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In the relentless pursuit of healing and empowerment, Dana Battaglia, the founder of Living the Dream Ministries, emerges as a dynamic force for change. As a published author of "Learning To Be An Overcomer," a passionate keynote speaker, and a relentless advocate for those who have faced abuse and the profound challenges of divorce, Dana has devoted her life to empowering survivors and fostering resilience.

A New Chapter Unfolds: Dana's Healing Lodge & Event Center

In a groundbreaking announcement, Dana reveals the acquisition of a generous land donation for the establishment of Dana's Healing Lodge. This confidential six-bedroom facility will serve as a haven for Executive Business Owners & Wives, Church Pastors & Wives, Executive Coaches who have weathered the storm of abuse or divorce recovery.

The Harsh Realities of Sex Trafficking

Sex trafficking remains a pervasive and horrifying issue that casts its shadow over countless lives globally. The physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental trauma inflicted upon survivors is immeasurable, leaving indelible scars that persist long after the immediate danger has passed. The journey to healing is riddled with challenges, compelling survivors to navigate a complex road to recovery.

Dana's House: A Holistic Sanctuary for Recovery

Acknowledging the critical need for a safe haven, Dana's House, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit, was established to provide comprehensive support for women recovering from the horrors of the sex trafficking trade. The organization adopts a holistic approach, addressing the physical, spiritual, emotional, financial, and mental well-being of survivors. The Safe Houses will provide a secure and supportive environment, fostering healing and restoration for the most vulnerable survivors. 

A Call to Action: Supporting Dana's House

To extend its reach and impact, Dana's House and Healing Lodge are actively raising funds to establish safe houses for those affected by sex trafficking or abuse. The initiative aims to create a network of sanctuaries, providing safety and healing to survivors on their path to recovery.

How You Can Help:

  • Donate: Your generous end of the year contributions directly support the establishment and maintenance of safe houses.

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  • Spread Awareness or Volunteer: Share Dana's story and the mission of Dana's House to raise awareness about the pressing issue of sex trafficking or Join The Team and Become a Corporate Sponsor.

  • Attend the First Annual Sunflower Blacktie Event: Purchase a table or ticket for this impactful event on Saturday, April 6, 2024.

In a world often fraught with darkness, Dana's House and Healing Lodge emerge as guiding lights, offering hope and healing to those who have endured unspeakable traumas. Through collective efforts and support, we can contribute to a future where survivors find not just safety but the strength to reclaim their lives and live their dreams.

For Additional Information, Contact: Living The Dream Ministries
Phone: 469-909-8384

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Kitchen Design Concepts

Determining the best time for a kitchen remodel is not just a matter of convenience but a strategic choice that can significantly impact the project’s efficiency, cost, and overall success. The process of kitchen remodeling is usually segmented into three distinct phases: pre-remodel preparation, the core remodeling stage, and post-remodel finalization. 

So, when is the best time for kitchen remodeling? Selecting the optimal time can make a considerable difference in the quality and outcome of your renovation. Kitchen Design Concepts, a Dallas-based home remodeling company, offers in-depth guidance on how to pinpoint the best time to remodel your kitchen, breaking down each phase to facilitate well-informed decisions.

Assessing Your Needs

Evaluating the Condition of Your Current Kitchen

Kitchen Design Concepts recommends starting by conducting a thorough evaluation of your current kitchen’s condition. Identifying functional issues such as inadequate storage, poor lighting, or an impractical layout can help you prioritize what truly needs addressing.

Recognizing outdated design elements like aged cabinets or dated countertops can give you a clearer vision of the aesthetic updates your space requires. This dual-focus assessment ensures that your remodel will not only enhance the kitchen’s visual appeal but also improve its overall functionality.

Defining Your Remodeling Goals

After identifying the issues with your current kitchen, the next step is to clearly define your remodeling goals. These goals could range from enhancing functionality by optimizing the workflow and adding smart storage solutions to improving aesthetics through modern finishes and color schemes. 

Another important but often overlooked goal is increasing energy efficiency by incorporating eco-friendly appliances and materials. By clearly setting these objectives, you are better equipped to communicate your vision to your remodeling team, ensuring that the results align with your specific needs.

Budget Considerations

Set a Realistic Budget for Your Kitchen Remodeling Project

A crucial element of successful kitchen remodeling is establishing a realistic budget. To do this effectively, you’ll need to research the costs of both materials and labor specific to your project’s scope. Websites, quotes from suppliers, and consultations with professionals can offer valuable insights into market rates. 

Kitchen Design Concepts advises homeowners to allocate a portion of their budget to unexpected expenses, such as delays or unforeseen structural issues. Being financially prepared can help mitigate stress and prevent cost overruns, enabling a smoother, more predictable renovation process.

Explore Financing Options

The next step is to explore various financing options to fund your project. Investigating options like home improvement loans, grants, or other forms of financial assistance can play an important role in determining the scope and scale of your renovation. Understanding what resources are available to you financially will not only help you set a realistic budget but also allow you to make more informed choices about the materials and services you can afford.

Seasonal Considerations

Spring

The moderate Dallas climate in spring allows for a seamless renovation process, reducing the risk of weather-induced delays. Outdoor-oriented projects, such as installing new patio doors or adding a sunroom extension, are more viable during this season.

Summer

Long daylight hours during summer can expedite project timelines. However, consider the potential heat if your renovation leaves you temporarily without climate control. This season is suitable for integrating outdoor kitchen features like a grill station.

Fall

Undertaking your project in the fall offers the benefit of moderate weather, which is facilitative for both indoor and outdoor tasks. Aim for completion before the holiday season to fully enjoy your upgraded kitchen during family gatherings.

Winter

Though often overlooked, winter can be the best time of year to remodel the kitchen due to decreased demand, potentially leading to cost savings on materials and labor.

Kitchen Remodeling Contractor Availability

Taking contractor availability into account is an essential aspect of your kitchen remodeling timeline. Contractors often have peak seasons, usually coinciding with favorable weather conditions, during which their schedules fill up quickly. Planning well in advance enables you to secure the services of your preferred contractor.  

Navigating the remodel during a kitchen contractor’s busy season might expose your project to potential delays and high-demand pricing. Thus, a proactive approach to contractor availability allows you to align your project’s timelines better, mitigating risks of setbacks and ensuring quality workmanship.

Lifestyle and Convenience

Incorporating lifestyle and convenience factors into your planning is essential for minimizing disruptions during the remodeling process. When selecting the best time for kitchen remodeling, consider a time frame when your household can more easily adapt to changes, such as during school holidays or a work-from-home period, which can mitigate stress. 

You’ll need to make provisions for alternative cooking and dining setups, like setting up a temporary kitchen or planning for more takeout meals. By considering how the renovation will impact your daily life, you can ensure a smoother transition through each phase of the project.

Trends and Innovations

Keeping up with the recent innovations and trends is valuable for achieving a kitchen remodel that is both aesthetically pleasing and functionally advanced. While it’s tempting to go for the latest design trends, incorporating timeless elements ensures that your kitchen retains its appeal over the years. On the technology front, embracing innovations like smart appliances or energy-efficient fixtures can add a modern flair and enhance utility. 

If you’re ready to take the next step on your kitchen remodeling journey, visit kitchendesignconcepts.com. 

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Mixology Mondays at Sheraton Dallas

Sheraton Dallas Hotel has an experience for purchase or amenity to add on to make every staycation at the hotel in Downtown Dallas more special and customized to the travelers’ desires. 

Whether a family movie night is calling your name during your staycation; an Old Fashioned in a speakeasy-like cocktail lounge with your loved one is more your vibe; in-room margaritas with snacks is what the doctor ordered after a long day; or you want to advance your mixology skills and take new tips and tricks home with you, Sheraton Dallas Hotel has it all. 

All bookable experiences can be found and reserved here and are listed below.

It’s an Old Fashioned Kinda Night 

An Old Fashioned is waiting for you in an atmosphere Frank, Sammy and Dino would enjoy. The Parlor is a place where you can get comfortable, relax and savor great spirits.

  • One 375ml Treaty Oak Old Fashioned in a bottle

  • Garnish

  • 2 ChocoAndre Chocolates

Margarita Madness

Enjoy margaritas, chips and salsa and chocolates for a fun and relaxing night in. 

  • 1 Bottle of Topo Chico Mineral Water

  • 1 Bottle of 375ml On the Rocks Margarita (3 servings)

  • Margarita Fixings with Chips and Salsa

  • 2 ChocoAndre Chocolates

Movie Night

Enjoy a fun family movie night in the comfort of your guest room. 

  • 3 Bottles of Dublin Craft Sodas

  • 3 Bags of local Deanne’s Popcorn

  • 3 Assorted Candies 

Mixology Mondays at The Parlor

Join the hotel’s mixology classes with the Mixologist, Adam, on Mondays. Adam will demonstrate how to make classic cocktails during the Mixology Mondays class. Classes vary weekly and will focus on one signature cocktail such as an Old Fashioned, Cosmopolitan, Mojito, Sidecar, etc. Learn tricks of the trade and have fun creating your own craft cocktail and enjoying it after it’s made! Reservations are required.

  • Price is $20 per person or $30 per couple. 

Experiences to explore Dallas and see all that the city has to offer can also be found and reserved here. Activities include private tours of the city, food tours, party bike pub crawl in Deep Ellum and Downtown Dallas, distillery tour and tasting, and so much more. 

Sheraton Dallas Hotel is the largest hotel in Texas with 1,841 guest rooms, pool with city views, large fitness center featuring five Peloton bikes, Club Lounge, over 230,000 square feet of stylishly updated and highly flexible event and pre-function space, outdoor garden, and four dining outlets. 

From breakfast to dinner to late-night, the freshing dining options never disappoint as the hotel’s innovative chefs turn dining into an artform. Dining options include Open Palette, the hotel’s signature restaurant and bar; Draft Sports Bar and Lounge, a 4,000 square-foot sports nirvana with local draft beers and tasty dishes; The Parlor, an upscale bar that replicates aspects of historical speakeasies; and Open Mkt Grab ‘n Go, a market with a wide selection of healthy foods and delicious treats. 

 

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As we embrace the festivities of the season, Pyramid at Fairmont Dallas is adding a touch of holiday magic to your list of must-attend feasts for Dallas residents this year.

In the true spirit of the season, Pyramid is set to enchant guests with a Christmas Eve brunch on Sunday, December 24, from 11 am to 2 pm. Executive Chef James Phillips is offering a delightful array of indulgent dishes designed to be shared and savored with joy. The experience is complete with holiday decorations, live music, and festive cocktails.

The special Christmas Eve menu will include a selection of creatively crafted interpretations of beloved holiday classics.

  • Gingerbread Spiced Donuts with Bavarian cream| $10

  • Roasted Chestnut Bisque with local mushrooms and port wine | $12

  • Bananas Foster French Toast with caramel sauce | $24

  • Red Velvet Waffle & Southern Fried Chicken with Fresno chilli maple butter | $24

  • Post Oak Smoked Prime Rib with truffle mashed potatoes, plancha grilled carrots, horseradish mustard jus, and pop overs | $48

  • Citrus Peppermint Chocolate Mousse with orange gele and fresh raspberries | $10 

Reservations can be made on OpenTable. 

Fairmont Dallas is located at 1717 N Akard Street in Dallas, Texas.

 

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EMPOWER is pleased to announce  that Brenda Littlefield is the new Director of Permanency Support.

EMPOWER, a child welfare collaborative led by Texas Family Initiative LLC (TFI), serves as the Community-Based Care (CBC) contractor in Metroplex East. This nine-county region includes Dallas and surrounding  communities. EMPOWER will oversee foster care, case management,  kinship, and reunification services. 

Prior to this new role, Littlefield served over four years as a Conservatorship Supervisor II in Dallas County, four years as a Kinship  Caseworker IV in Denton County, three-plus years as CVS Caseworker II in Denton County,  and two years as CASA in Tarrant County.  

“I am most excited and passionate about the opportunity to work with such a talented team and  model the way for new staff as we move into Stage II,” Littlefield said.  

As the Director of Permanency Support, Littlefield will oversee the Transportation and Life Skills Training (formally known as the PAL Program) for youth in the area. She is passionate about  her work and sees that each child has the tools and knowledge to succeed. Littlefield received her Bachelor's in Social Work from the University of North Texas. She also  obtained her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Texas – Arlington. She is a Licensed  Master Social Worker.  

Many local children in foster care need a safe, loving place to call home. To learn more about  how you can help these children in need, please visit www.3empower.org.  

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EMPOWER is pleased to announce Brittney Pearson has been selected as the new Vice President of Permanency.

EMPOWER, a child welfare collaborative led by Texas Family Initiative LLC (TFI), serves as the Community-Based Care (CBC) contractor in Metroplex East. This nine-county region includes Dallas and surrounding communities. EMPOWER will oversee foster care, case management, kinship, and reunification services. 

Prior to this new role, Pearson served at the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) in Dallas County for 12 years.  She served three years as a Conservatorship Specialist, three years as Conservatorship Supervisor, and more than four years as a Conservatorship Program Director. 

“I believe all children deserve an advocate to help them secure permanency in a safe, loving environment. A child needs consistent love, support, appropriate resources, and normalcy from their community. I am excited for this new journey with EMPOWER,” Pearson said.  

As the Vice President of Permanency, Pearson will be responsible for planning, developing, implementing, and operating the agency's Permanency Services Program. She will ensure EMPOWER services are of the highest caliber and consistency. She will continually evaluate and refine program requirements and service delivery. She will also be responsible for agency program development initiatives from initial conception to the operational capability of the program. She will coordinate with internal and external entities to meet program development goals, objectives, and outcomes. 

Pearson received her Associate’s of Arts from Coffeyville Community College. She received her Bachelor's and Master’s in Social Work from Texas A&M University-Commerce. She is a Licensed Master Social Worker. She also serves on the Texas A&M University-Commerce School of Social Work Advisory Board.

Many local children in foster care need a safe, loving place to call home. To learn more about how you can help these children in need, please visit www.3empower.org. 

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Kitchen Design Concepts

Managing a small bathroom can be quite a challenge. A cramped space can make your daily routine feel more hectic than it should be, especially if you’re sharing it with family or guests. Fortunately, there are practical strategies to maximize the space in your small bathroom and create a more spacious atmosphere. Kitchen Design Concepts, an award-winning Dallas-based home design and remodeling company, has five tips that will make your small bathroom come to life. 

1. Utilize the Space Effectively

This approach goes beyond the conventional placement of fixtures and storage. Instead, it involves creatively repurposing underutilized areas to maximize space and functionality. For instance, consider the space above the toilet or even the area beneath the sink. These often-overlooked spots can be transformed into valuable storage spaces, offering room for toiletries, towels, or even decorative elements. Wall-mounted shelves or cabinets can make the most of vertical space without encroaching on the room’s footprint.

Integrating hidden compartments or recessed niches into shower walls can provide storage for bath essentials, maintaining a clutter-free and streamlined appearance. These unconventional approaches not only optimize space but also add a touch of uniqueness to your bathroom’s design. By embracing these creative ideas, you can enhance your bathroom’s functionality while maintaining a clean and organized aesthetic.

2. Choose a Compact Vanity

When remodeling with small bathroom design trends in mind, a highly effective approach recommended by bathroom designers in Dallas is to carefully select a compact vanity. This involves ditching the one-size-fits-all mentality of stock cabinetry and utilizing customized vanities tailored to your unique space and storage needs.

While stock vanities might appear budget-friendly, they pose limitations in terms of size and shape. In a small or irregular-shaped bathroom, this could become a problem. The smart alternative lies in installing a customized vanity or cabinetry designed specifically for your bathroom. Customized storage solutions are precision-engineered to fit seamlessly into your available space, allowing for the necessary clearance for doors and other fixtures. By embracing a compact vanity that’s expertly tailored to your bathroom’s dimensions and storage requirements, you can create a harmonious and clutter-free environment. It’s a practical and cost-effective choice, making your bathroom a more functional and visually appealing space.

3. Choose a Small Sink

Having a compact bathroom doesn’t always mean sacrificing style or functionality. Small sinks, available in various styles and designs, offer a clever solution to maximize space without compromising on aesthetics or utility. These smaller sinks are versatile in their installation, capable of mounting flush against the wall or resting atop a corner vanity. This adaptability allows you to make the most of every inch, even in the tightest spaces. Adding a small sink is often an easy and cost-effective change for your bathroom.

The benefits of opting for a small sink extend beyond space-saving. They promote a clean and uncluttered look, enhancing the overall visual appeal of your bathroom. Moreover, their practicality ensures you have essential functionality without overwhelming the room. With this trending tip, you can transform your small bathroom into a harmonious and efficient space that reflects your personal style while maximizing every square inch available.

4. Use Hooks

Hooks are modest yet versatile accessories that offer clever solutions for storage in smaller bathrooms. Hooks can be employed in various ways to make the most of limited space. They come in various forms, from simple over-the-door options to permanent fixtures that can be strategically installed near your shower, sink, or any available wall space. While the primary purpose of hooks is to facilitate the drying of towels and handcloths, they offer a broader range of functionalities.

For instance, you can hang rolls of toilet paper in a decorative bag from a hook, ensuring easy access while adding a touch of style to your bathroom. Hooks can also be employed to suspend lightweight organizers for accessories, maximizing the utility of your wall space. They can offer efficient organization, preventing clutter and making it easier to find and access essential items. This simple yet effective solution not only adds functionality to your bathroom but also enhances its overall aesthetic appeal.

5. Create Floating Shelves

Floating shelves are a smart solution suggested by remodeling contractors in Dallas to address storage concerns without compromising the sense of openness in a smaller bathroom. These sleek and space-efficient shelves can be installed at varying heights and in various configurations, adapting seamlessly to your specific needs and design preferences. By making the most of underutilized wall space, floating shelves offer an ideal platform for storing toiletries, towels, or decorative elements, all while keeping the floor area uncluttered and free.

 

Practical usage of bathroom space can make a significant difference in your daily life. This offers functionality and aesthetic appeal, even in smaller spaces.

For years, Kitchen Design Concepts has been a trusted name in crafting both eye-catching and functional spaces in the Dallas metroplex. The team of certified remodeling professionals is well-equipped to deliver quality craftsmanship while working within a homeowner's budget. Visit kitchendesignconcepts.com Kitchen Design Concepts to learn more. 

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Kitchen Design Concepts

As a homeowner embarking on a kitchen remodeling project, it is important to understand that crafting a breathtaking and alluring kitchen extends beyond just the visual appeal. Expert designers at Kitchen Design Concepts, a Dallas-based home design and remodeling company, have developed tips about the importance of selecting high-quality materials that suit unique needs. Kitchens should serve as a genuine reflection of a homeowner’s lifestyle while also reflecting personal style which makes material selection an essential process in home design. 

Investing in premium materials for your kitchen remodel offers several long-term benefits.

  • High-quality material selection enhances the durability and longevity of your remodeled space and ensures that the investment withstands the test of time and preserves its expressive appeal. 

  • While it may appear to be an initial splurge, the longevity and low maintenance costs of durable materials end up saving money in the long run.

  • An expressive and imaginative kitchen remodel, featuring high-quality materials, has a positive impact on a home’s resale value, making it a highly attractive proposition for potential buyers. 

The design team at Kitchen Design Concepts are experts in providing support in helping clients select essential elements that not only enhance the visual appeal of their space but also ensure it remains highly functional. From flooring, countertops, backsplashes and kitchen appliances, each material selection is designed to create a space that is both captivating and efficient. 

Kitchen Design Concepts specializes in providing turnkey services, guiding clients through every step of the remodeling process from lifestyle assessment, planning and interior design, set-up, construction and new kitchen or bathroom orientation. From Contemporary to French Country to an Italian Villa, the company develops a design that is not only beautiful but reflects the lifestyle and personality of the homeowners. Learn more by visiting kitchendesignconcepts.com.

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Finding a new health insurance plan can seem like a frustrating project with many options to choose from, forms to complete, and resources to sift through. If you work in retail, hospitality, or construction, you may not receive benefits through your employer, making it seem like you’re on your own in the process.

Open enrollment officially began November 1, meaning Americans can now access healthcare options and enroll in plans via the Affordable Care Act (ACA) now through January 15, 2024. 

Avoid the headache and access free, friendly, and step-by-step help with enrollment via Prism Health North Texas’ dedicated team of ACA Navigators who can walk you through the process in both English and Spanish. 

If you were impacted by Medicaid unwinding and need help understanding where you stand in the system, are enrolling for the first time, or are looking to evaluate more affordable options in times of inflation and rising healthcare costs, consider reaching out to the ACA Navigators.

Residents of 13 North Texas Counties can utilize the FREE PHNTX ACA Navigators: Collin, Cooke, Dallas, Denton, Ellis, Fannin, Grayson, Henderson, Hurst, Kaufman, Navarro, Rockwall, and Tarrant. 


To learn more about accessing assistance from PHNTX’s ACA Navigators at no cost, visit phntx.org, call (469) 884-6801 or complete a request form to be contacted directly.

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In the ever-evolving landscape of home design, ensuite bathrooms have undergone a profound transformation. Once relegated to the utilitarian realm of daily routines, these private spaces have evolved into luxurious retreats, elevating convenience, efficiency, and opulence within homes. Kitchen Design Concepts, a Dallas-based home remodeling company, has explored how innovation and creativity can reshape living spaces in their client's homes. 

Where Coffee Meets Comfort: A Personalized Morning Oasis

Imagine savoring your favorite brew without taking a single step. This idea has become a reality in the world of home design. In a recent project, Kitchen Design Concepts demonstrated its expertise by crafting a customized coffee bar within the confines of a homeowner's ensuite bathroom. This concept brings a whole new meaning to the term "morning routine." No more bleary-eyed wanderings in search of that first cup of coffee; it's now at your fingertips.

However, the genius of Kitchen Design Concepts extends well beyond the aromatic realm of coffee. Their innovative approach has seen them seamlessly integrate personal gyms and coffee bars within the master bedroom area, creating the ultimate morning sanctuary. It's not just a bathroom anymore; it's a haven for rejuvenation and efficiency.

The Rise of Ensuite Bathrooms: More than a Trend

Ensuite bathrooms are no longer an exclusive luxury, reserved for grand mansions. They have become a common fixture in modern homes.

1. Efficiency and Time-Saving: Ensuite bathrooms redefine convenience by offering everything you need within arm's reach. The minutes saved during your daily routine can add up to hours of extra leisure time, making them a valuable addition to any home.

2. Resale Value: While the primary motivation for an ensuite bathroom may be personal comfort, it is also a savvy investment. Adding one to your home enhances its resale value, making it more appealing to potential buyers.

3. Optimized Space: Ensuite bathrooms are expertly designed to make the most of available square footage. They allow homeowners to reclaim space that may have otherwise gone underutilized.

The Art of Ensuite Bathroom Design: Kitchen Design Concepts

When it comes to envisioning luxurious ensuite bathrooms, Kitchen Design Concepts is at the forefront of innovation. Their portfolio boasts breathtaking projects that redefine the concept of bathroom design.

One of their masterpieces features a cozy fireplace nestled within the bathroom. This addition not only offers warmth but also creates an ambiance of relaxation and opulence. The rich black and brown color scheme, combined with texturized cabinets and golden accents, infuses the space with a sense of glamour and uniqueness. These details transform the ensuite bathroom from a simple necessity into a personal sanctuary.

Ensuite bathrooms have evolved into more than just a space for daily routines. They are now essential retreats within our homes, blending convenience, efficiency, and luxury. Kitchen Design Concepts has set a new standard in this evolution, demonstrating that even the most private of spaces can be transformed into personal oases of comfort. As homeowners seek to enhance their living spaces, the ensuite bathroom has proven to be an invaluable canvas for innovation and creativity. 

Kitchen Design Concepts provides turnkey remodeling services to Dallas clients through a defined and refined process that shapes partnerships with each client. Kitchen Design Concepts works closely with each client to learn their lifestyles, aesthetic tastes and needs for maximum satisfaction. For more information call (214) 390-8300 or visit kitchendesignconcepts.com.