When I founded LEHMANN DESIGN HAUS, I was driven by a belief that fragrance is not just a commodity—it is a true art form. Like a painting, a sculpture, or a piece of music, a well-crafted scent tells a story, evokes an emotion, and creates a unique experience for the observer. For me, a perfumer is an artist, and the fragrance is the medium.
Layering, Blending, and Light
The parallels between creating a fragrance and creating fine art are striking. A painter uses a palette of colors to build a visual composition, from bold strokes to subtle washes. Similarly, a perfumer uses a palette of raw materials to build an olfactive composition.
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Top, Middle, and Base Notes: These are the fragrance equivalent of a painting’s layers. The light, fleeting top notes are like the initial sketches or the background wash—they set the scene. The rich middle notes are the main subject, giving the composition its heart and character. The deep base notes are the final, grounding strokes that hold everything together and give the piece its longevity.
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Light and Shadow: Just as a sculptor uses light and shadow to give form to their work, a perfumer uses certain notes to create contrast and depth. A bright citrus note can be used to add a 'luminous' quality, while a deep, smoky note can create a sense of 'shadow' and mystery. This interplay is what gives a scent its complexity and beauty.
Scent as a Sculptural Piece
Ultimately, I view a fragrance as a sculptural piece for the home. A sculpture takes up space, changes the way you move around a room, and commands attention. A fragrance does the same. It fills a space, influences the mood, and becomes a central element of the room's atmosphere.
My mission is to create fragrances that not only smell good but are as beautiful, intentional, and thought-provoking as a piece of fine art. When you light one of my candles, you are not just scenting your home; you are adding a piece of art to your life.
