Courtyards, casitas create extra private space within Tuscan Cliffs

An element of seclusion is built into the design of the homes at Tuscan Cliffs, according to David Kellen, development coordinator for Pacific Southwest Development, which is building the guard-gated neighborhood within the Southern Highlands community.

"One of the prominent design features of our floor plans at Tuscan Cliffs is the front and central courtyards," Kellen said.

Casitas, porticos and courtyards leading to the front entries of most homes at Tuscan Cliffs form a separation from the street, which enhances individual privacy, Kellen said.

The Villa De Rafael design features a front courtyard accessed by a turret-shaped portico. The design is bounded by a two-story casita, an office and the front of the main residence. A central water feature is the main focal point of the courtyard, which also includes a ramada with fireplace. A decorative curved staircase leads up to the second-story casita, while the level-one casita is modeled as a wine grotto designed for entertaining.

Disappearing glass doors allow the living room to open to the courtyard. The office, which is connected to the main residence, features separate access to the courtyard. Stacked stone, matching flooring and other decorative touches unite the spaces.

The Villa De Giovanni and Villa De Gabriella feature similar layouts.

The Villa De Franchesca is accented by a deep front patio and casita, leading to the entry and a side courtyard.

A variety of configurations allow casitas to be used as separate living quarters, entertainment areas, offices, billiards rooms or exercise rooms.

"The courtyard casita is one of our signature features," Kellen said. "Not only does it serve as a bonus area, but it changes the relation of the home to the street and by its very presence turns the courtyard into an extension of the interior space. It changes the entire feel of the residence, making it more like a secluded resort."

Tuscan Cliffs features customizable estates on lots measuring one-quarter acre or larger. Premium home sites, including mountainside parcels in future phase releases, are available.

Four two-story models are open for tours at the neighborhood. Floor plans range from 4,328 to 5,441 square feet. Various design options can bring the homes to 6,000 square feet.

Standard amenities include paver stone driveways, sand-finished stucco exteriors, stainless steel appliances, 42-inch maple cabinets, granite countertops, 6-foot garden tubs, wood-clad Andersen windows, Kohler plumbing fixtures and structured wiring systems.

Each residence qualifies as an Energy Star home. Base prices range from $1.05 million to $1.25 million.

To visit, take Interstate 15 to the St. Rose Parkway exit and go west. Drive north on Southern Highlands Parkway and proceed to Stonewater Lane, then turn left and follow the signs.

Office hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, except Monday when it opens at 1 p.m. For more information, call the sales office phone at 228-8559 or visit pacificsouthwest.com.