New book centers principles of biophilic living and how it leads to healthier, sustainable communities

The cover of a new book called Start In Your Own Backyard, Transforming Where We Live with Radical Common Sense, next to a portrait of its author Steve Nygren
Steve Nygren, a founder of Serenbe, is the author of the new book, “Start In Your Own Backyard, Transforming Where We Live with Radical Common Sense.” (Iñaki del Olmo/Matt Holt Books and Juliette Seymour/WABE)

Steve Nygren has concerns about how neighborhoods are being established. He thinks some developers are building shelters rather than communities.

In his new book, “Start In Your Own Backyard, Transforming Where We Live with Radical Common Sense,” he encourages readers to start right where they are. The book aims to provide a blueprint for building sustainable, walkable and nurturing communities through the principles of biophilic living — designing neighborhoods with nature in mind to improve health and well-being.

More than 20 years ago, Nygren and his wife, Marie Lupo Nygren, cofounded Serenbe, a 1,000-acre community located in Chattahoochee Hills. The community is comprised of geothermal, solar and net zero homes, edible landscaping, community gardens, restaurants and more.