Since the start of 2025, more and more homeowners in Arizona have been taking advantage of the state’s new casita law, which allows for the construction of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) or casitas on properties in cities with populations over 75,000.
This law gives families a meaningful way to keep loved ones close while also offering the option to create rental income.
As the demand for flexible living spaces grows, homeowners in Mesa are increasingly turning to experienced casita builders to help bring their ideas to life.
At Mariano & Co., we’re excited to guide you through the process of designing a stylish and functional guest house.
In this blog post, we’ll cover the key steps to creating the perfect casita for your property.
Let’s get started with this handy guide to guest house designs.
Why Build a Guest House or Casita?
Building a guest house or casita on your property offers several practical benefits that can enhance both your living space and your financial situation.
First, it provides additional space for family members, whether it’s for aging parents who need to be close but still want their independence or adult children who are starting out on their own.
This extra living area can help families stay connected while maintaining privacy.
In addition to family use, casitas can serve as rental units, providing a steady income stream.
With the growing demand for rental properties, especially in areas like Mesa, a casita can be an attractive option for tenants looking for affordable, independent living spaces.
It also adds value to your home, which can be a significant benefit if you decide to sell in the future.
Moreover, a casita can offer flexibility for your lifestyle, whether you want a home office, art studio, or guest suite for visitors.
The possibilities are truly endless!
The Casita Design Process
The design process for a guest house or casita involves several important steps to ensure your vision comes to life as it’s intended.
From the initial consultation to pre-construction meetings, each stage plays a crucial role in bringing your dream space into reality.
Here’s an overview of what to expect when working with Mariano & Co., your trusted casita builder in Mesa.
Initial Consultation
The first step in the design process is the initial consultation—an essential step where you’ll meet with the expert team at Mariano & Co. to explore your vision, goals, and aspirations for the project.
Whether you’re planning to create a private retreat for extended family or a thoughtfully designed rental unit, this is your opportunity to share what matters most to you. We’ll listen closely to understand not just how you want the space to look, but how you want it to live.
During this conversation, we’ll review your ideal budget, anticipated timeline, and any unique features or functionality you’d like to incorporate. We’ll also evaluate your property to assess opportunities and constraints, taking into account zoning requirements, lot dimensions, and local building regulations.
The purpose of this meeting is to lay a thoughtful and informed foundation, ensuring every decision that follows is aligned with your vision, your lifestyle, and the integrity of the space.
Planning and Design
With the insights gathered during your initial consultation, we now move into the planning and design phase—where inspiration begins to take form.
During this stage, our team will thoughtfully develop the architectural plans for your casita, taking into account the way you live, your personal aesthetic, and the unique characteristics of your property.
We’ll collaborate closely with you to define the layout, select materials, and curate finishes that align beautifully with both your vision and your investment goals.
Whether you’re imagining a serene one-bedroom retreat or a spacious two-bedroom guest residence, our focus is on creating a space that is both highly functional and effortlessly refined.
At this stage, Mariano & Co. will also present a detailed cost estimate and a clearly outlined project timeline—ensuring transparency, confidence, and peace of mind as we prepare to bring your casita to life.
Showroom Experience
One of the most inspiring moments in the design process is the showroom experience—where vision begins to meet tangible form.
At Mariano & Co., we invite you to explore a curated selection of materials and finishes in person. This immersive setting allows you to engage with texture, tone, and detail—bringing greater clarity and confidence to your selections.
Whether you’re considering flooring, countertops, cabinetry, or exterior elements, seeing these components firsthand offers invaluable perspective.
It’s here that you can truly begin to imagine how each material will contribute to the overall mood and functionality of your casita.
Our design professionals will be by your side throughout the experience, offering thoughtful guidance and expert insight to ensure every choice you make supports your lifestyle, your design goals, and the architectural integrity of your home
Pre-Construction Meetings
As we transition from planning to execution, the pre-construction meeting serves as a vital checkpoint in your project journey.
At this stage, you’ll meet with the team to review the finalized design plans, ensuring every detail is aligned with your expectations and vision. It’s a time to confirm selections, revisit key elements, and ask any final questions before the building process begins.
This meeting also offers a clear overview of the construction phase—covering permits, scheduling, materials, and site preparation.
Our goal is to walk you through the entire process with transparency and precision, so you feel informed and confident every step of the way.
Pre-construction meetings are about more than logistics—they set the tone for collaboration, trust, and shared understanding. It’s an essential step that ensures your casita project begins on solid footing, with every detail thoughtfully addressed before the first day on site.
The Construction Process
The construction phase is where your vision begins to take tangible form—transforming thoughtful design into a beautifully built space crafted to enhance your lifestyle.
At Mariano & Co., we approach each phase of construction with precision, intention, and a commitment to quality.
From laying the foundation to the final installation of finishes, every step is executed by skilled professionals who are dedicated to excellence.
Our team uses only trusted building practices and high-quality materials to ensure your casita or guest house is not only visually striking but also enduring, functional, and built to perform over time.
Every wall, window, and detail is measured with care and constructed with purpose.
Throughout the process, we maintain open lines of communication—providing consistent updates, addressing your questions, and ensuring you feel supported from the first day on site to final walkthrough.
We also ensure full compliance with local building codes and permitting requirements, so you can move forward with confidence.
At Mariano & Co., construction isn’t just about building—it’s about honoring your investment, your vision, and your trust in us to bring it all to life with the craftsmanship and care you deserve.
We focus on delivering a seamless experience from start to finish.
Work With A Casita Builder in Mesa
So, if you’re considering adding a guest house or casita to your property, Mariano & Co. is the casita builder in Mesa you can trust.
Whether you’re looking for Mesa home extensions to accommodate family or seeking a private rental space, our team is here to guide you through every step of guest house construction.
With our focus on quality, precision, and customer satisfaction, we ensure your project is completed to your exact specifications.
Reach out to us today to start turning your vision into reality.
Looking for a Mesa Custom Home Builder? Discover the difference of working with Mariano & Co.—a premier custom home builder known for integrity, artistry, and a truly personalized experience. We specialize in luxury custom homes, guest homes, remodels and additions tailored to your vision. Learn more today by calling us at (480) 287-4096.
