California architect lends style to Meritage Homes ‘New Urbanist’ style neighborhoods

Home buyers have been impressed by "New Urbanism" design principles incorporated within the new Meritage Homes neighborhoods in Southern Nevada, according to sales associate Sam Di Blasi.

The neighborhoods -- City Homes, Village Homes and Estate Homes -- are all located within the Inspirada master-planned community in Henderson.

"What makes homes at Inspirada unique is the 'New Urbanism' design principles. Meritage Homes is offering a new line of award-winning designs from California-based William Hezmalhalch Architects. All floor plans are brand new to Meritage Homes, they are all exciting, and they all have a very efficient use of space," Di Blasi said.

Elements cited by newurbanism.org that are incorporated within the Meritage neighborhoods include mixed housing types located within traditional neighborhoods; quality home design that places an emphasis on aesthetics, human comfort and creating a sense of place; and pedestrian-friendly street design.

"With three distinctively styled neighborhoods offering homes that range from 1,100 to 3,400 square feet and prices starting from the $170,000s, many home shoppers are able to find a Meritage home that meets their needs in Inspirada," Di Blasi said, adding that qualified buyers may take advantage of a $500 down payment offer on select homes.

Offering a low-maintenance lifestyle is the City Homes townhome development.

"Meritage's City Homes neighborhood features townhomes with two-car, direct-access garages that are accessible from alleys, creating an aesthetically pleasing streetscape, which is an example of the New Urbanism style," Di Blasi said.

City Homes designs range from 1,110 to 1,550 square feet with one to four bedrooms and 11/2 to 21/2 baths. Among the three models priced from the $170,000s is a "New York-style" loft design that features a second-floor master suite with loft.

"We also have some units at City Homes that are studios and would be perfect for people who would like to spend weekends or vacations in Las Vegas," he said.

"Village Homes also follow New Urbanism principles with attached garages accessible by back alleys. These homes are also designed with side courtyards which offer much lower maintenance and appeal to buyers who no longer want to care for half-acre backyards."

Village Homes offers four floor plans that range from 2,207 to more than 2,900 square feet. Priced from the $270,000s, the two-story designs feature three to five bedrooms with lofts, 21/2 or three baths, dens, bonus rooms, and up to three-car garages. Three models are open.

"The Estate Homes create a completely different streetside appearance with garages located in the front of the homes," Di Blasi said.

Estate Homes features three luxury designs priced from the high $300,000s. Measuring from 3,039 to more than 3,400 square feet, they offer three to six bedrooms, 21/2 to five baths, gourmet kitchen islands, and two- and three-car tandem garages. Two model homes are open.

The Meritage neighborhoods are located within one of the seven planned villages in Inspirada. Meritage is among eight builders and developers at the nearly 2,000-acre community where as many as 13,000 homes may eventually be built.

Located outside of the Meritage neighborhoods' entry is Solista Park.

"The amenities of Solista Park are literally within a two-minute walk from the four Meritage neighborhoods. The park includes a lap pool and a family pool, community center and a small amphitheater. There's a huge children's play area, bocce ball courts, huge green areas. Retail buildings are planned nearby that will house dining and places to relax," Di Blasi said.

To visit from the Las Vegas Strip, take Interstate 15 south to St. Rose Parkway, travel east and turn south on Executive Airport Road, following the signs. Sales offices are open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily except Monday, when models open at 11 a.m. For more information, visit meritagehomes.com or call 369-6100.