Next Step Unveils Conceptual Design For Adam’s Way In Doylestown

DOYLESTOWN, PA — The Next Step Programs (TNS) on Friday unveiled its conceptual design and rendering of Adam’s Way, the future home of its integrated housing and marketplace initiative on South Clinton Street.

The envisioned community, as shown in the conceptual rendering by Union Studio, is designed to bring people with and without disabilities together in a shared, welcoming environment that will include residential housing on the upper floors, a commercial marketplace at street level, and community programming.

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Community members played a key role in shaping the concept design, sharing their ideas and priorities with Union Studio during a community programming session last September. The collaborative process focused on understanding what types of spaces and features would best support those who will live in and engage with Adam’s Way.

The conceptual plans for Adam's Way on South Clinton Street.

By actively listening to community input, the design team was able to incorporate meaningful feedback into the early concept plans. The approach reflected a strong commitment to inclusivity and it ensured that the design aligned with the Next Step's mission of providing a welcoming community where everyone feels a true sense of belonging.

“Housing availability and options for those with disabilities remains limited in our community and beyond. About a year ago, I asked ChatGPT to build me a graphic where people with and without disabilities could live together in the heart of their community. Today, we unveil an architecturally designed rendering that represents what could be Adam’s Way. We are eager to keep the project moving forward,” says Josh Fields, Executive Director.

Now that the property has been acquired and the conceptual design created, TNS is moving to the next phase of Adam’s Way - funding the project and land-use planning. The conceptual design brings the community one step closer to realizing its vision of a fully inclusive housing solution.

To donate to the forward progress of Adam’s Way and to find more information, visit tnsprograms.org/vision today.

Rooted in integration, independence, everyday life, and belonging, Adam’s Way will reflect The Next Step’s long-standing commitment to inclusive design and meaningful access beyond minimum standards.

The project is designed to prioritize accessibility, safety, and flexibility while remaining open and connected to the broader community, said Fields. Shared spaces will encourage social connection, skill-building, and employment opportunities, supporting both residents and visitors in meaningful ways.

Why is it named Adam’s Way?

Adam’s Way is named in honor of TNS participant Adam Sklar, who was a Bucks County resident and lived with Prader-Willi Syndrome. Adam’s life and presence within the TNS community reflected the very values this project is meant to uphold. He was known for his kindness, his ability to form meaningful connections, and the way he brought people together. His story highlights both the power of inclusive
community and the need for long-term, supportive housing that allows individuals with disabilities to live full, connected, and independent lives as adults.

The Next Step Programs is a nonprofit founded in 2015 that supports young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities as they transition to independence.

Serving families across southeast Pennsylvania, TNS provides life skills instruction, social programming, and job preparation that empower individuals to lead meaningful, connected lives in their community.

In 2025, TNS launched its
innovative housing project to lead the community in the development of the first of its kind inclusive community.