Kitchen Design Concepts Makes Its Mark in the Dallas Design District
With fine-art dealerships, sleek furniture showrooms, and colorful stores selling high-end textiles, the Dallas Design District embodies the creative spirit and an atmosphere of elegance. Kitchen Design Concepts and its newly renovated Design Studio now makes the district an even more compelling resource for designers, builders, remodelers and their clients.
The story of how Kitchen Design Concepts came to be starts some 20 years ago.
A friend of Mary Kathryn Reese asked her to come look at a kitchen remodel that was going on in her home. She knew Mary Kathryn could quickly assess the plans, budget numbers, etc., and offer some practical advice. After all, her friend was a corporate management consultant, astute at doing business analysis and “finding the fix” to complete her clients’ complex and complicated multi-million-dollar projects on time and on budget.
Little did the friend know, however, that her timing was impeccable. With global commitments at work and an infant to care for at home, Mary Kathryn’s work/life balance had become a huge challenge, and she was contemplating a change. Long story short, she and her life partner bought the remodeling company, renamed it Kitchen Design Concepts, and the rest is history.
Defining the Process
Already possessing an eye for design and a love for cooking and entertainment and both armed with Fortune 500 work experience, the new business owners diligently sponged up all they could learn about the remodeling industry. The Kitchen Design Concepts Process was carefully defined to include the signature “Lifestyle Assessment” and “Existing Inventory Mapping.” These simple, yet very personal assessments offered to each client, make every project experiential. And even in Year One, Kitchen Design Concepts saw a profit.
Establishing Expertise
Over her years in business, Mary Kathryn has become widely regarded as a kitchen and bath expert within the design and remodeling industry. Frequently interviewed by design publications regarding kitchen trends and industry insights, she has been featured on Good Morning Texas, multiple radio shows, and as a guest panelist for trade conferences and design communities such as Houzz.
The firm’s remodeling projects grew in size and scope. And Kitchen Design Concepts’ portfolio and trophy case prove the firm’s capability to take on virtually any type of remodeling—a boon to the loyal customers who often started with the kitchen and decide to do more. But all the while, kitchens have remained the catalyst.
A Vision for Growth
Ten years ago, having a kitchen design studio in the heart of Dallas’ Design District became a long-range goal—one that came to fruition last year. Meanwhile, Kitchen Design Concepts established itself as a cabinetry specialist. It began representing a number of cabinet lines that were made available to both its own customers and the customers of industry peers.
A client was responsible for turning them on to the building where the Kitchen Design Concepts Design Studio now stands. They closed on the property in December 2021 and began the process of planning and construction. And like any construction project taking place over these past few years of challenging times, it was not without its share of obstacles to overcome. “But finding creative solutions is the business we’re in,” says Mary Kathryn.
A Long-Term Goal Magnificently Realized
When clients walk throughKitchen Design Concepts’ Design Studio, they see it all. There are examples of kitchens designed across different price points. Each vignette provides an education about kitchen design and current trends. The building’s skylights and windows allow natural light to stream in. This perfectly simulates a home environment, ideal for their design studio kitchen displays.
My tour included a pastel kitchen with unique color patterns and a bold pink “Barbie” bathroom. There was a diverse range of cabinet options, each designed to suit various tastem preferences and styles. Mary Kathryn carefully explained today’s key design trends. She discussed the rise of frameless cabinets, a shift away from all-white kitchens, and a preference for warm neutral tones, bold colors, and textured surfaces.
It was easy to agree that cabinets convey the quality of the space as much as they serve their essential role of supplying storage. But her own scope of knowledge and enthusiasm for sharing it didn’t stop there. We discussed appliance placement, countertop materials and sustainability. And she revealed future plans for an outdoor kitchen display as we explored the area outside of the building’s back door.
Building an Expert Team
Not surprisingly, the happy space, professional atmosphere and thriving business has attracted top talent. Along the way on the tour, Project Coordinator Zach Bartley popped in. And I was introduced to Roshel Holland, Design Studio Manager.
At her drawing board, I met Erica Illions, Designer & Project Manager for Revive. This line of KDC’s business shows client options for changing their kitchens on a cosmetic level without a full remodel.
As the tour ended, Mary Kathryn excused herself to go back to her desk, She modestly proclaimed that she was the “just” the business brain, giving credit for the design talent to her team of experts. Besides the team members I met, there are five designers, another project manager, and a Partner Channel Director.
Next, I sat down with Residential Designer Katie Bacon, who has been with the firm since the start. I wanted to hear about her recent project in North Dallas. And her presentation was beautifully executed in a well-lit meeting space. Utilizing the latest technology, she showed pictures illustrating the design goals, challenges, and successful completion. All the while, her passion for fulfilling the customer’s goals and vision was exuded.
A Shining Inspiration
I left my showroom tour exhilarated by seeing beautiful work and a beautiful showroom, indeed. But I was even more inspired by the story of Mary Kathryn’s journey of ideation, persistence, and triumph and the example she sets for industry peers. Her success extends far beyond the monetary reward of building a successful business. The major gift to the community is its impact made on customers, employees, and the broader business climate, validating the dedication and passion of Mary Kathryn and her team. I also left confident that they are still hard at work. And I can’t wait to see what comes next in Kitchen Design Concepts’ evolution.
Sherwin-Williams’ Niebla Azul was used as accent color in cabinetry and the dry bar. It provides a contemporary twist on the traditional design.
150 Payne St. Dallas, TX 75207
214-390-8300
kitchendesignconcepts.com
LEARN MORE: Sustainability and Wellness are at the top of the list for most people choosing to remodel their homes or build a new one. Read more post related to kitchen and bath design:
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