What is a casita?
In practice, a casita is a small detached structure built on the same property as the main home. How it can be finished and used depends on the design, the utilities, and the requirements that apply to that specific property.
Is a casita the same as an ADU?
Not automatically. "ADU" is a regulatory classification that carries specific requirements and permitted uses, and it varies by jurisdiction. Many casitas are designed as flexible non-dwelling spaces instead. What your property allows has to be confirmed during planning — we don't assume it up front.
Can a casita include a bathroom?
Often, yes — but it isn't automatic. It depends on plumbing access, utilities, property conditions, permitting, intended use and project scope. We evaluate feasibility during design.
Can it include a kitchenette?
Sometimes. A kitchenette or wet bar depends on the same utility and permitting factors as a bathroom, and in some jurisdictions certain fixtures affect how the structure is classified. We work through that during planning.
Can it be used as a guest room?
Depending on the property, local requirements, utilities, and intended use, a casita can support guest space. We won't promise full-time residential, rental or short-term rental use — that has to be verified for your specific property and jurisdiction.
Can it be used as a home office?
A dedicated workspace separated from household activity is one of the most common reasons homeowners build a casita. Design decisions around light, power, acoustics and comfort matter a lot for this use.
Can it be built near a pool?
Often, yes. Placement near a pool depends on setbacks, deck circulation, drainage, equipment locations and the requirements that apply to your property.
Can it include heating and cooling?
Where the design includes conditioned space, yes — insulation, HVAC and ventilation are planned together during design rather than added afterward.
Can you match the architecture of my home?
That's the goal. We study rooflines, materials, proportions, windows and trim on the existing home and design the structure to belong on the property.
Do casitas require permits?
Requirements vary by property, municipality and project scope. As part of qualifying design-build projects, we determine what applies and coordinate the permitting process.
Do you handle engineering?
Yes. Where a project requires structural engineering, we coordinate it as part of the design-build scope.
Can you help with HOA requirements?
Yes. Where a neighborhood requires architectural review, we prepare and coordinate the drawings and documentation needed for submission.
How do you determine where the structure can go?
We work through setbacks, easements, utilities, drainage, trees, access, grading, sightlines and privacy before elevations are drawn. There are no universal numeric rules — placement is specific to your property and jurisdiction.
Can you create 3D plans first?
Yes. Design is the first phase of our process, and for appropriate projects we develop 3D visualizations so you can see the structure before committing to construction.
