What identifies an environment besides the architecture of its interiors, the furnishings, the light, the accessories, the objects? It is the smell of the place, which is part of its identity. In the words of Anna Barbara, scientific director of Poli.Design's Olfactory Design course.

The sense of smell is ignited when we experience other people and other places: it is a matter of memory, time, emotions, as well as food, bodies, proximity. Recognising and identifying a place by its smell, even after some time, proves that a certain fragrance can make a certain space unforgettable - for better or for worse.

The olfactory dimension of spaces is dealt with by Olfactory Design, a very recent discipline that trains professionals capable of managing this emotional side of the project. This expertise is increasingly in demand in the markets for retail, hospitality and entertainment applications and should be included in the design of spaces.

The presentation of the course states: “The design of the invisible, linked to the sense of smell, is not a monopoly of the beauty and perfume industry. Perfume, with all its ramifications, also belongs to Architects, Designers, Anthropologists, Sociologists and Psychologists. Professionals who, like all of us, are constantly immersed in the daily invasion of the odours that surround us, ranging from the pleasant to the repulsive”.

A knowledge, and awareness, to be implemented especially in this post-pandemic phase, where air quality and awareness of what we allow into our bodies while breathing are factors of primary importance.

Because “perfume travels in space through air and humidity, wood or laminates, telling past stories, anticipating the future to come”.