Steve Nygren is the Founder and CEO of Serenbe, a nationally recognized biophilic community designed to demonstrate that preserving green space integrated with agriculture, housing, and retail is not only economically viable, but essential to the future of community wellbeing. He is also the author of Start In Your Own Backyard, chronicling the rise of Serenbe and charting a path for others wishing to challenge the status quo, embrace optimism, and reinvent their communities…and themselves.
Steve’s work in regional land conservation began when he helped lead the creation of the Chattahoochee Hill Country Alliance, bringing together landowners, developers, and conservationists to develop a shared vision for balanced growth across 40,000 acres. The effort resulted in a historic Georgia land use plan that preserves 70% of the land on Atlanta’s edge while allowing 20% more housing than traditional suburban development.
His leadership has earned recognition, including the Global Wellness Institute’s Leader in Innovation Award, Southface’s Argon Award, Georgia Trend’s 2019 Most Respected Business Leader, and the 2025 MLK Jr. Beloved Community Environmental Justice Award.
Steve serves on several local and national boards focused on children, agriculture, and environmental issues. He is also a Partner at Nygren Placemaking consulting and started his career as a serial hospitality entrepreneur, having founded the 34-restaurant group, Peasant Restaurants.