Home Sweet Home
I think it’s safe to say that most of us have heard of the saying “home is where the heart is.” But what does that really mean?
I suppose it’s your definition of what’s the most important thing to you. For me, I treasure my family more than anything on this earth. Wherever they are is where my heart is.
Naturally, I want to be in a place where I feel that my family and I are the most comfortable and happy. It is a large reason why we decided to make the Lakeside area our home.
More than ever, people are moving to our beautiful North Texas suburbs in the Lakeside area to find that sense of community while growing their families or following their dreams.
Developments like Spiritas Ranch, Woodstone and Mustang Lakes are selecting locations, floor plans and amenities to mirror what today’s modern family wants—a beautiful, warm home surrounded by community activities catered to a wide variety of hobbies.
In this month’s Home Issue, we celebrate the designs and styles these new neighborhoods bring to our towns. With an emphasis on family, finding a new home is more than just looking for a new place to live—it is a reflection of our personal style, our lifestyle preference and how we envision our daily lives unfolding.
Home is where we connect with neighbors and friends, where we make lifelong memories, where we celebrate our achievements and where we seek comfort. The up-and-coming neighborhoods we highlight in this issue encompass all of that and more.
I am grateful to you for inviting the stories in these pages into your home, and I hope our magazine earns a spot on your coffee table.
Happy reading!
ALEXIS JACKSON, PUBLISHER
@LAKESIDECITYLIFESTYLE
March 2025
PUBLISHER
Alexis Jackson | alexis.jackson@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Gabrielle Bailey | gabrielle.bailey@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Shannon Spake | shannon.spake@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Jason Laumer | jason.laumer@citylifestyle.com
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Mustang Lakes
Cambridge Crossing
The Parks
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Joe's Pizza hosts a "Conversations over Cocktails" event, providing pizza and appetizers. 2: Little Elm business owners get together at G.O.A.T's Arena for networking. 3: Guests enjoy the view at The Elm Hotel. 4: Anna and Elsa from "Frozen" visit the Lakefront at Little Elm. 5: The Uptown Cheapskate in Little Elm is ready to start buying clothes for its store. 6: The Aubrey Police Department have fun during one of their training sessions. 7: The Farmers Market was in full swing with fresh fruit and vegetables for sale.
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LITTLE ELM PARK AND RECREATION
CITY OF AUBREY
THE LAKEFRONT AT LITTLE ELM
THE LAKEFRONT AT LITTLE ELM
LITTLE ELM CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
LITTLE ELM CHAMBER OF
Create a Water-Wise Garden with Native Plants
Your garden can be a beautiful oasis while conserving water year-round by choosing native plants! These resilient species are perfectly suited to the local climate, requiring less water, fertilizer, and maintenance compared to non-native options. Whether you ’ re growing food, enhancing curb appeal, or attracting pollinators, native plants offer year-round sustainable solutions for your gardening goals.
Need help getting started? Texas Smartscape is a great resource offering garden design tools and a comprehensive catalog of plants organized by region! www.TXSmartscape.com
business monthly
Cottonwood Creek Marina
Cottonwood Creek Marina is busy preparing for the 2025 season. The crew is currently adding new 24-foot and 31-foot slips, remodeling the ship store and is awaiting the opening of the expanded and improved Cottonwood Park. Check out the marina 900 Lobo Lane or at the Dallas Boat Show, which will be March 6-9.
Scan to read more
Play Outdoors Texas
Families can now get their backyards ready for laughter and fun with new vinyl swing set kits from Play Outdoors Texas. Play Outdoors has certified installation crews to put together a brand-new play set or customers can assemble themselves. Also be on the lookout for new vinyl accent colors, Sage and Copper, for custom-designed vinyl play sets. Visit www.playoutdoorstexas.com for more cedar and vinyl swing-set options and easy-to-apply financing.
Little Elm Chamber of Commerce
The Little Elm Chamber of Commerce invites residents to sign up for its newsletter. In it, Little Elm Chamber of Commerce Director Jennette Espinosa will detail the new growth and innovations in the community, including new businesses that will be arriving in town.
To learn more about becoming a member of the chamber, visit www. littleelmchamber.com
Photography by Alexis Jackson
Photography by Play Outdoors Texas
Photography by Little Elm Chamber of Commerce
STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY
AFFORDABLE LUXURY
Learn about Woodstone, Providence Village's newest neighborhood that offers a high-end feel at a reasonable price
ARTICLE BY GABRIELLE BAILEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY BLOOMFIELD HOMES
Woodstone, set in the heart of Providence Village, is a small, up-and-coming neighborhood with a cozy, yet luxurious feel that offers a variety of floor plans to fit the majority of home buyers’ needs.
Phase 2 of the project is being constructed by Bloomfield Homes, a family oriented home design brand that’s focused on affordable luxury, according to Paul Conedera, Bloomfield’s director of sales.
“We do not build an entry-level home, we offer a very luxurious feeling home with high end included features, contemporary plans with great curb appeal,” Conedera said.
He added that while some homes are complete and are move-in ready, the rest of Phase 2 of the neighborhood will be built out over the next 12-18 months.
Homes range from 2,038 square feet to 3,557 square feet and have anywhere from three to five bedrooms and two to four bathrooms. All homes also come with a two-car garage.
Perhaps the most astonishing facet of the Woodstone neighborhood is the pricepoint. Homes fall between $420,990 to $575,000, according to Bloomfield Homes’ website.
“The community is perfect for young families based on the location, tax rate and price point of homes,” Conedera said.
One of the greatest draws to Woodstone is its location. The community is off of FM 2931/Main Street just north of Hwy. 380, allowing residents to
enjoy the quiet feel of Providence Village while living minutes away from North Dallas amenities and large cities.
Bustling areas like Frisco, McKinney and Dallas proper are a short drive away while communities close to Lake Lewisville, like Aubrey, Oak Point and Little Elm, are a stone’s throw away.
Conedera said another attractive aspect of Woodstone is it has one of the lowest tax rates in the area and the neighborhood is not part of a Municipal Utility District or a Property Improvement District, which also means lower property taxes.
While a quaint neighborhood, there is a close community feel thanks to the luxury pool, pool house, play ground and pavilion, making Woodstone a homey place to raise a family. Year-round community activities are offered, as well, which is a perfect way to get to know neighbors and make lasting friendships.
The neighborhood falls in Aubrey ISD, which is a highly rated educational system. The closest school, Jackie Fuller Elementary, is less than 1.5 miles from the community.
While parts of the neighborhood are still being built, there are several homes that are move-in ready or will be available in the next few months. For more information or to tour a home in Woodstone, visit www.bloomfieldhomes.com or call 817-809-8240.
“WE OFFER A VERY LUXURIOUS FEELING
HOME WITH HIGH-END INCLUDED FEATURES.”
THE MUSTANG LAKE EXPERIENCE
ARTICLE BY SHANNON SPAKE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDERSON HANSON BLANTON
Nestled in Celina, Texas, Mustang Lakes combines luxurious homes with natural serenity. This award-winning, master-planned community is more than just a neighborhood; it’s a destination for those seeking both sophistication and tranquility.
The development is on the old Twin Eagles Farms, a Texas ranch owned by former Dallas Mayor Bob Folsom, where thoroughbred horses were bred and trained. The Twin Eagles originally spanned approximately 800 acres, featuring a main ranch house, indoor and outdoor riding arenas, five barns and a foreman’s home. Mustang Lakes was thoughtfully developed to honor the land’s legacy, prioritizing preservation and celebrating its vibrant horse racing heritage.
Mustang Lakes has a variety of villages within the community offering homes from the $500s to $4 million-plus. Homesites vary from duplex-style villas to 100-foot-wide lots and even 1-acre homesites. There will be about 3,100 homes in this stunning master-planned community. Each village offers a range of home styles by some of Texas’s finest builders to meet the needs of any family size.
But Mustang Lakes does offer something quite unique within master-planned communities – exceptionally large lots for executive and estate homes. The Twin Eagles village offers rare 100foot wide homesites with stunning homes by Huntington Homes and traditional homes starting from $1.7 million; new 100-foot models are open. In Rosebrook, home buyers will find 1 to 1.5-acre lots perfect for building a custom home. This village celebrates individuality and craftsmanship, partnering with a select group of approved builders renowned for their expertise.
One of the defining features of Mustang Lakes is its ability to balance privacy with community. The expansive community ensures plenty of room to breathe, offering a sense of seclusion
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WHERE TEXAS HERITAGE MEETS MODERN LIVING
Mustang Lakes has a variety of outdoor activities for residents.
that’s hard to find in other master-planned developments. Yet the community’s thoughtful design encourages interaction and connection. Neighbors gather at the clubhouse, families bond over shared activities and friendships are forged at community events.
At its heart lies a 12,000-square-foot clubhouse, a hub of activity and relaxation. Whether a resident is hosting a gathering in the elegant event spaces, enjoying a cup of coffee in the lounge or working remotely in one of the thoughtfully designed common areas, the clubhouse offers a welcoming environment for all.
With a lifestyle director on staff there is always something to do, from holiday celebrations to wine tastings, fitness classes to farmers markets, Mustang Lakes fosters connections among neighbors.
“I have had the privilege of working on many single-family projects over my 30-year career, and Mustang Lakes is the finest tract of land I have ever worked on. We have endeavored to do our best work developing it,” said Matt Alexander, chief visionary and marketing officer for Cambridge Companies.
Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the professional-level gym, equipped with state-of-the-art machines and space for yoga, Pilates or strength training. Step outside to discover resort-style pools, tennis courts and 18 miles of trails for jogging, biking or an evening stroll.
For families with school-aged children, Mustang Lakes offers access to some of the best educational opportunities in North Texas. Located mostly within the highly acclaimed Prosper ISD, the community is served by top-rated schools that prioritize academic excellence and personal growth. Starting in 2025, some homes in Mustang Lakes will be zoned for the excellent Celina ISD, with a new Celina ISD elementary coming to the community soon.
Nestled amidst lush greenery, Mustang Lakes offers residents the unique opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors without leaving the neighborhood. The community is home to a 5-acre stocked lake and an island with additional stocked lakes throughout the community. Families can spend weekends fishing or simply picnicking by the water while children delight in the expansive playgrounds and sport courts.
As you envision life in Mustang Lakes, one question comes to mind: What would your dream home look like? Perhaps it’s a home office with beautiful views, a chef’s kitchen designed for hosting gatherings or a game room where kids can play. Maybe it’s an outdoor oasis complete with a pool, firepit and space for family barbecues under the Texas stars.
“One of my favorite quotes from a resident is that they love living in Mustang Lakes because every day they feel like they live in a resort,” Alexander said.
With a variety of home styles and lot sizes available, Mustang Lakes offers a range of new home options from American Legend Homes, Britton Homes, Coventry Homes, David Weekley Homes, Highland Homes, Huntington Homes, Perry Homes, Tradition Homes and a selection of custom homebuilders.
So, take the drive down that scenic entrance and let the magic of Mustang Lakes unfold before you. Discover a community where luxury meets nature, where custom homes meet boundless possibilities, and where your dream life awaits
“[ONE RESIDENT SAID] THEY FEEL LIKE THEY LIVE IN A RESORT.”
Spiritas Ranch is designed with family living in mind.
SPIRITAS RANCH'S AMENITIES ALLOW RESIDENTS TO BE PART OF SOMETHING BIGGER THAN A NEIGHBORHOOD
ARTICLE BY GABRIELLE BAILEY
Spiritas Ranch is more than just a neighborhood, it embodies a close-knit community where families can grow for years to come.
Located in the heart of Little Elm, Spiritas Ranch is a 545-acre residential community of single-family homes that boasts of resort-style amenities, including a swimming pool with cabanas, a kid’s pool, a playground, sand volleyball courts and plenty of open green space for families to enjoy.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CENTURION AMERICAN DEVELOPMENT GROUP
Spiritas Ranch is currently in the building phase and will have more than 1,000 homes.
Centurion American Development Group is the operation behind developing Spiritas Ranch and is utilizing multiple builder partners to create a diverse, yet quality feel to each home.
“Spiritas Ranch focuses on building connections; it’s designed to be more than just a place to live—it’s a place to thrive,” said Tasha Davis, the director of marketing and communications with Centurion American Development Group. “Plus, with the mix of homes, there’s something for everyone.”
The neighborhood currently is in multiple building phases and eventually will have close to 2,100 home sites across the master-planned community, ensuring
variegated home styles designed to fit the needs of many home buyers.
“Our builder partner homes are built to impress, with a mix of modern and classic styles that feel both stylish and comfortable,” Davis said. “Think open floor plans, energy-efficient features and options like outdoor living spaces or smart home tech.”
The Little Elm location also offers a lot of appeal to potential buyers, especially those with growing families. The community falls within Denton ISD, one of the most sought-after school districts in North Texas.
Davis said the community will be home to Fred Hill Elementary, making morning dropoffs a breeze. She added that Spiritas
Amenities include a pool, pool house, fitness center and open fields for playing.
“SPIRITAS RANCH FOCUSES ON BUILDING CONNECTIONS."
Ranch has big plans for commercial development, allowing the neighborhood to have a similar feel to a tiny town.
“There’s space set aside for restaurants and shops along [Hwy.] 380 and Ryan Spiritas Parkway, so [residents] can grab dinner or do some shopping without ever leaving the neighborhood,” she said.
The neighborhood is a sprawling community, and it can be a little overwhelming for home buyers to figure out the home style that best fits their needs. Davis said there are some starting points that all clients should consider.
One is deciding if being close to work or schools is important. Many don’t want
to make miles-long commutes to work and school. Another factor to consider is a person’s community involvement. For example, an area like Little Elm constantly hosts community events like farmers markets, movie nights and holiday soirees by at The Lakefront at Little Elm.
Of course, lifestyle activity is another huge draw to Spiritas Ranch - the community is near parks and trails, perfect for an active family. While the amenity center currently is under construction, the workout facility, swimming pool, club house and playground soon will be open for residents to enjoy.
Backyard space is also key. The yard space for the homes in Spiritas Ranch
range from 40 feet to 60 feet, giving potential home owners plenty of options for outdoor living.
This housing variety moves away from the cookie-cutter mold many developers and builders utilize when constructing a neighborhood. Davis said while part of the community still is being built, there are homes that are already move-in ready.
“The 1,057 Phase 1 lots, including 146 lots in The Reserve at Spiritas Ranch, have been delivered with homes actively being built. Phase 3 is currently under construction with expected completion later this year,” Davis said. “It’s a vision of modern living blended with that cozy neighborhood feel.”
For more details about the homes and community plans in Spiritas Ranch, visit www. centurionamerican.com/developments/ spiritas-ranch.
INNOVATION MEETS
ARTISTRY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATE SHEETS
ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN
Kitchen design has entered a transformative era, where innovation meets artistry to create spaces that are not only functional but also personal and sustainable. With advancements in technology, materials and craftsmanship, today’s kitchens are tailored to meet the evolving needs and tastes of homeowners.
According to interior designer Laura McCroskey, kitchens today are about more than just cooking—they’re an expression of personal lifestyle.
“Kitchen design has entered an exciting time where the possibilities feel limitless,” says McCroskey. “For me, the design process starts before lines are ever drawn on a construction document. I believe in creating spaces that enhance life, both functionally
and aesthetically. The design process begins with a discussion about what a space needs to do, and what aesthetic will bring a spark to the homeowner. I also firmly believe that when designing a kitchen, one should walk out a recipe to make sure everything is in the right place to suit one’s lifestyle. Cooking zones are imperative to a well-designed kitchen.”
Modern kitchens emphasize zoning, or the creation of dedicated areas for preparation, cooking and storage, to enhance workflow and functionality. These zones not only improve efficiency but also contribute to a cohesive and visually appealing aesthetic.
Cutting-edge rendering software, utilizing technology similar to that used in gaming, allows homeowners to visualize their dream
“KITCHEN DESIGN HAS ENTERED AN EXCITING TIME WHERE THE POSSIBILITIES FEEL LIMITLESS.”
kitchens in hyper-realistic detail. While these tools inspire creativity, McCroskey advises balancing ambitious ideas with practical implementation to achieve the best results.
Technology, sustainability and customization are driving the revolution in kitchen design. Advanced appliances are at the forefront, enhancing convenience while aligning with a growing emphasis on eco-friendliness.
“From vacuum-sealing drawers that preserve food and reduce waste to smart appliances controlled by your phone, the emphasis is on efficiency and sustainability. Functional storage built seamlessly into marble countertops and oversized workstation sinks are making daily tasks easier and more enjoyable. Thoughtful features like composting compartments and advanced food preservation methods
reflect a broader effort to minimize waste and reduce environmental impact.”
Custom cabinetry that maximizes every inch of space minimizes waste while optimizing functionality.
“Forget the limits of traditional cabinetry. Blind corners, tiny nooks and hidden areas are now designed to maximize storage. Automated drawers and pop-up outlets are becoming increasingly common, marrying convenience with sleek aesthetics.”
Design trends have also evolved, becoming more flexible to reflect individual tastes.
“While white kitchens remain timeless and black adds drama, bleached woods continue to be popular. Style trends are no longer as rigid—whether you prefer modern, transitional, or traditional designs, you can create a kitchen tailored to your unique vision. There’s no limit to what you can achieve with today’s tools and technologies. The goal is to create spaces that resonate deeply with the people who live in them.”
The kitchen is the heart of every home and represents a space of endless possibility. Whether your aesthetic leans modern, farmhouse or somewhere in between, the tools and technologies available today make it easier than ever to bring your vision to life.
MARCH 2025
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
MARCH 1ST
Big Easy in Little Elm
Little Elm Park | 5:00 PM
The Big Easy is back in Little Elm for the 11th year! Celebrate the Cajun lifestyle with a Mardi Gras-themed 5K, followed by a fresh crawfish boil, live music from Le Freak, fun contests, food trucks samplings, shopping and a fireworks show. This event is perfect for the entire family. Tickets can be purchased at www.lakefrontlittleelm. com/the-big-easy-in-little-elm.
MARCH 6TH
Teacher Appreciation Night
Fortunata Winery | 5:00 PM
All educators are welcome to kick back and enjoy half-off glasses of wine as a token of Fortuna Winery’s appreciation. Aside from sips of local wine, guests are encouraged to sample small bites and curated plates and participate in the winery’s weekly line dancing event. 2297 FM 2931, Providence Village
MARCH 8TH
Lights, Camera, Lawn: Sonic the Hedgehog
125 Main St., Little Elm | 7:00 PM
Gather the family and enjoy a movie night at The Lakefront at Little Elm. Guests are invited to sample bites from a food vendor; bring blankets and/or chairs; kick back and enjoy a showing of “Sonic the Hedgehog.” This event is free admission.
MARCH 25TH
Little Elm Area Food Bank 40th Anniversary Gala Fundraiser
2621 W. Eldorado Parkway, Little Elm | 6:00 PM
Spend a beautiful night out at Knotting Hill Place to benefit the Little Elm Area Food Bank. The theme, Denim and Pearls, pays ode to Little Elm Area Food Bank founder Pearl Gentsch, who requested canned food items to donate instead of Christmas gifts 40 years ago. Those interested in attending are encouraged to RSVP at www.leafb.org
MARCH 28TH
Little Elm Parents Night Out
303 Main St. | Little Elm | 5:00 PM
Kids are welcome to have fun at Camp Little Elm for an evening of fun while parents enjoy a night to themselves. Registration is $65 and can be found at www.activekids.com
MARCH 29TH
Silver Saddle Classic Open Show
6071 Neubauer Ranch Road | Aubrey 7:30 AM
Head to KB Ranch for an open horse show to benefit the Silver Saddle 4-H Club. The books open at 7:30 a.m. and the show officially starts at 8:30 a.m. Visit the Silver Saddle 4-H Club - Denton County’s Facebook page for tickets and more information.
MODEL OPEN
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HOUSEPLANTSThe Perfect Roommate
AN INDOOR GARDEN SANCTUARY
The ubiquitous houseplant has long been a cautious curiosity for many. Comments such as “I don’t have a green thumb,” or “I can’t keep anything alive,” have echoed through the rooms and hallways of almost every home in America. Well, it’s time to dispel all the mistruths about whether houseplants are beneficial and to lay the foundation for a little oasis of green happiness in the corner of every home!
By the way, you don’t really need a green thumb as there are plenty of hard-to-kill houseplants that can survive any level of neglect! And remember not only do houseplants look pretty, they also decrease stress and anxiety, increase happiness, and bring a sense of joy and relaxation to every room.
ARTICLE BY SEAN O’KEEFE
Houseplants make us feel better about ourselves in many ways because they allow us to care for them and we reap the rewards of that love. No one is alone when you have a houseplant, as they are our forever listeners. Yes, some people actually do talk with their houseplants all day long! There are many science-based benefits to having houseplants in the home and office environment. Aside from reducing indoor air pollutants and increasing humidity in the
home, house plants have been shown to reduce mental fatigue, accelerate the healing process, as well as improve productivity and focus.
Pothos, spider plants, lady palms, yucca, and succulents are so pretty and easy to grow. It is no wonder that we have seen a revival of indoor gardening trends. Instagram is teeming with photos of incredible indoor “living green” vignettes that show us all how clever we can be when decorating with house plants! All you
There are many sciencebased benefits to having houseplants in the home and office environment.
really need is to a pick a place in the home that has the best light and pick your plants.
Think outside of the box when it comes to decorating with houseplants. Look for underused spaces. Use mixed and matched pots of different sizes and shapes. Turn a shelf into a plant display. Go vertical with some hanging plants or an antique ladder. You can even group some of your favorite plants together into a single large decorative pot.
Signature large plant displays anchor the most well-designed rooms in America and it’s all there for us to look at, learn from, and bring into our own home. Whether combined into a single large decorative pot or clustered together in a corner, always remember the key to any house plant décor is to have a thriller, a tall plant usually with a strong color and form; filler plants that literally will fill the pot covering all the soil; and a spiller plant that trails over the edge
of the pot. Try any combination of your favorite plants or a tried and true combination of a fiddle-leaf fig, a prayer plant, and a string of pearls.
No matter how you look at it, houseplants improve our lives in many ways. Indoor gardens provide us an alternative way to commune with nature and to reconnect with the living world. We all benefit from the additional life that houseplants bring into our homes. In this crazy world of ours, wouldn’t be it nice to return home to your own personal indoor greenspace. Happy gardening!
