Denton, TX March 2026

Update, remodel, buy, sell? This March, LOVE YOUR HOME!

Dear Denton & Lake Cities Communities,

As we head into this March, my heart turns toward the places where we dwell, our homes. For me, the walls of a house tell a story far deeper than architecture. Years ago, I worked with my own hands in construction. I helped my uncle build his house. I worked with a handy man in Waco, Texas as a remodeler. I got really good at measure twice and cut once. When we built our current home, it became a family project to help accomplish tasks in finalizing our own construction. I know the sweat and care it takes to paint a room, repair or replace a roof, lay new flooring, or remodel a kitchen and shower. I’ve seen how a physical transformation can renew the spirit of the family living within.

Because of that past, I have a deep reverence for the trades and the local businesses that build our community, quite literally, from the ground up. This issue is packed with partners who are ready to help you refresh your space, whether you are buying, selling, or simply updating. I encourage you to trust them. There is a profound strength in neighbor helping neighbor. When we choose to do business locally, we aren’t just exchanging services; we are weaving a tighter fabric of care and support for one another.

I am especially stirred by the work of Habitat for Humanity this season. Their mission to build hope and homes is a beautiful reminder of what happens when we serve one another with open hands and willing hearts. It is a testament to the fact that when we build for others, we are truly building for eternity. I encourage you to reach out and get that bid for the job you want done. Gather friends and tackle a DIY project. Working together for the benefit of others is like good conversations. Memories are made, our bonds go deeper, and our community gets stronger.

Let’s embrace this season of new beginnings together. Let’s build each other up, support the dreamers and doers in our town, and make our homes centers of peace and hospitality. We at Denton City Lifestyle remained honored to tell your stories. We would love to promote your business. Let’s have a conversation about how amazing your story is!

With gratitude and hope,

THOMAS TONKIN, CO-PUBLISHER

March 2026

PUBLISHER

Michelle Tonkin | michelle.tonkin@citylifestyle.com

CO-PUBLISHER

Thomas Tonkin | Thomas.Tonkin@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Jessica Crandall Lawrence jessica.lawrence@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Savanna Romano | sr.icemedia@yahoo.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Katie Bode | katie.bode@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jessica Crandall Lawrence, Daniel Arenas

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Savanna Romano, Beulah Acres, Mike Lewis

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford

LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

Proverbs 3:5-6

BUILDING COMMUNITY THROUGH CLEAN CARS

Recently honored among the Top Two Drive-Thru Car Washes in the Best of Denton County awards. Tommy’s Express isn’t just making Denton and the Lake Cities sparkle, we’re building something bigger! And a promise: When you choose Tommy’s, you’re part of a family that believes in more than clean cars, we believe in building brighter futures!

| www.truhuepainting.com

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

business monthly

Profit Matters Celebrates Growth in Denton County

Profit Matters recently marked an exciting milestone with a ribbon cutting alongside the Denton Chamber of Commerce. The team works closely with local business owners to bring clarity to their finances, improve profitability, and support smart, sustainable growth. Their Denton presence reflects a genuine commitment to helping businesses thrive, one informed decision at a time.

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Honoring Excellence in Community Healthcare

Our new advertising partner, Health Services of North Texas, was honored in 2025 with multiple Health Center Program Awards, recognizing excellence in preventive health, diabetes care, heart health, and overall quality leadership. By making healthcare accessible to individuals and families across Denton County, HSNT continues to live out its mission of compassionate, patient-centered care. Congratulations to the HSNT team on these well-deserved achievements.

Ten Spur™: North Texas’ Premier Home Watch Service

Denise Herbert founded Ten Spur™ on a simple belief: no one should have to worry about their home when they’re away. Ten Spur™ is North Texas’ premier home watch company performing visual property inspections—ideal for seasonal residents, multi-homeowners, traveling executives, out-of-state investors, and extended vacationers. With time-stamped photos, detailed reporting, and 24-hour emergency response, you can travel confidently, leaving the worry behind. Denise is CHWPcertified, recognizing her among the industry’s most trusted and elite providers. Scan to read more Scan to read more

Bookcase Styling your

Tips for an Organized and Aesthetic Display

ARTICLE BY SHANNON ROBERTS

A bookcase is often more than just a storage unit for books; it’s a focal point of a room that can enhance the overall decor and reflect personal style. Styling a bookcase can be a rewarding endeavor, allowing you to showcase your literary collection and curate a space that feels inviting and visually appealing. Here are some tips to help you achieve a beautifully styled bookcase.

Styling a bookcase is a creative process that combines practicality with aesthetics. By using these tips, you can transform an ordinary bookshelf into a stylish, engaging focal point that complements your home’s decor while showcasing your personality and interests.

Step 1

Strategically Place Books on the Bookcase While Incorporating Decorative Elements.

When placing books back on the shelves, think about the arrangement, vertical stacks are more traditional, horizontal stacks more modern, or both for more visual interest. Adding decorative elements such as picture frames, vases, or sculptural objects to break the monotony. Incorporating items with varying heights can create a dynamic arrangement. Use larger items like art pieces or baskets on lower shelves and smaller decorative objects higher up. Aim for a balanced look while avoiding perfect symmetry. This creates an organic flow, drawing the eye naturally across the shelf. Incorporate asymmetrical groupings for added interest, mixing textures, colors, and shapes.

Step 2

Use Color Wisely and Add Natural Elements.

Color plays a role in styling a bookcase. You can opt for a monochromatic palette for a sophisticated look or introduce pops of color for a more energetic vibe. If your books are of various colors, pick a few colorful decorative pieces that complement or contrast them effectively. Integrating plants or natural elements can breathe life into your bookcase. Small potted plants can add color and texture.

Step 3

Create Zones and Add Personal Touches.

If your bookcase has multiple shelves, consider creating zones or themes for different sections. Infuse your personality into the bookcase through memorabilia, travel souvenirs, or personal artwork. These pieces add a storytelling dimension and make the space uniquely yours.

More Than Color

THE TRUHUE PAINTING DIFFERENCE

ARTICLE BY JESSICA CRANDALL LAWRENCE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAVANNA ROMANO

For Travis Rose, the path to entrepreneurship didn’t begin in a workshop or on a job site. It was forged through service. As a United States Marine Corps veteran and retired police officer, Travis developed a deep respect for preparation, clear communication, and follow-through. He views these qualities not as optional best practices, but as obligations every client deserves.

As he transitioned from public service into business ownership, Travis carried those values with him. They now form the foundation of TruHue Painting, guiding every project, client relationship, and finished space.

“TruHue Painting was built on a simple belief: homeowners, and the professionals who serve them, deserve a painting experience rooted in trust, professionalism, and attention to detail,” explains Rose. “The name TruHue represents honesty, both in color and in character. A true hue is what you see when the job is done right, without shortcuts or surprises. It reflects our commitment to transparency in pricing, process, and expectations so clients and realtors alike can feel confident recommending us.”

Rose views painting as more than a temporary solution. It’s a skilled trade with a foundation of trust. His focus is on building lasting relationships within the community through quality work and professionalism.

“What sets TruHue Painting apart is our mindset. We treat painting as a professional trade, not a quick service,” says Rose. “From meticulous surface preparation to clean lines and premium finishes, every detail is intentional. Just as important, we prioritize communication. We keep homeowners and realtors informed so projects stay smooth, on schedule, and stress-free.”

That philosophy carries through every stage of TruHue Painting’s work. Rather than rushing through jobs, Rose and his team take a structured, thoughtful approach that prioritizes clarity, preparation, and delivery. Each project is designed to eliminate surprises,

align expectations from the start, and relays a finished result that embodies both craftsmanship and care.

“Our process begins with a detailed consultation to understand goals and timelines, followed by clear recommendations and transparent estimates,” explains Rose. “Preparation is a cornerstone of our work, and every project concludes with a thorough final walkthrough to ensure the finished result meets our standards and exceeds expectations.”

That commitment to the process naturally extends beyond individual homeowners to the professionals who rely on precision and trust every day. By applying the same discipline, and attention to detail, TruHue Painting positions itself as a seamless extension of a realtor’s team.

“We work closely with realtors to support listings, pre-sale refreshes, and post-purchase updates,” says Rose. “Whether it’s maximizing curb appeal, neutralizing interiors for broader buyer appeal, or completing tight-turnaround projects, we understand how critical timing, reliability, and presentation are in real estate. Our goal is to be a trusted partner Realtors can confidently refer to us, knowing their clients will be taken care of professionally.”

The understanding of how a home is presented, especially through the eyes of a buyer, shapes every recommendation made by TruHue. Beyond meeting timelines and supporting transactions, they focus on choices that elevate a property’s overall feel, ensuring each space communicates clarity, warmth, and lasting value from the moment someone walks through the door.

“When it comes to color selection, we guide homeowners toward timeless choices that enhance light, architecture, and flow rather than chasing short-lived trends,” details Rose. “Paint does more than improve aesthetics. It sets the tone of a home, protects surfaces, and can significantly influence how buyers and homeowners experience a space.”

“TruHue Painting was built on a simple belief: homeowners and the professionals who serve them deserve a painting experience rooted in trust, professionalism, and attention to detail.”

“We

treat painting as a professional trade, not a quick service, prioritizing preparation, communication, and intentional craftsmanship so projects stay smooth, on schedule, and stress-free.”

GROWING Local

A Master Gardener’s Guide to Spring Success

ARTICLE BY DANIEL ARENAS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

BEULAH ACRES, GLOBAL SPHERES CENTER

Outdoor spaces should reflect who you are and why you love your home. A well-prepared landscape sets the tone for the season ahead. Use these tips to confidently prepare your lawn and garden for Spring.

PREPARATION AND ASSESSMENT

Ensuring landscape elements are functioning properly helps reduce stress and protect your budget. Test irrigation systems to prevent water waste. Clean gutters and downspouts, and consider harvesting rainwater with a rain barrel. Clear fallen leaves or mow them into the lawn to add nutrients. Improve soil health with compost and organic fertilizers. Refresh or loosen mulch to improve aeration; hardwood mulch helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.

VEGETATION CARE

Remove weeds that compete for water and nutrients. Apply pre-emergent weed control and mow lawns at an average height of four inches. Prune dormant trees and apply slow-release fertilizer around its base. Shape shrubs and flowers by trimming just above new growth. Clear frost-damaged vegetables and herbs. Amend beds with compost.

PLANT SELECTION

Gardeners in Zone 8a should follow North Texas planting calendars and consider drought-tolerant Texas Native plants. Recommended trees include Texas redbud, Mexican plum, and desert willow. Popular shrubs are Texas sage, red yucca, and lantana. Flowering favorites include black-eyed Susan, coneflower, bee balm, and butterfly milkweed. Vines and ornamental grasses such as crossvine, pink muhly, and little bluestem add texture and movement.

IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS

Wait to plant until after the last frost, typically mid-March. Shop local nurseries, design gardens with pollinators in mind, and establish plants early before summer heat arrives. Garden with curiosity and joy. The rewards of a thriving landscape are priceless

Daniel Arenas is a Master Gardener, Urban Garden Specialist, and Educator with Beulah Acres at the Global Spheres Center.

A LUXURY EXPERIENCE

When it comes to curating meaningful spaces, nothing is more personal than home, especially one developed with intention, craftsmanship, and care. For Brandon Larson, real estate advisor and Shop Director with Engel & Völkers Lakeside, guiding clients to the spaces where life unfolds is more than a profession. It is a calling.

“It’s a people business. That’s what I love about it. I get to help people.”

“I’ve been in real estate my entire adult life,” Larson says. “I started in my dad’s mortgage business learning loan processing at just sixteen. That’s where I fell in love with real estate.”

Larson quickly immersed himself in the business, mastering the behind-the-scenes details that turn dreams into keys in hand. His natural drive and curiosity led him to become a loan officer, where he discovered a deeper passion for helping clients navigate one of life’s biggest investments. From there, his path expanded by managing a national mortgage branch, moving into commercial lending, and even launching a nonprofit housing counseling agency to guide homeowners through foreclosure challenges during the Great Recession.

“For me, this isn’t a housing business,” Larson says. “It’s a people business. That’s what I love about it. I get to help people.”

Whether guiding first-time buyers, advising investors through thoughtful renovations, or helping families obtain their dream home, Larson approaches every project with discernment and integrity. Denton County, he says, holds a special place in his heart.

“North Texas offers the best of everything, except maybe the beach,” he jokes. “But it’s where I’ve chosen to make my home and raise my family, and we love living here.”

With more than 20 years of combined experience in real estate and construction, Larson brings clarity to a process that can often feel overwhelming. One of the most distinctive aspects of his approach with Engel & Völkers is his depth of experience.

“I’ve seen every side of this business,” he says. “My goal is to make it easier and more enjoyable for my clients. I can identify a property for investment, help

my client purchase it, and even list it for resale if they flip it. It’s a seamless, hands-off process that allows people to become real estate investors without having to learn everything or risk costly mistakes.”

That expertise, paired with a genuine love for serving others, continues to set him apart. As North Texas remains a dynamic and growing market, the future looks exceptionally bright for Engel & Völkers and, in turn, for Larson’s clients.

“At Engel & Völkers, we believe everyone deserves a luxury experience, regardless of the price point,” Larson says. “That’s a guiding principle in how we serve our clients, whether they’re buying, selling, building, or investing.”

With a global presence spanning more than 30 countries, Engel & Völkers offers unparalleled reach and world-class resources. Yet it is Larson’s distinctly local approach that truly sets him apart. He blends professionalism and genuine connection, while transforming clients into lifelong relationships.

At the center of Larson’s life are two guiding pillars: faith and family. These values influence every relationship he builds.

“My faith is the pillar of my life, followed closely by my family,” he says. “Without those two pillars, I would be nothing.”

Larson’s values are reflected in how he does business with a commitment to honesty, empathy, and doing what’s right. He explains that success isn’t measured by the number of sales or projects completed, but by the people he assists along the way.

“Not all real estate agents are created equal,” he says. “The best ones go beyond the transaction. They listen, they guide, and they genuinely care.”

In a market defined by movement, Brandon Larson remains dedicated to trust. His work is not about closing deals, but about opening doors to security, possibility, and a place where memories will be made. With a rare blend of sophistication and sincerity, Larson elevates the real estate experience into something personal, ensuring every client feels seen, guided, and cared for throughout their experience.

TONE + TEXTURE

STYLE YOUR HOME IN TONES AND TEXTURES WITH DESIGN HELP FROM HOUZZ INTERIOR DESIGN EXPERTS

ARTICLE BY NICOLETTE MARTIN

WOVEN + KNOTTED

LIVING BOHO-CHIC WITH WOVEN TEXTURES AND MACRAMÉ

Decorate your space with handmade textures such as the modern, maker revival of 1970s macramé and year-round tropical feel of wicker. MACRAMÉ Made through knotting instead of weaving, macramé can add a unique touch in many various ways. Houzz contributor Laura Gaskill suggests incorporating it as nursery decor, plant hangers, wall hangings and modern fiber arts. WICKER According to Houzz contributor Yanic Simard, “the best way to really embrace the luxury-cottage appeal of wicker and rattan is to combine different forms of the two in one space... Look for other unexpected places to add a natural twist to your home with a new material woven into your palette.”

AGAINST THE GRAIN

TIPS FOR DECORATING WITH NATURAL MATERIALS

Houzz contributor Katie Treggiden offers many ways to incorporate natural materials and natural-state timber into your home, including using wood to cover one wall in a home for a pleasing accent wall; featuring your firewood as a striking, stacked display; and mixing different types of wood and different finishes in the same space. “A simple way to incorporate the wood trend is to expose structural wooden beams already present in your home,” Katie says. “Instead of painting them or boxing them in, leave them raw or give them a coat of wax to enrich the tones.”

BRIGHTS + WHITES

ADDING TASTEFUL POPS OF COLOR TO YOUR WHITE ROOM

Do you feel like your all-white room is missing something? Houzz contributor Kelly Porter bets what’s missing is energy.

“The best way to add a spark to any space,” she says, “is with bright color.”

Kelly says green is one of the easiest colors to live with, looking organic even in its more vivid tones.

“When searching for the perfect bright green, think springtime—fresh green grass and newly sprouted leaves,” she says. “These greens have lively undertones that will look comfortable and warm in your white space.

Other colors Kelly recommends adding as accents are yellow, royal blue, orange, bluepurple, red-purple and sky blue.

ARTICLE BY JESSICA CRANDALL LAWRENCE PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

foundations for the future

A New Habitat Village Rises in Denton

A dire lack of affordable housing is one of the most concerning issues facing North Texans, particularly in Denton County. This crisis has spurred the efforts of Habitat for Humanity along with its municipal, community, and business partners, to begin construction on a new housing village on the south side of Denton.

Troy Greisen, chief executive officer of Habitat for Humanity Denton County, has a long devotion to the nonprofit sector, with a background in special needs, human trafficking, medical disabilities, and refugee aid. He believes the need for safe and affordable housing is the most urgent issue Denton is currently facing.

“Affordable housing is even more difficult to get in Denton than in Dallas,” Greisen says. “This is the fastest-growing issue in our community. We are actively pursuing solutions alongside our partners.”

Several years ago, an eight-acre historic property was acquired by Habitat for Humanity with the intent of creating a Habitat Village. Located at the intersection of Teasley Lane and Fort Worth Drive; the land was a longtime homestead and had never been developed. Thirty-five homes are now slated for construction in the village. Habitat recently completed the first build on the

property, which was sponsored in large part by the Greater Denton/Wise County Association of REALTORS®.

“Supporting affordable housing initiatives like Habitat Village reflects our commitment to helping families achieve the dream of homeownership,” explains Tori Wilson with the Greater Denton/County Association of Realtors. “Through our partnership with Habitat for Humanity, we were proud to sponsor and help build the first home in the village for the Cortes family, and we look forward to seeing this neighborhood become home to many more families in the years to come.”

Momentum continues to build as a second home is now underway in the new Habitat Village. Greisen refers to this project as an “interfaith build” because 35 church and other faith groups are contributing to its construction. It is a desperately needed effort intended to galvanize the community.

“We design these builds for sponsors and donors to come together,” Greisen says. “It’s a very special scenario designed to put them together arm in arm.”

Families who purchase homes in the Habitat Village finance their investment through zero-interest mortgages. This financial relief can provide the stability needed to alter living conditions for generations to come.

“We design these builds for sponsors and donors to come together. It’s a very special scenario designed to put them together arm in arm.”

“We sold a home to a single mother who was living in a small apartment with unsafe living conditions in Denton,” Greisen reflects. “Habitat was able to provide her with a larger home, a lower monthly payment, and continued stability for her children.”

To contribute to Habitat for Humanity of Denton County, visit habitatdentoncounty.org. Home goods donations are also accepted at the Habitat ReStore, located at 1614 W. University Drive in Denton. Funding from the ReStore directly benefits the Habitat Village.

covering what matters most

423 ROOFING & CONSTRUCTION DELIVERS CRAFTSMANSHIP DESIGNED TO LAST

Barbecues, birthdays, family pizza nights, scrambling to get ready for soccer practice, getting over stomach bugs, and butterflies on the first day of school. This is what life is all about, and it all unfolds at home. From childhood through every season of life, the home remains our constant. A home is one of the largest investments someone can purchase in their lifetime, and having a quality, durable roof over their head protects the memories and moments that matter most.

For George Palmer IV, owner of 423 Roofing & Construction, that responsibility goes far beyond sentiment. It defines how he approaches every project. In a state where hailstorms, high winds, and unpredictable

weather are a fact of life, protecting a home requires more than standard materials or quick fixes. Texas consistently leads the nation in the adoption of impact-resistant roofing, and for George, that statistic reflects a commitment to building roofs designed to stand guard over what happens beneath them.

That commitment has become even more important as the insurance landscape across Texas has shifted in recent years. With many carriers paying out less for roof replacements and tightening coverage requirements, homeowners are being asked to think more strategically about long-term solutions. George helps clients navigate these changes by recommending durable roofing

products built to last 20 to 30 years. These are choices that not only offer enhanced protection but can also reduce monthly insurance premiums and deliver savings over time.

“Texas is leading the country with impact-resistant asphalt shingles by over 40 percent compared to the rest of the nation, and rightfully so,” he explains. “It’s not a massive upgrade to go from a standard asphalt shingle to a higher-class product. We’re also seeing increased interest in synthetic slate, shake, and tile roofs, along with standing seam metal and stone-coated steel. These options don’t require special framing, and they give homeowners the curb appeal of a beautiful roof with the confidence that they’re protecting one of their most valuable assets.”

Beyond materials and installation, 423 Roofing & Construction is known for guiding homeowners through what can often feel like an overwhelming process. George works closely with each client to select roofing solutions that align with their style, performance needs, and budget, while also navigating HOA requirements and coordinating directly with insurance providers. The result is a tailored experience personalized to the client.

“We prioritize treating every customer and every project individually,” he details. “Even when we have multiple jobs going on, our clients never feel it. We’ve refined our pre-construction and post-construction process down to the smallest detail to make everything seamless.”

Before launching 423 Roofing & Construction, George spent more than a decade representing established roofing companies, gaining hands-on experience in sales, estimating, and project management. That well-rounded background ultimately led him to create a boutique roofing firm that delivers high-level craftsmanship without the overhead of large specialty companies. Grounded in an understanding of the North Texas climate and insurance landscape, 423 Roofing & Construction delivers roofs designed to withstand storms and weather the test of time.

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MARCH 2ND

Concert Orchestra Performance

Winspear Performance Hall, UNT Campus | 7:30 PM

Enjoy a spring performance by the University of North Texas Concert Orchestra. Presented by the UNT College of Music, this concert showcases talented student musicians performing a diverse orchestral program at the Winspear Performance Hall at the Murchison Performing Arts Center, blending artistry and community in a memorable evening.

MARCH 12TH

Texas Storytelling Festival

Denton Civic Center | 7:00 PM

Unplug and reconnect March 12–15 at the Denton Civic Center for a celebration of storytelling in all its forms. Enjoy personal tales, ghost stories, a liars contest, poetry and story slams, music, youth activities, and sacred stories. Hands-on workshops invite participants to sharpen their own storytelling skills while connecting with the community.

MARCH 14TH

Shamrock & Roll

Commons at Agora | 3:00 PM

The City of Corinth is celebrating St. Patrick’s Day like never before at the Commons at Agora during Shamrock & Roll on Saturday, Mar. 14, from 3-9 p.m. Dive into a night full of electrifying performances. Enjoy a treasure hunt for all ages, a Main Street Pup Crawl for the adults, food trucks, local vendors, and festive crafts.

MARCH 21ST

Redbud Festival

Denton Civic Center & Quakertown Park | 10:00 AM

Denton’s favorite Earth Day celebration returns as Quakertown Park and the Denton Civic Center bloom into a tree hugger’s dream. Founded in 1994, the award-winning Denton Redbud Festival champions community pride and beautification, featuring plant and tree sales, local makers, gardening goods, family activities, and live local music with dozens of vendors and sustainable, family-friendly experiences.

MARCH 28TH

Pioneer Pace 5k Fun Run/Walk

TWU Campus | 8:30 AM

Lace up for the 32nd Annual Pioneer Pace. This 5K and 2-mile fun run winds around the scenic Texas Woman’s University campus, supporting local hunger relief. Proceeds benefit Tarrant Area Food Bank and North Texas Food Bank, blending fitness, community spirit, and giving back.

MARCH 28TH

Great American Cleanup

Denton Civic Center | 8:30 AM

Join Denton’s largest community cleanup during the Great American Cleanup. Volunteers of all ages will gather at the Denton Civic Center to help beautify the city. Participants receive cleanup supplies, support local pride, and compete for fun appreciation awards recognizing volunteer impact and environmental stewardship.