While casitas now regularly dot the SaddleBrooke landscape, this was not always the case. When Robson Builders debuted its first SaddleBrooke model homes in the spring of 1987, only one model was equipped with a casita. Toltec, Shawnee, Alameda, Kachina, Rio Grande and Posada were the six models displayed on Galveston Lane in HOA-1, with only the Rio Grande featuring a “guest suite.”
Winning the prestigious Golden Nugget Award for Best Model Home Design in 1986, the Rio Grande’s industry appeal most likely lay in its Spanish Mediterranean aesthetics. Although the floor plan never gained popularity among SaddleBrooke buyers, its front-positioned casita and private, walled and gated courtyard were regularly replicated.
By 1998, SaddleBrooke had expanded into its second phase, and the Model Village on Flower Ridge Drive showcased a dozen decorated homes and villas, with 20 additional floorplans to choose from—a number of which offered “guest suite” options. Originally from Boston, builder Ed Robson referred to the attached and detached separate-opening units as “guest suites.” However, the southwestern lexicon soon supplanted it, with local realtors dubbing them the enduring “casita.” Today’s real estate listings tout a casita; whether the unit be detached, attached, or, even, the upstairs space of SaddleBrooke’s two-story homes.
The concept of adding a casita to an existing home gained momentum as increasingly luxurious and spacious homes, many with casitas, were unveiled in later building phases, culminating in the Preserve in 2005. Rather than move up, many SaddleBrooke homeowners learned they could build the space they desired at a lower cost by adding a casita. Murphy beds made double duty of the space, allowing room for an owner’s personal needs with the bed up, and comfortable, private accommodation for guests with the bed down.
While the pandemic kept couples cooped up with many recreational activities restricted, the demand for casitas increased. Furthermore, following widespread lockdowns in assisted living homes, Baby Boomer began reevaluating their senior care options. Some SaddleBrooke residents are already planning on hiring help to reside in their casita across the courtyard or upstairs. Some anticipate adult children moving into the main house, while they relocate to the casita.
SaddeBrooke casitas typically range between 275 to 500 square-feet and prices vary based on size and finishes. You may peruse the Contractors Book at either HOA office to find reviews of licensed builders who are experienced in casita building and Pinal County permitting. SaddleBrooke One allows convenient access to these evaluations on their website at saddlebrooke.org/alc-contractor-evaluation-forms.
Before breaking ground on a new casita, the HOA’s Architecture and Landscape Committee must review and approve the plans. Both HOAs require a Pinal County permit and the county’s zoning laws strictly regulate the inclusion of kitchen facilities and impose minimum space requirements for entry and egress. SaddleBrooke’s ALC committees encourage the new structure’s color, design and appearance to match the current home, and both recommend informing neighbors of the project as a courtesy. Each HOA has different setbacks requirements, therefore, it is best to consult with your respective ALC committee.
There are a multitude of ways to utilize your casita. Even if you use it for nothing more than guest quarters, how comforting it is to have a little place where you can escape without anyone disturbing your peace!
Home Office – Focus and be more productive in your designated workspace, then leave the work (and bills!) behind when you close the door. Set up a screen for your Zoom meetings.
Exercise Room – No need to travel to the gym or yoga studio daily when you can set up your own home gym with the equipment you actually use.
Craft Room – Jewelry making, sewing, quilting, scrapbooking, painting, pottery, woodworking and more. Unleash your creativity without having to clear off the dining table for dinner. Rekindle a beloved hobby you once enjoyed or take up a new one with online instruction.
Hobby Room – Revisit your youth and build a model train village, or take your time assembling a model vehicle, ship or airplane or a 1,000-piece puzzle. You can always resume right where you left off!
Personal Library – Create a location to relax and read for pleasure, education, or both. You might also include a big screen to peruse various online classes, concerts and second language instruction.
Music Room – Regardless of your talent level, experience the pleasure and proven physical benefits of singing and playing your heart out in private. No need to travel for those car karaoke sessions!
Screening Room – No more nagging to turn down the volume when you have your own space to “feel” the action of your favorite films at full volume.
Recreation Room – Whether she wants a private space for a game of Mahjong and a glass of wine with the girls or he longs for billiards and beer with the guys, a casita could be the ticket. Stock with board games and a wet bar.
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