It’s always interesting to show someone for the first time the rolling acreage that is known as Grange, the second community within Serenbe.  Something about it typically reminds them of another place—we’ve heard Highlands, North Carolina countless times.  “My grandparents’ farmland” is common.  Even the Hollywood hills a time or two.  The varied responses are as diverse and interesting as the look of Grange, with preserved forestland, high hills that allow you to see for 50 miles, historic-looking farmhouses, traditional cottages, sleek new architecture, a 6-acre lake, the Serenbe Organic Farms, and the gorgeous Serenbe Stables. 

Currently under construction, the first Grange homeowners are expected to move in early winter.  At completion, the community will be home to a barbeque restaurant, farm store, feed and seed shop, and small spaces for artisans and craftspeople.  While Serenbe’s first community, Selborne, is focused on the arts and has a more urban feel, Grange will possess a downhome, agrarian charm with a rustic elegance.  Walkability is a key factor—the community-wide trail system winds through Grange, connecting neighbors to each other, the restaurants and shops, Selborne, and leads to the Inn grounds.  And, of course, we’ve implemented cutting-edge measures to make sure Grange, like all of Serenbe, is not just a good environmental steward, but a model for environmentally responsible living.  Homes and shops are placed to minimally disturb our natural topography and eliminate the need for mass grading, and all structures are built to EarthCraft’s environmental standards.  Landscaping is kept to a minimum; we’d rather save existing trees and plant more (in Grange, we’re also planting blueberry bushes and peach trees), and we don’t have lawns to water.  Realizing the importance of water conservation, Serenbe’s founders opted to install a biological wastewater treatment system rather than a sewer.  The first of its kind in Georgia, this system creates cleaner water, reclaimed through means that require less energy, amounting to huge annual savings on water bills.  The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) recently recognized these and other efforts by naming Serenbe a Development of Excellence, and awarding us the “Exceptional Merit in Conservation” award.

Homeowners in Grange will enjoy having the Serenbe Organic Farms and the Serenbe Stables as their neighbors.  Farms manager Paige Witherington and her crew practice biodynamic farming and turn out beautiful vegetables, fruit, herbs, flowers, eggs, mushrooms and more, which may be purchased at the weekly farmers’ market (held during growing season), at Serenbe’s gourmet grocery Harris & Clark, or enjoyed in the delicious dishes at Serenbe’s restaurants.  Ever had a salad made from vegetables harvested this morning, or an egg that was gathered within hours of it hitting your plate?  The difference is remarkable (for your palate and your health).  

Serenbe residents Mindy and David LaMarca own and operate the Serenbe Stables.  Designed by Peter Block Architects, a nationally recognized firm that specializes in equestrian and residential designs, the nearly 14,000 square foot barm is constructed of all local wood with exposed timber beams.  The L-shaped building includes 10 stalls on each side, with separate tack rooms, wash stall and feed rooms.  The center of the building features a mezzanine as well as a meeting room, offices, and a plaza overlooking the countryside for special events.  The Stables and their riders have won several awards, including 12 year–end awards at their first Britches and Boots Banquet, and is home to the Woodward Academy Intramural Riding Facility.  The stables have a full lessons menu; visit www.serenbestables.com for more information.

We hope you’ll come and see Grange and spend a day or two with us.  Make reservations at the Inn, have brunch, lunch or dinner in one of our three restaurants, see an exhibition at StudioSwan art gallery, browse through our shops.  Visit www.serenbe.com for contact information.