Expanding the Village at A New Leaf

Phase II of The Village at A New Leaf campus builds on the success of Phase I with a thoughtful expansion that enhances residential options, community amenities, and recreational opportunities—all while maintaining a cohesive architectural identity.

Residential Buildings
Located at the northwest corner of the site, Phase II introduces two new residential buildings designed as tax credit projects. The first is a two-story, 53-unit multifamily apartment building arranged around a central courtyard. Each unit includes a private patio or balcony, and the building features a shared Fitness Room that doubles as a tornado-rated storm shelter. The landscaped courtyard serves as the heart of the building, with shade trees, a circular lawn, and a community fire pit encouraging social connection and outdoor gathering.

The second residential building is a 6-bedroom Community Home, modeled closely after similar homes developed in Phase I. This home features a large, open-concept living and dining area with an adjacent kitchen centered around a generous island, promoting shared living and interaction among residents. Both buildings reflect the design aesthetic established in Phase 1, featuring gabled roofs, white fiber cement siding, earth-toned stone accents, and welcoming front porches framed by gracious columns.

Expanding Community and Recreation for Adults with Developmental Disabilities

Community Center Expansion
In addition to the new housing, Phase 2 includes an approximately 4,500-square-foot expansion of the existing cafeteria building to create a new Community Center. This addition will include a half-court basketball gym, a fitness room, a gaming room, and a flexible conference/meeting space. The design continues the red metal building language of the original structure and adds an inviting full-length front porch to encourage gathering and community interaction.

Outdoor Recreation & Connectivity
The expanded facilities are designed to integrate seamlessly with the existing campus amenities. New walking trails and a shared dog park connect the residential buildings with outdoor spaces, while landscape enhancements in front of the Community Center form a vibrant recreational node. This area will include pickleball courts, bocce ball, and cornhole, all thoughtfully integrated with the community gardens and existing pavilion to create a campus that supports wellness, inclusion, and daily joy.

Together, these additions reinforce A New Leaf’s mission by providing safe, beautiful, and engaging environments for residents to live, connect, and thrive.

FAQ: The Village at A New Leaf Phase II

Q: What is Phase II of The Village at A New Leaf?

A: Phase II expands The Village at A New Leaf in Owasso, OK, increasing access to safe and affordable housing for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Building on the success of Phase I, the expansion grows the residential community while strengthening opportunities for job training, social connection, and independent living.

Q: Why was the Village created?

A: The Village was developed in response to a significant need for housing options designed specifically for adults with developmental disabilities. Many individuals face limited access to safe, affordable housing and supportive services. The Village provides an alternative path—combining residential living with vocational training and community engagement.

Q: How many residents will the Village serve after Phase II?

A: When Phase II is complete, The Village will be able to house more than 130 residents, more than doubling the capacity established in Phase I. Demand for the community remains high, with hundreds of individuals currently on the waiting list.

Q: What types of housing are included in Phase II?

A: Phase II expands the Village with additional residential options designed to support a range of needs and levels of independence. The new phase introduces a larger multifamily courtyard apartment building while continuing the neighborhood character established in the original development.

Q: What new amenities are included in the expansion?

A: Phase II adds a variety of outdoor gathering and recreation spaces that strengthen the neighborhood feel of the campus. These include:

– A dog park

– Pickleball courts

– Bocce ball courts

– A cornhole lawn

– Additional outdoor gathering spaces

These amenities encourage daily activity, social interaction, and a stronger sense of community among residents.

Q: How does the Village support employment and job training?

A: Vocational training is central to A New Leaf’s mission. Horticulture programs allow residents and program participants to learn how to grow plants and develop retail skills through garden centers and agricultural programs. These experiences provide meaningful employment opportunities while connecting residents with the broader community.

Q: Will Phase II support programs beyond residential housing?

A: Yes. Future programming associated with Phase II includes educational space designed to serve up to 100 additional participants who may not live at The Village but can access vocational and life-skills training programs on campus.

Q: How does the design support independence and dignity?

A: The Village is designed as a walkable neighborhood where residents can live, work, and connect with others. Residential buildings, outdoor gathering spaces, gardens, and walking paths work together to create an environment that encourages independence while maintaining access to support and community.

Q: What was Narrate Design’s role in the project?

A: Narrate Design partnered with A New Leaf to shape The Village as a mission-driven community where architecture supports opportunity and independence. Phase II builds on lessons from the original development, refining the Village concept while expanding housing, accessibility, and shared spaces for residents.