Serenbe: A Biophilic Community Shaping the Future of Sustainable Living

When I attended the Biophilic Leadership Summit in Serenbe, Georgia, in late April, I expected to dive into discussions with experts from fields like architecture, landscape design, horticulture, and urban planning. These professionals were all focused on the growing movement of biophilic design—an approach that seeks to integrate nature into our built environment. The summit brought together big ideas, and ideas that, in many cases, are already transforming communities, with the goal of addressing the challenges between housing, health, and the environment.

Biophilic design is based on the theory that humans are naturally drawn to nature, and that our well-being, productivity, and happiness are significantly improved when we’re surrounded by it. This concept, stemming from social ecologist Stephen Kellert’s work and Edward O. Wilson’s 1984 book Biophilia, advocates for designs that go beyond simply incorporating nature into buildings. It aims to create holistic spaces where nature is not just present, but woven into the very fabric of our daily experience.

Serenbe is a shining example of this approach, showcasing how biophilic design can be applied to create sustainable, healthy communities. Founded by Steve Nygren and Marie Lupo Nygren in 2004, Serenbe is both a vision for the future and a successful model of biophilic living. With its network of homes, small businesses, parks, community centers, and even a working farm, Serenbe is a vibrant community that feels like stepping into a charming English countryside village, yet it’s thoroughly modern in its approach to architecture and urban planning.

What sets Serenbe apart is its commitment to preserving nature while creating a sustainable, walkable community. The land is carefully managed, with a 70/30 ratio that ensures 70% of the area remains protected from development, while only 30% is developed. This balance minimizes human impact on the environment and fosters a lifestyle that prioritizes walking, biking, and spontaneous social interactions—an intentional design decision to reduce reliance on cars.

As you explore Serenbe on foot, it’s impossible not to feel connected to the natural world. With 16 miles of nature trails, the community invites its residents to experience nature on a daily basis. The design of Serenbe incorporates “sacred geometry,” with recurring patterns and shapes—like the Fibonacci Spiral—that you’ll notice in the community’s layout and architecture. These subtle design elements reinforce the feeling that the space is in harmony with nature.

Serenbe’s planning challenges conventional suburban development, offering higher density housing options in a variety of forms. From large single-family homes to multi-story condos and senior housing, Serenbe offers a mix of living spaces that encourage an intergenerational community. Some sections even evoke the charm of old European cities, with narrow cobblestone paths and bridges creating a walkable, intimate atmosphere.

However, despite its successes, Serenbe is not without its challenges. The community’s lack of socio-economic and racial diversity is something Nygren acknowledges. In response, Serenbe is working to introduce affordable housing options to address the needs of a broader demographic, in hopes of preventing suburban sprawl.

One of Serenbe’s most striking features is the seamless transition between residential spaces and the surrounding natural landscape. Walkways and stairs connect homes to nature, while trees, understory plants, and curving sightlines define the community rather than rigid grid patterns. This soft integration between the built environment and nature creates a sense of flow, where public and private spaces blend organically.

What began as a 60-acre farm bought by the Nygrens in 1991 as a retreat from urban life has evolved into a compelling case for a new way of living. Serenbe demonstrates how biophilic design can serve as a foundation for a better, healthier lifestyle. It has garnered attention as a model for future communities, inspiring new developments that integrate environmental sustainability with walkability and community-focused planning.

Serenbe’s charm is found not only in its architecture and natural beauty but in the little surprises tucked throughout the community. Public art is found in unexpected corners and hidden spaces, including behind the Blue Eyed Daisy Bakeshop, home to the smallest Silver LEED-certified building in the nation. Nearby, a chalkboard wall filled with messages from visitors and residents adds a personal touch to the communal spaces, while shaded woodland paths invite exploration. Getting lost and finding your way through Serenbe seems to be part of the experience—a reminder that life, like nature, thrives in fluidity and connection.

Serenbe is an experiment in living that shows what’s possible when design is grounded in respect for nature. Its success may not be a perfect utopia, but it’s an inspiring glimpse into what the future of housing, health, and the environment could look like when thoughtfully designed for sustainability and human connection.