DESIGN MEETS ART
The 12th Annual Serenbe Showhouse
Serenbe, in partnership with Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles magazine, is proud to unveil the 12th Annual Serenbe Designer Showhouse, an annual event benefiting the Decorative Arts Fellowship with the Art Farm at Serenbe. This prestigious fellowship supports emerging and mid-career artists whose work enhances interior environments. The 2025 fellowship was awarded to Laura Deems, a contemporary abstract artist with a background in textile design, known for her bold, expressive style.
Tucked away in Serenbe’s newest hamlet, Spela, this year’s designer showhouse is an exquisite craftsman home with a perfect fusion of style, comfort, and thoughtful functionality. From the moment you step inside, the open-concept floor plan envelops you in a sense of warmth and welcome. Soaring coffered wooden ceilings with abundant natural light enhance the feeling of spaciousness, while carefully curated finishes create an atmosphere of refined elegance. The heart of the home features a gourmet kitchen that flows effortlessly into the living and dining areas, perfect for both everyday living and large enough for entertaining.
The main level offers a tranquil primary suite with a spa-like en-suite bathroom and generous walk-in closet, creating a private retreat for everyday comfort. A versatile guest room doubles as a cozy home library for quiet reading or relaxing evenings, while a nearby light-filled office provides an inspiring space for work, study, or creative projects. Upstairs, two spacious guest bedrooms each feature en-suite baths, offering privacy and comfort for visiting friends and family. Every corner of the home is thoughtfully designed to balance ease, beauty, and functionality.
Adding to the excitement surrounding this year’s Showhouse will be the installation of several pieces from artist Laura Deems, highlighting the event’s commitment to celebrating emerging talent in the creative arts. Laura Deems’ practice is rooted in her formal training in
textile design at the Lamar Dodd School of Art at the University of Georgia. Her early work with fabric dyeing, pattern weaving, and screen printing laid the foundation for a dynamic visual language centered on composition, mark-making, and color. Laura’s pieces, whether on paper, canvas, or textile, are driven by a desire to explore gesture, movement, and the expressive possibilities of pattern. In her pursuit to “free the motif from the grid,” each work becomes a fluid, intuitive design interpretation.
Based in Birmingham, Alabama, Laura shares her home and studio with her husband, Cannon, their daughter, Rowe, and their setter, Polk. Her work has been widely featured in luxury shelter publications, prominent designer showhouses, and gallery exhibitions along the East Coast. Before settling in Birmingham, Laura has lived and worked in Charleston and Atlanta, experiences that continue to inform her creative perspective.
This year’s Serenbe Designer Showhouse offers more than breathtaking interiors; it celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and community impact. Guests can tour starting September 19, thoughtfully curated spaces that blend high design with artistic expression, all while supporting the next generation of talent in the decorative arts. From inspired layouts to elegant details, the Showhouse is a must-see experience that sparks imagination and gives back. Don’t miss the chance to discover design inspiration while making a meaningful difference.
The 2025 Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles Serenbe Designer Showhouse runs September 19–October 12 in the Spela neighborhood, featuring interiors by Mister + Mrs Sharp and 14 top designers. Open Thursday through Sunday, 10 am to 4pm. A VIP Preview Party on September 18 includes early access, lite bites, drinks and live music. Proceeds support The Art Farm’s Decorative Arts Fellowship. Tickets at www.serenbeshowhouse.com
THE 2025 DESIGNERS
Bebe Mengistu Bebe M Design Studio
Yvonne McFadden Y. McFadden LLC
Dorothy McGhee McGhee Studios
Amanda Dashwood & Jillian Rook Rook & Dash
Alexander Woodcock Amulet Atelier
Lorraine Enwright Intuitive Dwellings
Leslie Wolfe Benton Parker Design
Alec Michaelides Land Plus Associates
Patrick + Meghan Sharp Mister + Mrs Sharp
Emi Mason + Ashley Potts Potts Mason Interiors
Buffy Ferguson Elizabeth Ferguson Design Studio
Cristi Rajevac Rajevac Design Studio
TOUR THE 2025 SERENBE SHOWHOUSE
The Serenbe Designer Showhouse opens for Tours, Sept 19 - Oct 12, Thursday -Sunday 10 am to 4 pm with extended hours on Fridays until 5:30 pm for Sip & Strolls.VIP Opening Party September 18 at 6 pm.
For more information and to reserve tickets, please visit serenbeshowhouse. com. Proceeds for the 12th Annual Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles Serenbe Designer Showhouse benefit the Decorative Arts Fellowship, awarded by Art Farm at Serenbe’s Special Projects Council. This year’s recipient is Laura Deems, who was in residency with The Art Farm this past August. Laura’s work will be on view at the showhouse and available for sale.
Pictured interiors from the 2024 Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles Serenbe Designer Showhouse. Bedroom 3 by Katie Moorhouse of K. Moorhouse Design Bathroom 3 by Katie Moorhouse of K. Moorhouse Design Terrace Lounge by Jimmy Stanton of Stanton Home Furnishings Bedroom 4 by Olivia Westbrooks of Olivia Westbrooks Interiors Scullery by Pamela Stakemann of South Haven
NATURE-INSPIRED PLAY
New
Spela Park Breaking Ground
This fall, Serenbe will begin work on an exciting addition to our newest neighborhood, Spela. A four-acre park has been carved out at the center of the neighborhood, designed to embrace the land’s natural topography and inviting residents and visitors alike into a landscape of exploration, connection, and play. True to the spirit of its name –Spela means “play” in Swedish – the park will serve as the heart of this playful, family-friendly neighborhood.
The land plan for Serenbe’s first hamlets, Selborne, Grange and Mado, responds to the topography and natural energy of the landscape itself. Those hamlets form an Omega or horseshoe around water features such as streams, lakes, and wetlands, anchoring community life to these natural elements. In contrast, the heart of Spela is shaped by protruding rock formations and the dramatic vista of a sloping hillside, where the forest of oaks, beeches, and red oaks cascades down toward the edge of Cedar Creek. The goal is to create a space that encourages spontaneous play, relaxed gatherings, and a connection with nature all while preserving the character of the land.
Construction will unfold in phases, with the first phase beginning this fall.This initial work will focus on establishing a trail system that traverses the entire four-acre space, winding through the natural features and creating an accessible pathway for walkers, runners, and curious kids and adults. Play equipment will also be installed this year, featuring a rocket ship slide and a classic merry-go-round. Rather than blending into the landscape, these iconic pieces are designed to stand out, evoking a sense of wonder and encouraging creativity and discovery.
During the first phase, a large, gently graded playfield will also be shaped. This flexible green space will provide the perfect area to throw a frisbee, kick a ball, enjoy a picnic, or simply
lay back and watch the clouds. It will serve as a central gathering area for informal play and neighborhood connection, an open canvas for everyday use.
Future phases will continue to enhance the park’s functionality and beauty. Plans include multiple entrances and grand steps to connect the neighborhood to the park, along with hardscape gathering spots—natural plazas where friends can meet, events can be hosted, or a quiet moment can be enjoyed. Additional play elements will be added to build on the theme of layered, evolving experiences.
Every aspect of the park is being planned with care and intention to ensure that it reflects the neighborhood’s identity and Serenbe’s broader commitment to thoughtful, environmentally integrated design. The result will be a park that doesn’t just exist in Spela but truly belongs to it; a landscape that invites participation and grows in meaning as the community is built out around it.
Spela is a neighborhood imagined around the idea of play for everyone, not just kids. Whether it’s exploring a trail, sharing a picnic, or joining a neighbor for a spontaneous sunset walk, this new park will be a place where play happens naturally and joyfully. It will be a place where the land itself encourages movement, imagination, and connection.
Spela currently has 9 homes under construction, with the first residents moving in this fall. Once complete, the neighborhood will include more than 400 homes, is zoned for Coweta County public schools, and offers access to all Serenbe amenities. Explore available homes and learn more at serenberealestate.com. Image: Inspirational rendering of the new Spela park.
SAVORING SERENBE
Where Food Meets Community
There’s something about sharing a meal in Serenbe that slows the pulse.The background noise of modern life, notifications, engines, and daily urgencies fade. In its place is wind passing through the trees, the murmur of conversation, the occasional burst of laughter. Sunlight drapes across a table set not for show, but for welcome. Here dining is more than sustenance, it’s a way of anchoring ourselves to the present moment. Something true, shared, and beautifully unhurried.
This past season, our tables told many stories. Wine pairings that transported us, dinners rooted in seasonality, and moments around a shared plate that reminded us why we gathered in the first place.
Seasonal Wine Dinners
Secret Supper: A Night Between Worlds
In May, we were host to the renowned traveling dinner series Secret Supper. They brought their magic to Serenbe’s historic Inn grounds. With the culinary artistry of Chef Jarrett Stieber from Atlanta’s Little Bear, and the distinctive wines of the Russian River Wine Growers, guests experienced a surreal blend of California terroir, Georgia beauty, and the shared wonder of a perfect spring night in Serenbe.
The real magic goes beyond the carefully curated food and setting (though both were extraordinary) – it’s the feeling of arriving somewhere deeply unfamiliar and still feeling at home. What lingered long after the final plate was cleared was the warmth of shared discovery, and the kind of joy that can only be found when we gather with intention.
Each season, The Farmhouse at Serenbe hosts wine dinners that highlight the connection between food, wine, and place. Rooted in what’s fresh and available locally, these evenings invite guests to slow down and experience the rhythm of the season. These evenings are built around discovery, drawing from seasonal ingredients and thoughtfully selected wines to create a layered, story-forward experience.The late July rosé dinner invited guests to explore a spectrum of blush colored varietals alongside live music and a vibrant menu crafted to reflect the spirit of late summer. It’s not just about sipping, it’s about celebrating what this moment in the season tastes like.
Every meal in Serenbe is shaped by what’s growing nearby and who’s gathering to enjoy it. Pause to experience the season, the people around you and join Serenbe for a spontaneous
afternoon lunch, one of the monthly tasting menus, or curate a private dinner under the stars. Food events aren’t just occasions; they’re opportunities to connect to the farmers, the chefs, and the people around the table . It’s not just good eating. It’s good company, and a good way to remember what matters.
Looking for a unique culinary experience? The Southern Chefs Potluck brings together some of the finest chefs and mixologists across the South to raise money for Georgia farmers and families. Join us on October 5th. Learn more at serenbe.com/events.
ART OVER DINNER
Visual Storytelling with Angela West & John Chiara
In the tranquil, tree-lined landscape of Serenbe, art and nature are never far apart.This unique intersection was at the heart of the latest Art Over Dinner, a signature series presented by Jackson Fine Art in partnership with The Art Farm at Serenbe, pairing intimate meals with thought-provoking conversations among artists, creatives, and community members.
On this particular evening, guests gathered to dine and dialogue with two of contemporary photography’s most compelling voices: Angela West and John Chiara. Held at Gainey Hall at Serenbe, surrounded by the artists’ photography in a gallery show hung exclusively for the dinner, the evening unfolded with the warm hum of conversation and the clinking of glasses, as guests were treated to a seasonally inspired meal honoring the surrounding land from Chef Nicolas Bour of The Farmhouse.
Yet it was the artistic dialogue—between the guests and the artists, and between the artists themselves—that made the evening truly resonant.
Angela West, an Atlanta-based photographer known for her emotionally nuanced portraits, explorations of Southern identity and mixed media landscapes, offered insight into how memory, family, and regional culture inform her work. Her photographs often inhabit a liminal space between documentation and reverie, blending intimacy with a broader sense of place.
In contrast, John Chiara, a San Francisco-based artist whose process is nothing short of alchemical, builds his own cameras — some large enough to occupy the back of a truck — to create one-of-a-kind prints directly exposed onto photographic paper. His dreamlike landscapes, often capturing the edges of cities or forgotten peripheries, evoke a sense of timelessness and tactile mystery. Chiara’s work challenges the very boundaries of photography, embracing
imperfection, experimentation, and the physicality of image-making.
Despite their differing methods, both artists share a deep sensitivity to the environments they photograph and a commitment to storytelling through visual form. Over the course of the evening, they discussed the evolution of their practices, the role of place in their creative processes, and the significance of analog techniques in an increasingly digital world. Guests were encouraged to ask questions, reflect on their own connections to place and memory, and engage directly with the artists in a relaxed, communal setting. It was an evening that highlighted not just the work of two remarkable artists, but also the power of conversation to deepen our experience of art.
As night settled over Serenbe, what lingered was more than just the taste of a beautiful meal — it was a feeling of connection, inspiration, and a renewed appreciation for the role art plays in how we see the world and each other.
At Serenbe, we often talk about art not just as something to observe, but something to live alongside. Art Over Dinner exemplifies this ethos. It reminds us that creativity doesn’t need a gallery to thrive—it only needs space, community, and a table long enough for conversation.
Join us for the next Art Over Dinner Saturday October 25 featuring Laura Deems, chosen as the 2025 Decorative Arts Fellowship recipient in partnership with Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles magazine and the Art Farm at Serenbe. Images: John Chiara and Jackson Fine Art Owner Anna Walker Skillman (top); the artistic tablescape (bottom left); guests enjoying a lively conversation and a bit of fun (bottom right).
ABSTRACT ARRIVAL
2025 Decorative Arts Fellow: Laura Deems
Each year, the Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles Serenbe Designer Showhouse shines a spotlight on the best in design while giving back to the arts through the Decorative Arts Fellowship in partnership with the Art Farm. This annual event supports emerging or mid-career artists through a focused residency and opportunities to share their work in Serenbe. This year’s fellowship recipient is contemporary abstract artist Laura Deems.
Trained in textile design at the University of Georgia’s Lamar Dodd School of Art, Laura brings a richly layered approach to her artistic practice. Her work, whether on canvas, paper, or textile, is grounded in the foundations of fabric dyeing, pattern weaving, and screenprinting. Movement is at the heart of Laura’s work. Through bold mark-making and vibrant color, she creates expressive compositions that reinterpret traditional pattern through gesture. In her words, she seeks to “free the motif from the grid,” allowing each piece to exist as a fluid, one-of-a-kind study of shape, rhythm, and feeling. Laura’s work has been exhibited in galleries and luxury interiors across the East Coast and has been featured in several design publications.
As part of her Decorative Arts Fellowship, Laura was in residence at Serenbe this August, using the time and environment to expand her body of work and connect with the community.
Her presence at Serenbe continues this fall during the run of the Serenbe Designer Showhouse. Select pieces from Laura’s collection will be incorporated in lead designers Mister + Mrs Sharp’s space, where you can experience the interplay of fine art and interior design firsthand.
To close out her fellowship, Laura will return to Serenbe on October 25th for Art Over Dinner, an evening of art, food, and conversation. Guests will enjoy a multi-course meal surrounded by Laura’s work and hear directly from the artist about her career and creative process.
Serenbe’s Decorative Arts Fellowship continues to deepen the intersection of art and place by celebrating artists whose work pushes boundaries and inspires connection. Through
this year’s residency and programming, Laura Deems brings a fresh voice and vibrant energy to Serenbe’s artful landscape. Don’t miss your chance to experience it.
Tickets for the Serenbe Designer Showhouse are on sale now at serenbeshowhouse.com. The Opening Night Preview Party will take place on September 18 at 6pm; Tours start September 19 and last through October 12, Thurs-Sun. Art Over Dinner tickets are available at serenbe.com/events.
MORE THAN A MOMENT
The Black Art Project Featured in New Documentary
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” - Margaret Mead
In the summer of 2020, as the nation confronted a long-overdue racial reckoning in the wake of George Floyd’s murder, a group of Serenbe residents began to gather.They came together not only to process the moment, but also to ask a deeper question: How could the community respond in a way that was authentic, lasting, and inclusive?
At the heart of those conversations was a shared desire to communicate a powerful message: that Serenbe is a place where people of all races, backgrounds, and walks of life are genuinely welcomed and valued. From those discussions, a bold idea emerged: to commission a work of public art by a Black artist, installed at the community’s entrance, as a lasting symbol of welcome and belonging.
What followed was a community-driven fundraising effort and a rigorous, juried selection process. Ultimately, the panel chose Serenity for Shango, a striking sculpture by world-renowned artist Curtis Patterson. Infused with the spirit and symbolism of African art, the piece pays homage to African American heritage and its profound influence on modern and contemporary art. Monumental in scale and rich with meaning, Patterson’s work invites viewers to pause, reflect, and engage – physically with the art itself as well as the ideas it represents.
Now, the story behind this transformative project is the subject of a documentary film, More than a Moment: Serenity for Shango, directed by Kenson Robley. The film captures the journey from grassroots vision to permanent public artwork, offering reflections on struggle, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of equity. Crucially, the film also asks: Where do we go from here?
“Initially it was meant to be a mini documentary,” says filmmaker Kenson Robley, “However there were so many unique, talented, and decorated individuals, I realized quickly we could tell a full story in a longer format.”
Filmed from the project’s inception to completion, the documentary centers on two key themes: the local context within Serenbe that gave rise to the art project and the personal journeys of each participating artist. As a young Black man navigating a career in the arts, Robley found deep inspiration in their stories. “Filming was a breeze once I developed a rhythm,” he says. “I think my style really inspired a great back and forth between myself and the interviewees.”
The editing phase, however, brought challenges. Serenbe resident and Black Art Project committee member Hannah Brandes collaborated closely with Robley to shape a focused and cohesive narrative. “[Kenson] fell in love with Serenbe and wanted to include more about it in the film, but it became confusing to tell the overlapping stories,” she explains, “So unfortunately, the cutting room floor has great footage of Phill Tabb, Steve Nygren, and others who brought Serenbe alive. The creative breakthrough required simplifying the storyline in order to center the artists and the art project. ”
The film premiered in Serenbe this past February to enthusiastic acclaim and was followed up by a second screening in Atlanta for the artists and their friends. For now, the documentary remains under wraps as Robley awaits news on whether it will be named a finalist in the Ken Burns Library of Congress Feature Documentary Competition. Later this Fall, he plans to submit the film to festivals throughout the Southeast.
When asked about the lasting impact he hopes his film will have, Robley says, “I would love the audience to leave thinking about how they could impact the unity of the world in a sustainable way.”
“Serenity for Shango carries the DNA of inclusivity for Serenbe,” adds Hannah, “It invites people of color to feel at home, whether visiting or living here. The sculpture also exposes everyone to cultural symbols often missing from mainstream rural communities, yet are part of our collective heritage.”
More than a Moment is a testament to what’s possible when art, community, and intention come together. As Serenity for Shango stands at Serenbe’s entrance, it marks a commitment to belonging, reflection, and continued progress.
Serenity for Shango is located on Selborne Lane, just past the main entrance on Atlanta-Newnan Road. To keep up with news about the documentary, More Than A Moment, please subscribe to Serenbe’s newsletter at serenbe.com. A roundup of public art in Serenbe can be found on page 19 of this issue of the Serenbe Hamlet. Images depict the installation of Serenity for Shango; Curtis Patterson and filmmaker Kenson Robley admire the finished piece (bottom left).
SERENBE IN THE NEWS
Chattanooga Times Free Press
Head for greener pastures with one of these farm stays near Chattanooga
Although just outside the bustle of Atlanta, the Inn at Serenbe feels a world away.
Resident
Serenity, Reimagined: 17 Luxury Spa and Wellness Retreats Worth Escaping to This Summer
Serenbe blends analog travel with modern wellness.
The New York Times
They Fell In Love at First Bite
Libby Rasmussen and David Amini were married May 2 at Serenbe, a planned community outside of Atlanta in Chattahoochee Hills, Ga., where Ms. Rasmussen’s parents live.
Atlanta Mom
Metro Atlanta Spa Experiences to Treat Yourself
Relaxing and rejuvenation are always in store for any Serenbe visit.
Rise
Serenbe Community: Georgia’s New Model for Urban Planning
The Serenbe Community located just south of Atlanta, Georgia, offers an inspiring example of how urban communities can be just that: inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.
Restaurant Informer
Where Are They Now? Steve Nygrenn
Founded in 2004, it’s a community that is threaded with nature, from its 25-acre organic farm and edible landscaping throughout to the outdoor performance space.
gb&d
The Biophilic Leadership Summit at Serenbe is Focused on the Future
Serenbe has become a highly sought-after walkable community with instant forest access, more than 1,000 residents, and a bustling social calendar.
The Atlanta JournalConstitution
$1.7 Billion Dollar Expansion
Planned in One of Metro Atlanta’s Most Desired Communities
Growth plan revealed for the next decade for bucolic Serenbe in Chattahoochee Hills.
The Real Deal
Aging-In-Place Strategy Powers Serenbe’s $1.7B Expansion
The first phase will include 97 units for older adults, the 110-room Selborne Hotel, an expansion of the private Terra School, and art performance spaces.
Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles
Cocktailery and kitchen
Austin’s at Serenbe is the swanky new neighbor we have been waiting for
Serenbe adds to their impressive lineup of eateries with Austin’s, focused on fresh, light dishes with unexpected twists.
BACKYARD BLUEPRINT
Introducing Steve Nygren’s Debut
Book
Steve Nygren would be the first to tell you he’s learned a great deal over his 20-year journey as an “accidental developer” and Serenbe town founder. Now, he’s sharing those lessons and insights in his upcoming narrative non-fiction book, Start In Your Own Backyard:Transforming Where We Live with Radical Common Sense. This is a thoughtful and timely book, full of stories for anyone looking to create meaningful change, no matter the size of their sphere of influence or the scale of their own backyard.
Part memoir, part guidebook, it offers a blueprint for building sustainable, connected communities, places where wonder exists in the everyday and people of all ages can truly thrive.
“We all care, or we wouldn’t be complaining,” Steve says. “So what’s driving you crazy that’s also within reach of your ability to change? If we could just shift our attitude, that’s the first step toward transforming where we live.”
Serenbe, now a nationally recognized model for nature-based community living, started almost by accident. When suburban sprawl threatened the land that would become Serenbe, Steve took action. He brought together local landowners and stakeholders, and immersed himself in studying communities that have stood the test of time – places intentionally designed to nurture human connection and harmony with nature, rather than prioritizing cars, concrete and isolation.
Throughout Start In Your Own Backyard, Steve shares how Serenbe evolved and how its principles can be adapted to any town, neighborhood, or home. The solutions aren’t costly or complicated. They’re rooted in a single powerful idea: radical common sense.
One of Steve’s favorite examples? The blueberry bushes planted near the crosswalks in Serenbe’s Grange neighborhood. Every summer, children and adults gather to share the joy of picking fresh fruit. “The joy on the street from something as simple as a blueberry bush— and then the community gathering around it,” says Steve, “My goodness, almost everyone has room to plant a blueberry bush or a group of them.”
The book delves into a wide range of practical topics: the hidden costs of sprawl, the consequences of our growing disconnection from nature, the value of local food economies, the power of small yards and front porches, and the importance of intergenerational relationships in healthy communities.
Start In Your Own Backyard: Transforming Where We Live with Radical Common Sense will be released on October 7, 2025. Pre-order your copy now wherever books are sold and take the first step toward reimagining the place you call home. Learn more at stevenygren.com, join Steve at a book event and listen to the Start In Your Own Backyard podcast.
BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME
The word “groundbreaking” means to pioneer. To innovate. To start something no one has seen before. When you buy a lot at Serenbe, the groundbreaking on your future home embodies every sense of the word. Work with one of our builders or BYOB—that’s Bring Your Own Builder—to create a home that matches the feel and flow of your life.
BUSINESSES BLOOM
Adding Fresh Energy to a Growing Community
Serenbe continues to thrive as a model for sustainable living and creative enterprise, welcoming a new wave of small businesses that add fresh character and purpose to the community. This year, several new ventures have taken root, each bringing a distinct flair, whether through flavor, wellness, or artistry, that align seamlessly with Serenbe’s ethos of intentional, eco-conscious living.
Among these exciting additions is a fifth coffee shop, Birdhouse Coffee Room, a warm and inviting café tucked along Serenbe Lane in the Textile Lofts. More than just a place to grab a coffee, Birdhouse serves as a peaceful haven for locals and visitors alike. Its ever-changing menu features single-origin brews, signature blends, and a selection of curated teas. In collaboration with local roasters like Two Jays Coffee Roasters and occasional guest contributors such as Monogram Coffee, Birdhouse delivers high-quality beverages in a setting that doubles as an art space, with rotating exhibits by local artists. Open daily, it’s a spot that encourages both relaxation and connection.
For those with four-legged companions, Dogs By Design has quickly become a trusted destination for top-notch pet care. Offering grooming services, full offerings and self-serve, doggie daycare, and a thoughtfully curated retail selection. With a philosophy centered on quality and personalization, Dogs By Design brings a new level of service and convenience to pet owners in and around Serenbe.
Another standout new retailer is Soberish, a non-alcoholic bottle shop and cannabis boutique making Serenbe home for its second location. Located on Mado Loop, the store
caters to the growing sober-curious movement with an elegant assortment of zero-proof spirits, non-alcoholic wines, aperitifs, and premium cannabis products. Soberish also offers CBD items for pets, stylish barware, and wellness-centered gifts. At its core, the boutique is about redefining social rituals with a healthier, more conscious twist. Founder Mehrnush Saadat’s commitment to education and community building gives Soberish a purpose that extends well beyond retail. This spring also welcomed the arrival of Native Bloom Flower Farm, bringing seasonal color and natural beauty to the heart of Serenbe’s Selborne neighborhood. With a flower farm based in Tyrone, Georgia, and run by Melissa Jolly, they specialize in growing vibrant, locally cultivated varieties such as Allium and Zinnias. Their new retail shop offers bespoke bouquets and lush arrangements perfect for gifting or brightening up everyday life.
Together, these businesses reflect the spirit of Serenbe, rooted in connection, craftsmanship, and care. Each new storefront offers more than just products or services; they provide experiences that resonate with Serenbe’s core values. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, exploring these fresh additions offers a deeper look into the evolving soul of this thoughtful, ever-growing community.
Explore all the Serenbe retailers and businesses at serenbe.com and sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date on all the latest news and events. Images: Native Bloom (top); Dogs by Design (bottom left); Soberish (bottom middle); Birdhouse Coffee (bottom right).
SEASON OF LOVE
These Serenbe Weddings Were Anything But Ordinary
Weddings at Serenbe are layered with meaning, each one a unique expression of love shaped by the rhythms of nature and the people who bring it all to life.
This past spring and summer, we had the honor of hosting ceremonies that were deeply personal, many with special connections to this place we call home. Each couple brought their own sense of story, weaving intention into every detail and allowing the landscape to guide the day. Here are two weddings that touched our hearts this season:
Summer Storms & Wisconsin Cheese Table
Libby Rasmussen, daughter of Serenbe residents, and David Amini were married at The Inn at Serenbe in a celebration full of heart and personal touches.
With storms threatening their original date, the couple made the bold choice to move the wedding up a full day, turning what could’ve been a challenge into a joyful, intentional pivot. Libby wore her mother’s unaltered wedding dress from 1983, and her father handcrafted the circular platform where they exchanged vows. Right after saying “I do,” the newlyweds surprised guests with a first dance, kicking off the celebration in true Libby-and-David style.
The details were meaningful and unmistakably theirs: handwritten notes wrapped around handkerchiefs for every guest, a decadent local cheese table in honor of Libby’s Wisconsin roots, brandy Old-Fashioneds, an open-fire dinner under a lightning-streaked sky, and a four-foot rectangular cake from a local Ukrainian bakery adorned with edible flowers.
The evening continued with a seated garden dinner featuring ingredients harvested just steps away, where local chefs crafted courses that told a story of place and connection.The night ended with a joyful turn; guests dancing late into the evening as the Lakehouse transformed into a glowing forest disco.
At the center of it all was a love story where simply being near each other is more than enough. We were honored to host a celebration so full of heart and thrilled to see it beautifully captured in The New York Times
Boy Meets Girl: A Forest Glam Affair
Taylor Woodruff and Nathaniel Waple’s wedding was the natural continuation of a love story that bloomed slowly.
From early mornings spent at Dunkin’ Donuts in college to years of steadfast friendship that turned into something more, their relationship unfolded with patience and warmth. Their wedding followed suit: a “forest glam” celebration held in the woods just across from The Inn’s Lake Pavilion.
The couple embraced the elegance of formality without the fuss. Sunlight streamed through the trees, wildflowers framed every view, and the celebration was filled with authentic joy.
Ninety-eight guests gathered beneath the transformed pavilion, where thoughtful details like a tequila shot wall and curated cocktails balanced sophistication with surprise.
Dinner was served beneath the trees, surrounded by nature and community. The reception that followed felt as effortless and sincere as their love story.
What each of these weddings shared wasn’t a look or a theme, it was a feeling. A sense of being transported into the lives of the couple, where the setting of Serenbe allowed their stories to unfold with beauty and meaning. From shifting schedules to custom-crafted ceremony drinks, this wedding season reminded us that love doesn’t follow a script.
And at Serenbe, it never has to.
Considering your own Serenbe celebration? Visit serenbe.com/weddings-and-events or email us at events@serenbe.com to learn how your story can be woven into this place.
PUBLIC ART TOUR
Exploring the Art That Shapes Our Community
The arts are a central thread in the fabric of community life at Serenbe. From gallery exhibitions and artist-in-residence programs to a vibrant theater scene, music and spoken word performances, creativity is intentionally woven into everyday moments. Art is also embedded in the landscape itself with a robust Public Art program that is thoughtfully placed throughout each neighborhood hamlet, offering moments of reflection, wonder, and joy.
In Serenbe founder Steve Nygren’s forthcoming book, Start in Your Own Backyard: Transforming Where We Live with Radical Common Sense, he emphasizes the role of art in placemaking and building a community embedded with beauty and meaning. He writes, “Arts and culture are essential for healthy communities because… they touch the deepest wells of the human spirit. They show us new ways to think about and understand our lives and the world around us. Art is a means of expression, a uniting force, and a way of communicating ideas and perspectives. It also challenges us when it exposes us to different points of view.”
So, strap on your walking shoes and meet us at the main Selborne Lane entrance. We’re about to explore some of Serenbe’s most compelling public art installations.
GRANGE
Our tour begins at the entrance to Serenbe on Selborne Lane, where you’ll spot a refined, understated entry sign designed by frequent Serenbe collaborator Robert Rausch Rausch’s creative fingerprint is visible throughout Serenbe, from whimsical streetlamps and benches to bike racks that double as sculpture.
As you continue toward the stables, on your right, pause at Serenity for Shango, a monumental sculpture by world-renowned artist Curtis Patterson. Commissioned by Serenbe residents, this powerful piece honors African American heritage and its profound influence on contemporary art. With its commanding presence and layered symbolism, Patterson’s work invites thoughtful engagement, both with the physical form and the cultural legacy it represents.
Turning left onto Gainey Lane, at the bottom of the hill, you’ll arrive at Grange Green, a beloved gathering spot for kids to play, weekly farmers markets, and impromptu concerts. Tucked into the landscape is Kite Boy by sculptor Gordon Chandler. Crafted from salvaged metal, this playful figure perfectly captures the spirit of Grange Green: creative, joyful, and a little mischievous.
From here, continue along Serenbe Lane to the right and enjoy the walk towards Mado.
MADO
Once you enter Mado, take the stairs on the left down to Mado Pond, where you’ll encounter Methods of Embrace, a sculptural installation representing two arching boughs, by Serenbe resident Rachel Garceau. Perched beside the trail, the piece acts as a quiet threshold between the built environment and the wild landscape beyond.
After crossing the Pond, head to the entrance of the One Mado building and don’t miss the elegant fountain, tree sculpture, chandelier, and hidden dog bowl, another collaboration with Robert Rausch. These pieces exemplify Serenbe’s commitment to thoughtful design and to making everyday encounters with art feel seamless and inspiring.
Next, as you leave Mado, cross Serenbe Lane and follow Prom Field Road past the Swim Club and Terra School toward the Inn at Serenbe. On the way, take a quick detour to view the colorful barn quilt by local artist Laurie Searle. Part of a larger barn quilt trail throughout Chattahoochee Hills, this piece connects to the area’s agricultural history and rich storytelling traditions.
Turning around towards Selborne, you’ll leave The Inn property and arrive at the Wildflower Meadow, where The Dance by Atlanta-based sculptor Martin Dawe awaits. Dawe was among the Nygrens’ first visitors back when Serenbe was simply their family home with a small bed and breakfast. His sculpture, graceful and seemingly in motion, was inspired by the interplay of feminine energy found in nature and the masculine force of development, two distinct yet harmonious forces joined with intention and reverence. The sculpture embodies the same sense of balance that Serenbe strives to cultivate throughout the community.
Let’s now head into Selborne, the last – but certainly not least – stop on our tour.
SELBORNE
Each Serenbe hamlet is designed around an intention, and Selborne is the artistic heart of the community. Beginning at the Blue Eyed Daisy, take in the colorful Labyrinth mural by resident Grady Cousins that mirrors the physical labyrinth on The Inn grounds. The image, like the labyrinth itself, encourages inward reflection and a slower, more mindful pace.
Continue past the Daisy to discover a cluster of public artworks near The Hill restaurant. Below the restaurant in a seating nook, you’ll find Serenbe Tree, a stunning mosaic by resident Morgan Boszilkov dedicated to the memory of Atlanta and Serenbe arts leader Shelton Stanfill. Nearby, two art billboards display vibrant, large-scale versions of works by residents GW Harper and Diane Cutler. Nestled between The Hill and Austin’s Cocktailery and Kitchen is the Serenbe leaf arch, another whimsical and intricate piece by Robert Rausch – proof that even the smallest details are intentional here.
As you walk down Selborne Lane, keep an eye on the alleyways. Hidden between the red-brick and painted white-brick townhomes is another one of Gordon Chandler’s salvaged-metal sculptures: Kimono, a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it treasure.
Finally, near the Wine Shop, look skyward to catch a glimpse of a mural by Shannon Lake. Partially hidden by mature trees, the piece features a pastoral scene of oversized flowers, an acorn motif, and a dreamlike landscape.
Public art is part of the rhythm of life here. Each piece adds a layer of meaning, sparks conversation, or simply offers a moment of delight. As you finish your walking tour, we hope you leave feeling more connected to the land, to the people, and to the powerful role that art can play in building community.
The Art Farm’s Special Projects Council keeps inspiration alive in unexpected ways throughout the Serenbe community. From public art installations that surprise and delight, to artists’ lectures and immersive arts workshops, the Special Projects Council creates magical moments of connection between artists and art enthusiasts. Learn more about the Art Farm and support the Special Projects Council at artfarmatserenbe.com. Images: Serenbe Tree by Morgan Boszilkov (top); Methods of Embrace by Rachel Garceau (top
the
left);
One Mado fountain and staircase by Robert Rausch (top right); The Dance by Martin Dawe (bottom left); an artistic light installation in Mado’s manor home courtyard (bottom right).
SHOPS AT SERENBE
Shop Serenbe’s unique boutiques, home decor purveyors, independent bookstore, floral studio, wine shop, and more. Serenbe offers plenty of places beyond the Showhouse to explore, including award-winning restaurants. Stroll the streets before or after you see the Showhouse, you won’t want to miss the natural beauty of Serenbe.
ACORN TO OAK HEALTH
acornoakhealth.com
Concierge Healthcare | 11090 Serenbe Lane
ALLCHEMY instagram.com/weareallchemy
Biophilic Farmacy | 11117 Serenbe Lane
AMPLIFY YOUR RIDE amplifyyourride.com
Golf Cart Dealer | 10625 Serenbe Lane
ATELIER BY JOLIE atelierbyjolie.glossgenius.com
Hair Salon | 10965 Serenbe Lane
BAMBOO JUICES bamboojuices.com
Cold Pressed Juice and Almond Milk 11150 Serenbe Lane
BIRDHOUSE COFFEE
birdhousecoffeeroom.com
Coffee Shop | 10625 Serenbe Lane
BLUE EYED DAISY blueeyeddaisy.com
Bakeshop & Café | 9065 Selborne Lane
CENTER FOR POSITIVE CHANGE cfpcllc.com
Mental Health Services | 11090 Serenbe Lane
CHAI WELLNESS COLLECTION
shopchai.com
Salon & Spa | 10971 Serenbe Lane
CHIROPRACTIC AT SERENBE chiropracticatserenbe.com
Chiropractic Care | 11134 Serenbe Lane
COLLIER ANIMAL HOSPITAL collierah.com
Veterinarian | 1273 Mado Loop
CREEK RETREAT creekretreat.com
Hydrafacials and Wellness Treatments 11134 Serenbe Lane
DENTAL WELLNESS
serenbedental.com
Dentist | 11090 Serenbe Lane
DOGS BY DESIGN brand.page/dogsbydesign Dog Salon | 9206 Selborne Lane
ESSENTIAL WELLNESS 360 essentialwellness360.com
IV Hydration Therapy | 11118 Serenbe Lane
FAMILY HAVEN CHIROPRACTIC famlyhavenchiro.com
Chiropractor | 11090 Serenbe Lane
THE FARMHOUSE serenbefarmhouse.com
Restaurant | 10950 Hutcheson Ferry Rd
FLOURISH PEDIATRICS flourishpeds.com
Pediatric Care | 11090 Serenbe Lane
THE GENERAL STORE generalstoreatserenbe.com
Grocery and More | 10642 Serenbe Lane
THE GYM gymatserenbe.com
Gym & Fitness Center | 11090 Serenbe Lane
HALSA halsarestaurant.com
Restaurant | 11090 Serenbe Lane
HAMLIN hamlinshop.com
Apparel, Accessories, Skincare, and More 9131 Selborne Lane
THE HILL thehillserenbe.com
Restaurant | 9110 Selborne Lane
HILLS & HAMLETS BOOKSHOP hillsandhamlets.com
Bookstore | 10625 Serenbe Lane
HONEYCOMB CONSIGNMENT facebook.com/HoneycombConsignment
Womens Consignment Store | 9110 Selborne Lane
THE INN serenbeinn.com
Inn | 10950 Hutcheson Ferry Road
MINRO STUDIO minrostudio.com
Coffee and Pottery Studio | 11135 Serenbe Lane
NATIVE BLOOM native-bloom.com
Flower Shop | 9077 Selborne Lane
NIGEL’S BANANAS nigelsbananas.com
Dessert Shop | 11131 Serenbe Lane
NYGREN PLACEMAKING nygrenplacemaking.com
Consulting | 9110 Selborne Lane
ORTHODONTICS AT SERENBE orthodonticsatserenbe.com
Orthodontist | 11090 Serenbe Lane
PLANNING & DESIGN serenbeplanninganddesign.com
Design Firm | 9110 Selborne Lane
PRECISION PERFORMANCE & PHYSICAL THERAPY precisionpt.org
Physical Therapy | 11090 Serenbe Lane
PRO BIKE REPAIR probikerepairga.com
Bike Shop & Rentals | 9222 Selborne Lane
PROPER HAIR SALON properhair.com
Hair Salon | 9059 Selborne Lane
RACHEL K. GARCEAU STUDIO rachelkgarceau.com
Art Studio | 10636 Serenbe Lane
RADICAL DOUGH radicaldough.com
Bagels, Pizza and more Eatery 11105 Serenbe Lane
RESOURCE resourceserenbe.com
Gifts, Jewelry, and Home Decor 9110 Selborne Lane
SERENBE FARMS serenbefarms.com
Organic Farm | 8457 Atlanta Newnan Road
SERENBE REAL ESTATE OFFICE serenberealestate.com
Real Estate | 9055 Selborne Lane
SERENBE TRAIL RIDING serenbetrailriding.com
Horseback Riding | 10950 Hutcheson Ferry Road
SERENBE YOGA + BODYWORKS serenbeyoga.com
Yoga, Pilates, and Private Sessions 11090 Serenbe Lane
SHARP FURNITURE CO | MISTER + MRS. SHARP misterandmrssharp.com
Home and Design Store | 11127 Serenbe Lane
THESKINADDIKT ESTHETICS
STUDIO theskinaddikt.com
Esthetician Studio | 425 Selborne Way
SOBERISH besoberish.com
Non-alcoholic Shop | 1277 Mado Loop
THE SPA spaatserenbe.com Spa | 11090 Serenbe Lane
STUDIO 13 PILATES studio13serenbe.com
Pilates | 11126 Serenbe Lane
TEAM GENESIS BJJ teamgenesisbjj.com
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu | 11111 Serenbe Lane
TYPO MARKET typomarket.com
Gift and Home Goods | 9133 Selborne Lane
THE WINE SHOP serenbewineshop.com
Wine & Beer | 9135 Selborne Lane
UPCOMING EVENTS
SEPTEMBER
FRIDAYS
Live Music On The Porch
5:30-8:30pm, The Farmhouse $
SATURDAYS
Farmers Market
9:00am-1:00pm, Grange
Story Time
9:30am-10:30am, Birdhouse Coffee
Goat Yoga
10:00am, The Inn $
Open Model Home Tour
11:00am-3:00pm, Overlook & Mado
Soberish Saturday Tastings
12:00pm-4:00pm, Mado
Wine Flights
1:30 & 3:30pm, The Wine Shop $
Farm Tour
2:00pm, Serenbe Farms $
Jazz Nights
9:00pm-11:00pm, Austin’s $
6
Wild & Rooted: Native Plants 101, 10:30-11:30am, Serenbe Farms $
Tibetan Reiki-Infused Sound Healing Journey, 12:15-2:00pm, Serenbe Yoga $
Sipping Through Piedmont 4:00pm-5:30pm, General Store $
13
Serenbe Farms Plant Sale
9:00am-1:00pm, Grange
Coffee with the Makers 9:30am, Residence $
Film Showcase| Parrot Kindergarten
5:30pm, Gainey Hall $
14
Hamlet Days | Mado
12:00pm-4:00pm, Mado Hamlet
18
Serenbe Showhouse Opening Preview Party
6:00pm-8:00pm, Spela $
19-Oct 12
Serenbe Showhouse Tours
Thurs-Sun, 10:00am-4:00pm, Spela $
20
Book Launch and Signing for Lessons in Hope: A New Era for Maasai Women in Tanzania by Juliet Cutler 3:00-5:00pm, Hills and Hamlets
21 & 22
Allchemy’s First Anniversary Celebration 10:00am-5:00pm, Allchemy
26
Jazz Night with Rhonda Thomas 7:30pm, Gainey Hall $
29-Oct 1
Nygren Placemaking Conference All Day, The Inn $
OCTOBER
FRIDAYS
Live Music On The Porch 5:30-8:30pm, The Farmhouse $
SATURDAYS
Farmers Market
9:00am-1:00pm, Grange
Goat Yoga 10:00am, The Inn $
Open Model Home Tour 11:00am-3:00pm, Overlook & Mado
Soberish Saturday Tastings 12:00pm-4:00pm, Mado
Wine Flights
1:30 & 3:30pm, The Wine Shop $
Farm Tour 2:00pm, Serenbe Farms $
Jazz Nights
9:00pm-11:00pm, Austin’s $
Sept 19-Oct 12
Serenbe Showhouse Tours Thurs-Sun, 10:00am-4:00pm, Spela $ 4
Harvest Time in Europe Wine Tasting 4:00-5:30pm, General Store $ 5
Southern Chefs Potluck 3:00pm-7:00pm, The Inn $
10-12 | 17-19
Art Farm presents Xanadu 7:00pm-9:00pm, Wildflower Meadow $
18
A Celebration of Wine, Words, & Women’s Voices 4:00-6:00pm, The Wine Shop $
19
Hamlet Days | Grange 12:00pm-4:00pm, Mado Hamle
22
The Art Farm Soiree at Serenbe 6:00pm, Inn Pavillion $ 25
Art Over Dinner with Laura Deems 6:00pm, Gainey Hall $
NOVEMBER
FRIDAYS
Live Music On The Porch 5:30-8:30pm, The Farmhouse $
SATURDAYS
Farmers Market 9:00am-1:00pm, Grange Open Model Home Tour 11am-3pm, Overlook & Mado
Soberish Saturday Tastings 12:00pm-4:00pm, Mado Wine Flights 1:30 & 3:30pm, The Wine Shop $
2:00pm, Serenbe Farms $
Nights 9:00-11:00pm, Austin’s $
Furniture Launch | Holiday
5:00pm-8:00pm,
Furniture Co.
Fast Bananas Trail Race 8:00am, Mado, $ 16 Hamlet Days | Selborne 12:00pm-4:00pm, Selborne
Thanksgiving Dining 11am-6pm, The Farmhouse or The Hill $
DECEMBER
FRIDAYS
Live Music On The Porch 5:30-8:30pm, The Farmhouse $
SATURDAYS
Open Model Home Tour 11:00am-3:00pm, Overlook & Mado
Soberish Saturday Tastings 12:00pm-4:00pm, Mado
Wine Flights 1:30pm & 3:30pm, The Wine Shop $ Jazz Nights 9:00pm-11:00pm, Austin’s $ 4 Holiday Market 4:00-8:00pm, Gainey Hall
UPCOMING EVENTS
SATURDAYS
Art
Open Model Home Tour 11:00am-3:00pm, Overlook & Mado
Soberish Saturday Tastings 12:00pm-4:00pm,
Open Model Home Tour 11:00am-3:00pm, Overlook & Mado
Soberish Saturday Tastings 12:00pm-4:00pm, Mado Wine Flights 1:30 & 3:30pm, The Wine Shop $
Nights 9:00-11:00pm, Austin’s $ MARCH
Live Music On The Porch 5:30-8:30pm, The Farmhouse $ SATURDAYS
Open Model Home Tour 11:00am-3:00pm, Overlook & Mado
Soberish Saturday Tastings 12:00pm-4:00pm, Mado Wine Flights 1:30 & 3:30pm, The Wine Shop
Jazz Nights 9-11pm, Austin’s $
Live Music On The Porch
5:30-8:30pm, The Farmhouse $
SERENBE REAL ESTATE
1234 Mado Loop, L451
McKinney Builders
This charming home on Mado Pond offers an open floor plan, abundant natural light, and modern finishes. With 2 bedrooms/2 bathrooms and seamless indoor-outdoor living, it’s a serene retreat.
10931 Serenbe Lane, L512
South Haven Builders
Perched on Serenbe’s scenic Mado hillside, this threebedroom home offers open living, a spacious courtyard, and stunning views. With a private balcony, versatile loft, and easy outdoor access, it’s the perfect blend of comfort and nature.
11786 Serenbe Lane, L812
South Haven Builders
This modern white stucco farmhouse features striking iron and glass double doors, an open living design, and a main-level primary suite. A spacious screened porch and an upstairs loft with two bedrooms create a perfect blend of elegance and comfort.
1064 Lupo Loop, L557
Phillip Clark Custom Homes
Enjoy a rocking chair front porch, open living/dining, and a main level primary suite with sunset views. The lower level includes guest rooms, a flex space, and a second deck—perfect for entertaining and embracing comfort, craftsmanship, and nature.
11855 Serenbe Lane, L913
McKinney Builders
This thoughtfully designed two-story home offers open living, a private side courtyard, and a main-level primary suite. Upstairs, two bedrooms, a versatile loft, and a balcony create a perfect blend of comfort, functionality, and outdoor connection.
11560 Serenbe Lane, L726
Cross Creek Homes
This modern three-story townhome in Serenbe’s Overlook Hamlet combine luxury and comfort with open-concept living, spacious flex rooms, and private outdoor spaces. With a front porch, multiple balconies, and en-suite guest bedrooms, experience a tranquil retreat just steps from nature trails and wellness amenities.
Make Your Dream of Living at Serenbe a Reality
Whether you are in the market for a weekend retreat or year-round home, Serenbe offers single-family homes, townhouses, live-works, condos and apartments. Or choose a wooded lot and build your dream home. Explore architectural floor plans and pick your finishes or choose a move-in-ready home today. All homes are EarthCraft certified for sustainability with geothermal technology for heating and cooling.
For a complete listing of all Serenbe properties visit SerenbeRealEstate.com, call 770.463.9997 or stop in the office located at 9055 Selborne Lane, just up the street from the Blue Eyed Daisy Bakeshop. *All plans are subject to change.
