Luxury Remodel in Tucson’s Historic Colonia Solana with Casita

After helping numerous families relocate to Tucson, we've found that finding a home that perfectly marries historic charm with modern luxury, especially with the added benefit of an acre lot and a dedicated casita, is incredibly rare. The Tucson area offers a diverse real estate market, but properties like the one we recently toured in the historic Colonia Solana neighborhood truly stand out as exceptional, priced at $1.795 million.

In our experience living and working here, this kind of meticulous, head-to-toe remodel in an established, central Tucson location offers a unique value proposition that new construction often can't match. We often see trends come and go, but this home's design choices ensure it will remain timeless and appealing for years to come, making it a smart investment for those seeking lasting quality.

In this guide, we'll take you deeper inside this stunning property, highlighting its designer features, exploring the resort-style backyard and versatile casita, and breaking down why Colonia Solana remains one of Tucson's most desirable places to live. We’ll also compare its pricing to other luxury homes in the 85716 zip code, helping you understand what this level of quality and location truly offers.

A Glimpse into Tucson's Historic Luxury Living

This home offers a unique blend of timeless charm and modern sophistication, meticulously remodeled from top to bottom. Spanning 3,581 sq ft in the main house, complemented by a generous 600 sq ft guest casita, this five-bedroom, five-bathroom estate sits on a sprawling acre lot in the coveted Colonia Solana neighborhood.

From the moment you step inside, you're greeted by seamless wood plank tile flooring that flows throughout the entire house, creating a cohesive and elegant feel. The designers focused on creating spaces that are updated yet not overly trendy, ensuring the home's aesthetic will endure. This approach allows the classic charm of the 1952 build to shine through, while offering all the conveniences and luxury of a brand-new residence.

The Main Residence: A Blend of Elegance and Functionality

The main home is designed for both comfortable daily living and grand entertaining, with distinct areas that offer privacy and purpose.

Dedicated Office/Den: Right off the main entry, you'll find a beautiful, moody office or den space. It features rich green paint, built-in shelves, a private exit to the side yard, and even a charming wood-burning fireplace, perfect for a library or a focused workspace.
Gracious Living and Dining Areas: The entry opens to a formal dining room, a main formal living room, and the kitchen, strategically separated yet flowing. The formal living room boasts pitched ceilings with painted wood beams, creating a monochromatic and transitional look. We love how this layout keeps entertaining spaces distinct, preventing guests from wandering into private areas.
Three-Car Garage with Modern Touches: The fully finished three-car garage is a standout, featuring an epoxy floor, new panels, and even an EV port—a thoughtful addition we rarely see in remodeled homes. This foresight adds significant value for electric vehicle owners.

Culinary Excellence: The Designer Kitchen & Butler's Pantry

The heart of this home is undoubtedly the kitchen, a true masterpiece of design and functionality.

Gourmet Kitchen: It features a 10-foot island topped with quartz countertops, illuminated by unique designer light fixtures we haven't seen elsewhere. The handmade tile backsplash is a pure designer touch, showcasing custom work. A beautiful hood vent sits above a 48-inch gas range, complemented by soft-close cabinets and a beverage fridge. Undermount lighting on the island, cabinets, and floating shelves adds warmth and sophistication.
Hidden Butler's Pantry: One of the home's best surprises is the hidden butler's pantry. This awesome space includes KitchenAid appliances (oven, microwave, dishwasher), a second sink, and ample cabinet space, all finished with the same beautiful designer tile. It's perfect for catering, holiday prep, or simply keeping main kitchen clutter out of sight, making entertaining a breeze.

Thoughtful Bedroom Layouts and Spa-Like Retreats

This home features a true split floor plan, offering privacy for the primary suite while still providing convenient access to other areas.

Guest Accommodations: There are three well-appointed guest bedrooms. The third guest bedroom even has its own private access to a spacious side yard, ideal for pets or a tranquil garden. Each guest bathroom is uniquely designed, sharing cohesive colors but featuring distinct elements like mixed-match hardware (black and brushed gold) and beautiful tile work in the walk-in showers. "The bathrooms are similar, but they're not the same. They chose different stuff," we observed, highlighting the custom thought put into each space.
Primary Suite Oasis: The primary suite is a dream, featuring a spa-like ensuite. It boasts a stunning walk-in shower with two wands and two showerheads, a beautiful standalone soaking tub with a designer light fixture, and an extended double vanity with quartz countertops and ample lighting. We particularly appreciate the walk-through laundry room directly into the custom-cabinet master closet, providing seamless access without having to traverse the entire house. The primary bedroom itself is minimalistic, with abundant natural light and a slider leading directly to the backyard patio, offering effortless indoor-outdoor living. This indoor-outdoor flow is further explored in Inside This Completely REMODELED LUXURY Tucson Home with Mountain Views! [Catalina Foothills AZ], where we showcase similar design philosophies.
Main Living Room & Powder Room: The main living room is centered around a massive limestone-washed fireplace, which we consider a masterpiece. It features a 16 ft slider leading to the patio, enhancing the indoor-outdoor connection. A conveniently located powder room with its own backyard entrance is perfect for pool guests, preventing wet footprints through the house.

The Resort-Style Backyard and Versatile Casita

The outdoor spaces of this property are truly exceptional, offering a private resort experience right at home.

Acre Lot & Outdoor Living: Situated on an acre lot, the property provides ample space and privacy from neighbors. The expanded patio, featuring beautiful travertine flooring and elegant wood plank ceilings with beams, is perfect for year-round enjoyment. The turf areas add to the low-maintenance luxury.
Entertainer's Pool & Fire Pit: The stunning pool is perfectly positioned to receive sunshine all day, complete with an awesome water feature and a fire pit—ideal for entertaining, pool parties, or quiet evenings under the stars.
The Exceptional Casita:
This 600 sq ft casita is one of the best we've seen. It boasts its own private entrance and driveway, making it truly standalone. Inside, you'll find a full kitchen with a gas range, hood, quartz countertops, a deep sink, and a full-size refrigerator. There's also a living room, a coat closet, and a dedicated space for a stackable washer and dryer. The bedroom features tall ceilings and a slider to the backyard. The bathroom continues the home's luxurious finishes with quartz countertops, a walk-in shower, and a skylight. This casita offers incredible versatility, whether for rental income, accommodating in-laws, or providing a private space for a university student, given its proximity to the University of Arizona. For those considering other luxury options with acreage, Inside This NEW Custom LUXURY Home on ACREAGE in Tucson’s Top Suburb! [Dove Mountain AZ]
provides another excellent perspective on spacious living in Tucson's top suburbs.

Why Colonia Solana is a Prime Tucson Location

Colonia Solana stands out as one of central Tucson's most desirable historic neighborhoods due to its established character and unparalleled access to amenities.

Recreational Hub: The neighborhood is a hot spot for activities, directly adjacent to Reid Park. Here, you'll find the Reid Park Zoo, High Corbett Field (home to University of Arizona baseball), two 18-hole city golf courses, and an expansive walking path. It's perfect for staying active and enjoying Tucson's beautiful weather.
Unbeatable Convenience: This central location means you're never far from anything you need:
Downtown Tucson: Less than a 10-minute drive via Country Club Road and Broadway Boulevard. Enjoy shows, Ice Cats hockey, or a vibrant date night at any of the amazing downtown restaurants.
University of Arizona: Also less than 10 minutes away, making it an ideal commute for faculty, students, or those attending basketball games.
Elcon Area: Less than a 5-minute drive, this area on Broadway Boulevard caters to all your daily needs. It includes Target, Walmart Super Center, a movie theater, In-N-Out Burger, Home Depot, PetSmart, Chick-fil-A, Starbucks, Portillo's (for great hot dogs and Chicago subs), and Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen.
Local Dining Gems: Just across the street, you'll find Local, one of our favorite Italian restaurants. Other nearby favorites include Sushi Garden, Barrio Bread (a local Tucson staple), Natural Grocer, a Pilates studio, a dessert shop, a pizza place, Rocco's (for pizza and wings), and Ethiopian cuisine. "You won't run out of options on where should we eat tonight or what should we get for dinner," we often tell clients.
Grocery & Retail: A Whole Foods Market is conveniently located 5-7 minutes down Country Club Road. Further down Broadway Road, about 5-7 minutes away, is Park Place Mall, offering additional shopping, restaurants (like Guadalajara Grill, Barnes & Noble, Olive Garden, Texas Roadhouse, Sweet Tomatoes), a movie theater, World Market, and Dick's Sporting Goods.
Healthcare Access: You are very close to major medical facilities. Banner Health is about a 10-minute drive near the University of Arizona, and Tucson Medical Center (TMC) is approximately a 15-minute drive away. Numerous urgent care centers are also in the immediate vicinity.
Travel Made Easy: Tucson International Airport is less than a 15-minute drive, making travel incredibly convenient. For those considering new construction options beyond central Tucson, INSIDE Semi-Custom LUXURY Homes Near Tucson from the $600Ks! [Dove Mountain AZ] offers a look at luxury living in other popular areas.

Understanding Luxury Home Pricing in Central Tucson (85716)

What can you expect to pay for luxury homes in the 85716 zip code, and how does our featured property compare? The market for high-end, remodeled homes in historic central Tucson is unique.

Our featured listing, located at Via Guadalupe, is priced at $1.795 million. It offers an acre of land, 3,851 sq ft in the main house, plus a 600 sq ft casita, all fully remodeled with timeless charm. Originally built in 1952, it retains its character while offering a practically brand-new interior. This blend of history and modern luxury is a significant draw.

To provide perspective, here's a comparison of luxury homes currently available or recently sold in the same 85716 zip code:

Property: Featured Home (Colonia Solana)

Price Sq Ft (Main): $1.795M38511

Lot Size: acre

Year Built: 1952

Style/Features: Fully remodeled, casita, resort pool

Property: Urban Style Home (3rd St)

Price Sq Ft (Main): $525K1800

Lot Size: Smaller

Year Built: 2007

Style/Features: Brand new, urban style, 3 bed/2 bath

Property: Arroyo Chico Home

Price Sq Ft (Main): $1.6M29891+

Lot Size: acre

Year Built: 1957

Style/Features: Territorial, updated, wood ceilings, pool

Property: El Encanto Home

Price Sq Ft (Main): $2.799M5720

Lot Size: Just under 1 acre

Year Built: 1934

Style/Features: Historic, classic, designated space, no pool

As you can see, the featured home at $1.795 million offers exceptional value for its comprehensive remodel, substantial square footage, acre lot, and included casita, especially when compared to other high-end properties in the area. For example, a larger historic home in El Encanto, another popular historic neighborhood, can command nearly a million dollars more, even without a pool.

Key Takeaways

Unmatched Historic Luxury: This Colonia Solana home offers 3,581 sq ft of fully remodeled living space, blending 1950s charm with designer modern finishes, a rare find in central Tucson.
Versatile Casita & Acre Lot: The 600 sq ft casita with its own entrance and full kitchen, plus a sprawling acre lot with a resort-style pool, provides exceptional flexibility for guests, rentals, or multi-generational living.
Central Tucson Convenience: Located in the 85716 zip code, the property is less than 10 minutes from Downtown Tucson and the University of Arizona, and under 5 minutes from major retail at the Elcon area.
High-End Features: From handmade kitchen tiles and a hidden butler's pantry to an EV charging port and a spa-like primary bath, no expense was spared in this $1.795 million renovation, ensuring timeless elegance and modern functionality.

Should You Invest in a Historic Tucson Remodel with a Casita?

A historic Tucson remodel with a casita might be right for you if you prioritize:

The unique character and charm of an established, historic neighborhood like Colonia Solana.
A fully updated, luxury living experience without the upkeep of an older, unrenovated home.
The flexibility of a separate casita for rental income, multi-generational living, or a private home office.
A large, private acre lot with resort-style amenities, offering a tranquil retreat.
Proximity to central Tucson's vibrant amenities, including dining, entertainment, and the University of Arizona.

A new construction home or a different area might be better if you prioritize:

A purely modern aesthetic with no historic elements.
Specific new community amenities or HOA-managed landscapes.
Living in a master-planned community further from the city center.
A lower price point, potentially sacrificing lot size or a casita.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the benefits of living in a historic Tucson neighborhood like Colonia Solana?

A: Living in a historic Tucson neighborhood like Colonia Solana offers a unique blend of established charm, larger lots (often an acre or more), and mature landscaping. These areas provide a sense of community and character often missing in newer developments. You're also typically closer to central amenities, like Downtown Tucson and the University of Arizona, as highlighted by this stunning remodel's location.

Q: How does the cost of a luxury remodel in central Tucson compare to new construction?

A: While new construction can offer brand-new everything, a luxury remodel in central Tucson, especially in historic neighborhoods, often provides a blend of irreplaceable character with modern finishes. As seen with our featured $1.795 million home, these properties can command similar or even higher prices than new builds, particularly when they include features like an acre lot and a casita, which are harder to find in new developments. The value comes from the unique combination of location, space, and bespoke design.

Q: What kind of return on investment can I expect from a property with a casita in Tucson?

A: A property with a dedicated casita in Tucson, particularly in a desirable central location like Colonia Solana, can offer excellent return on investment. The casita can generate significant rental income, provide flexible guest accommodations, or serve as a valuable home office or studio. This added versatility and income potential can increase the property's overall market value and appeal to a broader range of buyers, making it a strong asset in the Tucson real estate market.

Q: What are the best schools in the Tucson Unified School District for families in central Tucson?

A: For families considering central Tucson, the Tucson Unified School District serves areas like Colonia Solana. Specific schools mentioned for this location include Robinson Elementary, Mansfield Middle School, and Tucson High School, which is a B-rated school and one of the largest high schools in Southern Arizona. We always recommend doing your own research on resources like Niche.com, as school performance can vary and individual needs differ.

Q: How accessible are amenities from Colonia Solana?

A: Colonia Solana boasts exceptional accessibility to a wide array of amenities. As we showed, this neighborhood is less than 10 minutes from Downtown Tucson and the University of Arizona, and under 5 minutes from major shopping and dining at the Elcon area, which includes Target, Walmart, numerous restaurants, and more. Even Whole Foods is just a 5-7 minute drive away, making daily errands and entertainment incredibly convenient.

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