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A casita, literally a separate "little house," is a popular option at Sunrise Colony Co.'s age-qualified Siena development in Summerlin.

"These guesthouses are sometimes called `mother-in-law' quarters, but at Siena they are more likely to be for the visiting children and grandchildren," Kathy Stypowany, assistant manager of the on-site design studio, said.

"As we all know, Las Vegans get a lot of out-of-town house guests and it's nice for them to have quarters with a private entrance and bath. But at Siena we see casitas also being used for home offices, exercise rooms, game rooms, home theaters or hobby rooms."

Five collections of single-story, detached homes are available at the guard-gated development. Fourteen floor plans ranging from 1,200 to 3,000 square feet are offered. Homes in the 665-acre project are priced from the mid-$150,000s to $450,000.

A 240-square-foot casita comes with Plan 8120, a 3,192-square-foot home. A 227-square-foot casita is optional with Plan 7120, a 2,305-square-foot home. All of the casitas are attached and have a separate, outdoor entrance.

Consultants in the sales and design center can assist buyers in selecting counter tops and window coverings, among other features. A new tool at the studio is a computer program that can provide virtual model tours and show various design options.

The community's elevation and location provide views of the Spring Mountains, the Strip and the community's 18-hole championship golf course. Residents receive special rates and preferred tee times at the course, which is open to the public.

The fitness center, slated to open in late fall, will have exercise equipment, a wellness center, saunas, steam rooms, massage rooms and a 25-meter indoor lap pool.

To visit, take Sahara Avenue to Town Center Drive and turn south. Proceed past Desert Inn Road and follow the signs. Models are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

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