridled passion in what he does.

Over the years, the firm has acquired a number of prestigious awards, including the American Institute of Architect’s Merit Awards in 2016 and 2018, Fine Homebuilding’s Fine Houses Award in 2015, Marvin Red Diamond Achiever in 2015, and New Eng0090land Home’s 5 Under 40 Award in 2016. The firm has also appeared in 8numerous publications such as Maine Home + Design, Zest, Dwell, Portland Press Herald, Downeast, Better Homes and Gardens, and Scarborough Leader.

Cutting edge kitchen design is a specialty of Caleb Johnson Studios. Kitchens with modern layouts and furnishings are common to the firm’s work, as seen in the Acorn Again project. The space is designed with a minimalist approach—the light-hued aesthetic evokes a minimalist and contemporary vibe. Quirky ceiling fixtures add an almost-futuristic touch to the kitchen’s atmosphere.

3) RP Morrison Builders Inc.

270 Roosevelt Trail, Windham, ME 04062

More than three decades of experience in the business have honed RP Morrison Builders’ mastery of the craft. The company prides itself on its full-service approach to all projects, from large commercial constructions to relatively small-scale properties. Focusing on its home territory rather than expansion, the family-owned firm’s local prominence has served it well, and it has grown into a well-connected construction powerhouse in Southern Maine.

RP Morrison has been featured in Maine Home + Design magazine three times, as well as on Builder magazine’s online site. Maine Preservation Foundation has given the firm the Honor Award for its Rehabilitation of the Charles B. Clarke House in 2014.  In 2013, it received the 1st place for Residential Living, Open Space, and Residential Kitchen in Excellence in Design Awards Competition.

The kitchen in the Tiger Lily project, pictured below, showcases the firm’s outstanding custom millwork. The space’s elegant appearance is supported by the firm’s exceptional framework, including the custom-built wall mount drawers and central island counter. Much like the rest of the 3,800 square feet house, the Tiger Lily’s kitchen showcases a soft grayscale tone that evokes a clear modern vibe.

2) Wright Ryan Homes Inc.

10 Danforth Street, Portland, ME 04101

Tom Wright and John Ryan co-founded Wright Ryan Homes Inc., a residential construction company based in Portland, Maine. Established in 1984, the firm’s high-quality millwork sets it apart from most contractor businesses, as Wright Ryan makes durable cabinetry and furniture as part of its services. The company specializes in custom-built houses, as well as home renovations, additions, and maintenance. Projects in its diverse portfolio range from a vacation cottage in the woods to a quaint suburban home.

A plethora of awards fill Wright Ryan Homes’s resume, including multiple Design Awards (1989, 1993, 1995, and 2003) from the Maine branch of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), one of the most prestigious architectural organizations in U.S.A. Among other accolades are the Wood Design Citation from the American Wood Council in 1994 for its millwork, a 2007 LEED Platinum certification for the Cranberry Ridge Home in Freeport, and the North American Copper in Architecture Award, which recognizes projects using utilize copper exceptionally. The leading state design publication Maine Homes+Design also honored the firm with the Professional Design for Living and Dining Room award in 2018.

This kitchen from the Mystic Cove project shows the high-caliber millwork done by the firm. The cabinets, drawers, and floors exemplify strong woodwork. Countertops are polished to perfection, and the kitchen’s simple yet strong visual style allows the craftsmanship to stand out.

1) Knickerbocker Group

1 Pleasant St. Suite #3, Portland, ME 04101

The Knickerbocker Group brands itself as a “100% employee-owned company.” For 40 years, the firm has taken pride in being a client-driven company with a down-to-earth pitch, prioritizing homeowners’ needs throughout the course of a project. Knickerbocker’s team of designers, builders, and woodworkers provide all-inclusive construction, architecture, and design services. As far as kitchen contractors go, it is one of the best firms any client could hire in Maine.

The group has received numerous awards, including the Best Architect and Best Builder/General Contractor recognitions from Down East’s annual Best of Maine issue in 2018, and Maine Homes+Design’s Professional Bath category from the Award Reader’s Choice in 2018. Residential and commercial projects completed by the firm have appeared in several publications, including Maine Homes, Maine Home + Design, Zest, Down East, Architectural Digest, Country Living, and ArtMaine.

Sharp corners and smooth surfaces are the most noticeable points in the Knickerbocker kitchen project pictured, giving the kitchen a modern feel. An extravagant aquarium serves as a design centerpiece, and the black granite center countertop breaks the monotony of the kitchen’s white palette.