Rye Kitchen Remodel | Oxland Builders

A Relationship Built Over Years

Our relationship with these homeowners began before Oxland Builders officially existed. Brad first worked with them on a small handyman project shortly after going out on his own, and that initial project became the start of a relationship that would continue for years.

After Oxland was established, they came back to us for a substantial exterior renovation designed by a local architect. So when it was time to remodel the kitchen, we were fortunate to get another call.

For this project, the homeowners chose to take full advantage of our design-build approach, trusting us to both design and build the kitchen. Working as one team meant we could coordinate the layout, materials, existing conditions, and construction details as a single, connected process from the start.

The Design Challenge: Light, View, and Character

The existing kitchen was functional, but it felt dark and lacked the character the homeowners wanted.

The tin ceiling absorbed light and made the room feel visually heavy, while the double casement window over the sink interrupted the view outdoors. Those two conditions became important starting points for the redesign.

Rather than treating the project as a simple finish update, we focused on how the entire room could feel lighter, warmer, and more cohesive.

Our Response: Reframing the Space

We addressed the room’s biggest challenges with a few deliberate design moves.

First, we removed the tin ceiling to lighten the room visually and create a cleaner ceiling plane. Then we replaced the double-casement window over the sink with a fixed picture window, opening up the view and eliminating the center framing that had broken the sightline to the outdoors.

From there, we used the material palette to reinforce that brighter, more welcoming feel. White cabinetry, light countertops, and a full-height matching backsplash help reflect light through the long kitchen, while the wood flooring and adjoining wood-lined room bring warmth and contrast.

Together, those choices gave the kitchen a lighter, more open feel without making it feel stark or disconnected from the rest of the home.

Planning for What We Couldn’t See

We knew before construction began that a chimney was concealed within the walls. What we could not know was its exact size.

THE CHALLENGE

Without opening the wall, we had no reliable way to confirm the chimney’s exact dimensions. Designing too tightly around an assumption could have created a larger problem once demolition began.

OUR APPROACH

Instead of relying on a measurement we could not verify, we intentionally built flexibility into the kitchen design.

Once demolition exposed the chimney, we were able to work with the actual condition without forcing a major redesign or compromising the overall plan.

That kind of preparation is an important part of how we approach remodeling. Existing homes do not always reveal every condition in advance, so we design with both the knowns and the unknowns in mind.

Clean marble counters and white cabinetry in a New Hampshire kitchen, leading into a cozy dining nook with natural light

Flush-Mounted Induction Cooktop

We installed the induction cooktop flush with the countertop, eliminating the typical raised edge between the cooking surface and surrounding counter. The result is a cleaner transition and a more continuous work surface.

Long view of a New Hampshire kitchen with white cabinets, wall oven, and soft recessed lighting above hardwood floors

Concealed Electrical Outlets

Rather than interrupt the backsplash with visible receptacles, we incorporated outlets into the underside of the upper cabinetry. They remain easy to access while keeping the backsplash visually uninterrupted.

Bright New Hampshire kitchen with white cabinetry, marble backsplash, and a farmhouse sink below a wide window

Full-Height Matching Backsplash

We carried the countertop material up the wall as a full-height backsplash. Using the same material on both surfaces creates continuity and lets the material's subtle movement read as a single larger design element.

Coffee bar with stainless steel brewers and warm under-cabinet lighting in a Seacoast, NH kitchen by Oxland Builders

Concealed Appliance Storage

We incorporated an appliance garage so that frequently used countertop items could stay within easy reach without remaining exposed. When everything is closed up, the kitchen feels calmer and less visually busy.

Coffee, Conversation, and a Kitchen That Works

Greg has been part of the Oxland story for years, so he was happy to showcase his kitchen and even serve us a cup of coffee. This project is a good reminder that the best details are the ones that become part of everyday life.

A Rye Kitchen with Character

Once the project was complete, the kitchen felt entirely different even though the room’s basic shape didn’t change. Its long, narrow footprint still defined the space, but the new picture window, lighter material palette, and more integrated details helped it feel brighter, calmer, and far less constrained.

For us, that’s what a successful remodel should do: make the existing space work harder, feel better, and suit the way the homeowners actually live.

If you’re considering a kitchen remodel on the Seacoast, we’d be glad to talk through what’s possible in your home. Contact us today to begin.

1 | Collaborative Design

We start with a conversation to understand your vision, lifestyle, and goals. Then, our in-house designers create and iterate detailed plans and 3D renderings, ensuring every element reflects your style and needs.

2 | Thorough Planning

With a solid design in place, we map out every detail, from budget and materials to scheduling and permits. Our organized approach ensures a smooth transition from concept to construction.

3 | Thoughtful Execution

Our vetted craftsmen and project managers bring your vision to life with precision and care. We keep you informed every step of the way, ensuring the final result is exactly what you envisioned.

Plan with Confidence: Your Complete Home Remodeling Guide

Remodeling is a big investment. This guide shows what is possible at different budget levels, with real pricing, visuals, and Oxland expertise for homeowners in New Hampshire and Southern Maine.

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Where We Work

Oxland Builders proudly serves homeowners throughout Rockingham County in New Hampshire and nearby communities in Southern Maine. Our team specializes in custom home building, high-end renovations, ADUs, and expertly designed additions for clients along the Seacoast. Whether you're updating your current home or building from the ground up, we bring creativity, craftsmanship, and a proven design-build process to every project.

We are deeply familiar with the unique architectural styles and permitting requirements across the region, making us a trusted choice for projects in both established neighborhoods and rural properties. If you're located outside our primary service area, reach out to us. We’re happy to explore whether your location is a good fit for our team.

Our Service Area

New Hampshire

Stratham
Exeter
Portsmouth
Hampton
North Hampton
Rye
Greenland
New Castle
Newmarket
Durham
Seabrook
Epping

Southern Maine

Kittery
Eliot
South Berwick
York
Ogunquit
Wells

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