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Serenbe: A Nature-Driven Community

On August 27, 2025, Zonda declared Serenbe, an innovative community situated just outside Atlanta, as the recipient of the prestigious Masterplan of the Year award. The award is a part of BUILDER's Future Place event scheduled to take place from October 27 to 29 at the Ritz-Carlton Resort, Irving, Texas. It was an occasion to spotlight developers dedicated to respecting the land while enhancing its inherent value through astute planning.

Jeff Meyers, CEO of Zonda, emphasized the importance of such developments, stating, "The Masterplan of the Year was launched last year to showcase leading developers who recognize the vital importance of respect for the land — with the intent of enhancing its value through thoughtful planning." He highlights Serenbe’s unique approach, which is rooted in a deep understanding of how our intrinsic connection to nature can influence the way we live harmoniously within it.

A Home in Harmony with Nature

Residents of Serenbe cherish their close relationship with the environment. Monica Olsen, a representative from the community, comments, "Buyers in our community understand that connection to nature is important for their well-being. Our conservation areas are all natural and not mere parks. Our main goal is to educate both children and adults on appreciating nature rather than fearing it."

The inception of Serenbe traces back to Steve Nygren, a restaurateur and hospitality developer. In the 1990s, he observed how his daughters preferred the countryside over urban life, igniting an inspiration that would lead him to create a community integrating art, agriculture, education, and wellness. Fast forward three decades, and Serenbe now boasts a robust population of over 1,000 residents across 1,200 acres, with a remarkable 70% designated as conservation land.

Nygren proudly states, "We're re-establishing an agrarian economy and becoming a national think tank on regenerative agriculture." He shared with BUILDER, "The term ‘agrihood’ was actually coined here by a New York Times reporter. We were the first to really do it this way—bringing the farm to the people."

What is an Agrihood?

For those unfamiliar, an agrihood refers to master-planned communities replete with community gardens, farm stands, cooking classes, farm events, and nature-inspired living as an integral lifestyle. Serenbe exemplifies this concept beautifully, offering its residents the chance to engage with their environment actively.

As part of the recognition at the upcoming Future Place event, Steve Nygren and the Serenbe community will be featured in BUILDER Magazine's Q3 edition, specifically in the