Amber Grace at Berry College

Rome, GA

Inclusive Community Design for Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

The Amber Grace Community at Berry College is a purpose-built, supportive living environment designed for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Located on the Berry College campus in Rome, Georgia, the 10-acre, master-planned community promotes independence, belonging, and lifelong connection through a thoughtfully designed residential neighborhood model.

Designed by Cooper Carry, Amber Grace provides a welcoming, non-institutional environment where residents can live independently while remaining deeply connected to their neighbors and support networks.

Village-Centered Planning that Encourages Connection and Independence

At the heart of the community is a central village green that serves as a social and physical anchor for daily life. Pedestrian pathways—designed to feel like residential streets—connect homes, shared amenities, and learning spaces, reinforcing walkability, visibility, and a strong sense of place.

Eight residential buildings are paired to create shared courtyards that encourage casual interaction and relationship-building. Each of the eight houses accommodates six neighbors and one support family, enabling residents to live together in a family-style setting. Together, the homes accommodate up to 48 adults while balancing privacy, connection, and daily support.

Supportive Housing with Thoughtfully Designed Residential Interiors

Each residence includes six individual apartment-style homes designed with sensory comfort and long-term livability in mind. Interior environments use calming materials, soft textures, and natural light to create peaceful, restorative spaces appropriate for residents’ needs. The design supports aging in place, allowing residents to build lasting relationships and remain in the community throughout different stages of life.

Community Amenities that Support Learning, Wellness, and Daily Living

The community is anchored by a multi-use community center that supports vocational training, wellness, and social engagement. Amenities include:

• Classrooms for life skills and vocational learning
• Dining hall and shared gathering spaces
• Fitness studio, multi-purpose gymnasium, and pool
• Art and creative learning spaces
• On-site healthcare and cosmetology services
• Chapel and mentorship spaces

These shared facilities empower residents to lead active, fulfilling lives while remaining connected to peers, mentors, and support staff.

A Model for Supportive Living Communities

Amber Grace was designed to balance security, oversight, and autonomy carefully—avoiding an institutional feel in favor of a warm, authentic neighborhood environment. The project serves as a replicable model for inclusive, supportive living communities that prioritize dignity, independence, and meaningful human connection.