Date Published 27 October 2017
Marcel Proust knew about the power of the senses to evoke happy memories. Cues in everyday life, in his case, the smell of a madeleine dipped in tea can spark a sense of security or joy.
Retailers and hoteliers have exploited our involuntary responses to certain smells for many years, and estate agent folklore says that aromas of freshly brewed coffee or baking bread can help sell a home.
But does scent really make us buy a house?
The secret is to make people think ‘what a wonderful place' without realising it's the smell.
Fragrances improve your mood and you want people to relax as they walk around and feel that it is a refuge, a safe haven. The secret is to make people think ‘what a wonderful place' without realising it's the smell. Subtlety is key, whilst overpowering smells can be a turn-off.
Scent plays a part in creating a narrative or a back story to a property something that is increasingly important in helping to sell homes in high-end new schemes.
For the luxury apartments of Chelsea Island, where prices start from £935,000, chandler Rachel Vosper created an uplifting petitgrain and bergamot scent to complement the soft grey and lemon decor. She suggests taking the long view when concocting a homely scent: 'Rather than use a specific scent that is in fashion and will date, go for something with longevity.'
To read the full article please goto: The Telegraph online - 26 October 2017
