Serenbe, a biophilic community located outside of Atlanta, has been selected as the "World's Greatest Biophilic Community" by the national television series World's Greatest! The recognition, announced by the series, underscores the increasing prominence of biophilic design—an approach that integrates nature into the built environment to enhance well-being and community connection. The feature segment, filmed on location in Chattahoochee Hills, Georgia, showcases Serenbe's trails, farm, farmers market, architecture, restaurants, Inn, and streetscapes, along with interviews with founder Steve Nygren, COO Garnie Nygren, and residents. This national exposure matters because it validates a development model that prioritizes harmony between people, nature, and community, offering a counter-narrative to conventional suburban sprawl.
For years, Serenbe has served as a living laboratory for biophilic principles, and its selection by World's Greatest! signals broader interest in sustainable living solutions. The series, produced by How2Media, has been highlighting noteworthy companies and destinations for over 18 years, airing nationally and across streaming platforms. By featuring Serenbe, the program brings biophilic design into mainstream conversation, potentially influencing how developers, planners, and consumers think about housing and community. The implications are significant: as climate change and mental health crises intensify, biophilic communities like Serenbe demonstrate that development can enhance rather than deplete natural resources.
Serenbe was founded in 2004 by the Nygren family and now comprises over 800 residents living among preserved forests and meadows. Its design includes miles of nature trails connecting homes, restaurants, arts venues, and businesses. The community also boasts a working organic farm, four restaurants, a 27-room Inn, a new wellness retreat, and over 300 days of arts and cultural programming. These amenities reflect a holistic approach to well-being that could serve as a blueprint for future developments. "Serenbe was founded on the belief that development doesn't have to come at the expense of nature and that the two actually enhance one another," said Steve Nygren, Founder of Serenbe. "Being selected as the World's Greatest Biophilic Community is an exciting opportunity to share what we've learned at Serenbe and show a national audience there is a different way to think about how we build communities and live our daily lives."
The recognition comes at a time when demand for sustainable, community-oriented living options is rising. Serenbe's model addresses several contemporary challenges: it preserves green space, supports local food systems, fosters social connections, and promotes physical and mental health through access to nature. By showcasing Serenbe, World's Greatest! may accelerate the adoption of biophilic principles in real estate development. For potential residents, it offers a tangible example of a lifestyle that prioritizes well-being over mere convenience. The segment can be viewed here, and more information about Serenbe is available at Serenbe.com. As cities grapple with issues of sustainability and quality of life, Serenbe's national spotlight could inspire a shift toward more nature-integrated communities, making this recognition more than just an award—it's a catalyst for change.
