The idea of enhancing health, wellness and productivity by connecting nature to the built environment has begun gaining traction across the globe. The concept is called biophilic design and is being pioneered in select innovative communities worldwide.

Perhaps the most notable is Serenbe, an award-winning biophilic village that brings people close to nature and one another. Situated in the Chattahoochee Hills region southwest of Atlanta, the 1,000-acre community is home to hundreds of people whose residences are spread across four different hamlets.

Only 30% of the land in this “urban village” is slated for development, the rest destined to remain untouched. A 25-acre organic farm provides fresh food, sold at a seasonal Saturday farmers’ market. The community also prioritizes art and culture, hosting regional theater, film series, culinary workshops, music events and more.

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