Guests truly experience a home away from home when they visit the Halls in Ahwatukee, Arizona. Tri-Lite Builders, Inc., the Chandler, Arizona contractors commissioned to design and build the freestanding guest house made the Hall’s vision a reality to create a structure that would have all the amenities of home, as well as function as a retreat for their many hobbies. The contractor succeeded by creating a stylish guest house that combined beauty, comfort, and versatility.

The first challenge the contractor faced was to create a design that would provide the Hall’s with a spacious guest house that would not obstruct their dramatic view of South Mountain, and would have a minimal impact on the striking natural landscaping in their backyard. In order to retain as much of the original landscaping as possible, Tri-Lite Builders designed a full basement below the 940-square-foot cottage, creating 1,913 square feet of livable space.

Floor to ceiling, the guest house has the feeling of a cozy cabin. The rough-hewn tongue and groove planks in the ceiling are stained to match the alder wood used throughout the building. The diagonal, dark green and off black tile gives the appearance of spaciousness, and the rough finish provides a safe and easy pathway throughout the cottage. On one side of the guest house, next to the wet bar, is a rustic, floor-to-ceiling, Arizona-quarried, sandstone fireplace. 

Guests are treated to all the modern conveniences with a full functioning kitchenette, convenient utility room, bathroom with full, walk-in shower, full sized basement, and fully air-conditioned garage. 

In the guest house, a 5- by 6-foot double-pane picture window, dual rectangular windows, and two skylights provide ample light. The air conditioning system supports both the main floor and the basement, and provides a natural air passage, that brings the cooler air from the basement into the house, an added advantage in a state where 100 plus degree temperatures are the norm four months of the year.

Additional amenities include a sprinkler system, and special wiring for the computer and audiovisual equipment. The entrance to the basement is only accessible through the garage, which enables the owner to enjoy the garage and basement without disturbing their guests in the main livable area upstairs. 

At the owner’s request, Tri-Lite Builders used a relatively new wall system the owners had seen at a home show. The foam block post and beam system is unique, super durable and energy efficient. The polysteel foam block with a concrete poured center serves as a triple barrier that is a great insulator, superior sound block, and provides reduced air infiltration.

Tri-Lite Builders made sure the design of the free-standing guest house incorporated the unique specifications of its owners. “This was an exciting and interesting project,” said Wayne Minde, President of Tri-Lite Builders. “We created a unique and beautiful project and completely satisfied the wishes of a very nice couple. Whether it’s for entertaining friends and family from across the country, or simply someone walking across the yard, it was a wonderful experience to create a guest house that will be a home away from home for the Hall’s for many years to come.”

Manufacturers/Suppliers
DIV 03: Foam Block: American Polysteel.
DIV 07: Concrete Roof Tile: Monier.
DIV 08: Windows: Pella.