Introduction

In ancient times, the senses of sight and hearing have been considered more important than smell and taste in the
western world. They also believed that touch, taste, and smell, the contact or proximal senses, put the perceiver in
danger of being too close to make objective observations. Smell is such an inferior sense when you walk into a mall
flooded with food court smells or when you visit a real estate open house that is infused with the smell of chocolate
brownies, baked only to associate the place with your fond memories. Nowadays designers and marketers are using
olfactory perceptions for customer comfort thereby keeping them for long term. Sensory marketing is used as a strategic
stimulus that connects products and places to people’s emotional memories and preferences. In this book discussing the
sophistication of the food design industry in applying techniques to heighten gustatory sensations, but the focus is more
on introducing ideas about designing for products that are enhanced with smell and taste features. Insights into the
biophysics of smell and taste. It includes

 Knowledge about the experiences of smelling and tasting, and how they interact with one another to create
evocative memories.
 Awareness of the taxonomy for describing smells and tastes, and the limitations related to describing and producing
smells and tastes in product design.
 How we are affected by smellscapes and scentscapes.
 Principles of olfactory and gustatory design.
 How the context within which we have smell and taste interactions influences our perceptions and experiences.

Experiencing smell

The experience of olfaction begins as a chemical process in which receptors in the cilia in your nose capture and send
smell signals to your olfactory sensory neurons. These signals are interpreted as an electric impulse that travels to your
brain you experience this when you inhale airborne smell particles during interactions with products or places; these
odourants are translated into messages of pleasure or danger.

Human olfactory receptors can detect at least one trillion different aromas, making smell a highly discriminative sense.
When enjoying a meal, the aroma often intertwines with its flavour, showcasing the connection between smell and taste.
This involves Ortho nasal olfaction and retro nasal olfaction Smell functions as both a proximal sense, detecting nearby
odours, and a distal sense, identifying scents from a distance Together, these aspects highlight the complexity of olfactory
perception in shaping our sensory experiences.

Smell and memory

Olfactory perception significantly shapes how individuals interpret their experiences by linking smells to memories,
emotions, and places. Research indicates that people remember 35% of what they smell, compared to only 5% of what
they see, highlighting the profound impact of scent on memory (Auracell, 2020). Fragrances can evoke moods and
enhance brand recall, which is why there is a growing demand for scented products. This phenomenon, known as the "
Proustian phenomenon," refers to how specific smells can trigger involuntary memories, as illustrated by a character in
Proust’s work who recalls childhood experiences through the scent of a madeleine. Personal experiences with scents,
such as the smell of coffee brewing or freshly cut wood, can create emotional attachments and influence preferences for
certain products or places. These olfactory memories can resurface during future encounters with those scents,
reinforcing connections between past and present experiences.

Describing smells can be challenging due to a lack of specific vocabulary, often relying on comparisons to other senses,
such as taste or touch. Odour preferences are shaped by personal experiences and cultural contexts, leading to varied
emotional responses to similar smells. Designers need to conduct user research to ensure the fragrances used in products
are well-received and avoid negative associations. For instance, familiar smells like popcorn at cinemas can attract
customers, while unpleasant odours in cities, such as those from factories, need to be managed through separation,
deodorization, or masking. These methods help control and minimize offensive smells. Urban planners and environmental
scientists use criteria such as odour character, hedonic tone, intensity, duration, and frequency to assess and manage
odours, providing essential data for reducing unwanted smells in public spaces and industries.

Sensory

Touch
Hear
See
Smell

Odour Character refers to the objective way we describe a smell, such as bad, stinky, or offensive, often indicating that
we should avoid the source of the odour.

Hedonic Tone describes the subjective emotional response to a smell, influenced by personal experiences and feelings,
with words like scary or unpleasant that reflect how the odour makes us feel emotionally.

Duration refers to the length of time we continue to perceive a smell. A short duration would be an odour that quickly
fades, like the smell left behind in an elevator after a caretaker passes by.

Frequency describes how often we experience an odour episode. Repeated encounters with the same unpleasant smell,
such as on a daily commute, can negatively affect our quality of life.

Odour Intensity refers to how strong we perceive the smell to be, with stronger smells, whether pleasant or unpleasant,
leaving a more lasting impression. Reactions to intensity vary based on individual sensitivity to smells.
 Categorizing smell

The pyramid used for odour enforcement in urban environments can also be adapted to help designers characterize
scents in products and experiences, especially by focusing on hedonic tone. For instance, in spaces like bathrooms and
kitchens, scents are often added to mask unpleasant odours from activities like composting or storing waste. The goal is
to create pleasant scents that enhance the experience of preparing and serving food, contributing to a more enjoyable
and positive atmosphere.

Smells are all around us, often unnoticed, but when we pay attention, we can identify distinct "smellscapes" in different
environments. Some places, like Peterborough's oat factory, have signature smells, while most areas feature a mix of
scents. Research using guided "smell walks" helped participants identify and name urban smells, but finding and
describing them can be difficult, as they often travel and aren't easily traced. Dr. Kate Maclean developed activities to
help people better perceive and articulate smells.

Characteristics of Smells

Smells are referred to by different terms, like odours (scientific), scents (environmental and cosmetic), and fragrances
(cosmetic and food-related). Perfumers use terms like top, middle, and base notes to describe the layers and timing of smells,
which can vary in intensity, duration, and proximity. However, most smells are short-lived due to a phenomenon called
olfactory fatigue, where our perception of a smell quickly diminishes. For designers, this means that designing scents requires
careful consideration of when a smell is most intense and how it contributes to the overall experience. For example, the "new
car smell" fades within weeks, while everyday scents like dirty shoes or dry cleaning take over. Although designing with scents
is often underdeveloped in product design, scents can play a significant role in user experience. For instance, the smell of
salmon from a can might give feedback that a can opener is working, or the smell of a toaster could indicate how well-done
the toast is. Smells can also come from the materials or electronics of a product itself, not just from interaction.

Fragrance Models

Smells can be organized into scent categories using two-dimensional models, similar to colour wheels. One example is the
Drom Fragrance Wheel, developed in 1911, which categorizes scents like leather, floral, or herbaceous, using descriptive
adjectives. An earlier model, created by George William Septimus Piesse in 1857, took a unique multisensory approach by
assigning musical chords, harmonies, and notes to describe the composition of scents as harmonies or disharmonies. This
musical model is still used in the perfume industry today.

Despite efforts to categorize scents, models for describing them are still considered inadequate. In response, researchers
Guercia, Schifanella, Aiello, and McLean developed the Urban Smellscape Aroma Wheel, based on their research with
participants on smell walks (2015, 2016). This wheel organizes the descriptive words participants used into ten key smell
categories, arranged in a hierarchy of urban smells. The participants often used metaphors related to environmental
categories, such as flowers, plants, trees, and soil, which all fall under the broader category of "Nature."

Olfactory design principles

The car industry was one of the first to intentionally design and associate smells with luxury brands,
starting with Rolls-Royce in 1965, and other manufacturers followed. From a branding perspective,
scents are now considered unique product identifiers, and design teams work to match them closely with
the product or space. Thompson et al. (2018) outline key principles for designing effective smells:

1. Authenticity: Scents should accurately reflect the product or environment, like a chocolate scent
in a chocolate store or a clean scent for hygiene-related products. Apple, for instance, adds scents
to its products that feel authentic to electronics, such as plastic or metal.

2. Intensity: Scents should be appropriately diluted, not too overpowering, and should create a
journey of scent experiences, with moments of strength and subtlety, much like the concept of
crescendos and silences in music.

3. Quality: The quality of scents depends on the ingredients used and the formulas behind them.
Consumers develop expectations for sophisticated scents in personal products, so designers need
to meet those expectations.

4. Suitability: Since smell perceptions vary by age, demographics, culture, and location, designers
must understand their target audience’s experiences and preferences to create scents that
resonate with them.

Design applications

Choosing the right smells in product design can create positive associations, like using scents in retail
spaces to attract customers or emitting fragrances to enhance well-being, such as in the ODE device for
dementia patients. Smells can also serve practical purposes, like alerting users to dangers (e.g., burnt
food triggering a smoke alarm) or deterring crime (e.g., the Skunklock bike lock releasing a foul smell
when tampered with). Designers must also consider how materials and scents interact, as smells can
impact both product perception and taste experiences, especially in food-related products.

Case studies

Retail building Central square mall kochi

630,000 square feet

Smell is a primal sense, deeply connected to memory and emotion. It affects how we feel in a space,
potentially influencing mood, comfort, and even behavior. In commercial spaces like malls, smell can
have a direct impact on consumer behavior. A carefully designed smellscape can enhance the shopping
experience, making a place feel welcoming, engaging, and memorable.

For malls, smell can:

  Enhance brand identity: Certain scents can be tied to specific stores or even the mall as a whole,
creating a unique olfactory experience.

 Influence mood and behavior: Certain fragrances, such as citrus or vanilla, have been shown to
reduce stress and encourage longer stays.

 Mask unpleasant odors: Malls often have a mix of smells—food, cleaning products, body odor,
etc. Proper scent management ensures a clean and pleasant atmosphere.

 Create a sense of place: Just as architecture can evoke a feeling of place through visual design,
smell can contribute to a mall’s unique identity, making it stand out from other malls.

 Spatial Organization
 The mall is designed with open, airy spaces, featuring wide atriums, large glass windows, and
strategic placement of retail units. The flow of foot traffic is directed through spacious corridors,
ensuring a free and unencumbered movement of people. These spatial qualities allow air to
circulate freely, contributing to an overall fresh and comfortable atmosphere.
 Materials and Finishes
 The materials used in the construction of the mall, such as glass, steel, and polished stone, are sleek
and modern, but they can also impact how smells are perceived. Hard, non-porous materials like
glass and steel tend to retain or reflect smells rather than absorb them. In contrast, natural materials
like wood or textiles (found in some interior designs of the mall) can absorb scents, contributing to
a softer, more grounded atmosphere.

Kochi Central Square Mall's design encourages not only visual exploration but also an immersive experience that
involves the sense of smell. Several factors play into how smell is integrated into the mall’s architecture:

1. Food Courts and Retail Spaces

 Food courts in malls are notorious for strong food smells that may mix with the air, creating a
sensory overload or even a sense of discomfort. In Kochi Central Square Mall, the food courts are
strategically designed with adequate ventilation to ensure that the smell of food does not
overpower the other sections of the mall. Air handling systems are used to direct food smells out
of common shopping areas, maintaining a balance.

 Retail stores, especially those selling perfumes, cosmetics, and luxury goods, often integrate their
own distinct smells to enhance the brand experience. For instance, a store selling high-end
fragrances or cosmetics will not only rely on product placement and visual merchandising but also
on olfactory cues to attract customers. The design of these stores allows for individual scent
identities, which are carefully crafted through air fresheners, scent diffusers, or even the material
finishes inside the stores.

2. Climate Control and Ventilation Systems

One of the most critical elements of controlling smell in a mall like Kochi Central Square is the HVAC
(Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system. Proper air circulation is necessary to prevent the
buildup of stale air or unpleasant odors. The mall’s ventilation systems likely include odor-neutralizing
technologies to ensure a constant flow of fresh air, contributing to an optimal olfactory environment.
3. Natural Elements

Despite the mall’s urban setting, certain areas of the Kochi Central Square Mall incorporate natural
elements such as indoor plants and green spaces, which can contribute pleasant natural smells. Plants
not only purify the air but also introduce fresh scents, making these spaces more pleasant and calming.

The Impact of Smell on User Experience

The smell design in Kochi Central Square Mall significantly impacts how people experience the space:

 Emotional Comfort: Smell can evoke emotional responses. Fresh, clean air combined with subtle,
pleasant scents (such as floral or citrus notes) creates a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere
that encourages visitors to stay longer.

 Spatial Awareness: Different smells in various parts of the mall—such as the food court, retail
sections, or recreational spaces—help users navigate and orient themselves within the complex.
The absence of overwhelming or unpleasant odors means people can focus more on shopping
and less on sensory discomfort.

 Enhanced Memory: As smell is closely tied to memory, the olfactory experience in the mall can
create lasting associations. A visitor who associates the fresh, pleasant smell of the mall with a
positive shopping experience may be more likely to return, as the scent evokes the same feelings
of comfort and enjoyment.

Hill palace museum Thripunithara

Hill Palace Museum, located in Tripunithura, Kerala, is a historic site and former royal residence that has
been transformed into a museum. The palace, originally built in 1865, was the administrative
headquarters of the Cochin Royal Family and features architectural styles that blend traditional Kerala
architecture with colonial influences. While the visual design of the palace and its museum collections
have garnered much attention, the relationship between architecture and the sense of smell is equally
important in shaping the visitor's experience.

In this case study, we explore the interaction between architecture and smell in Hill Palace Museum,
examining how architectural elements and the passage of time influence olfactory experiences and
contribute to the overall visitor experience.

In historic buildings like Hill Palace, the role of smell is particularly significant due to the interplay
between materials, age, and environmental factors. Smell in such buildings can evoke memories,
nostalgia, and emotions, as well as affect the comfort, atmosphere, and overall experience of visitors.
Smell interacts with architectural features in multiple ways:

1. Materials and Finishes: The materials used in construction (wood, stone, plaster, etc.) absorb and
release odors over time, shaping the smells of the space.

2. Age and Patina: As buildings age, they develop unique smells due to the accumulation of dust,
moisture, and organic materials in the environment.
 3. Ventilation and Climate: In warm and humid climates like Kerala, natural and artificial ventilation
systems impact the flow of air, which in turn influences the intensity of smells in a building.

 Materials and Construction

Hill Palace Museum’s architecture combines traditional Kerala design elements, such as sloping roofs,
wooden ceilings, and decorative woodwork, with colonial architectural influences. These materials,
which include teak wood, laterite stone, and lime plaster, play a crucial role in how smells are perceived
within the building.

Wood: Wood, especially teak, is a common material used throughout the palace, and over time, the
wood naturally absorbs moisture and other environmental elements. The scent of wood, particularly a
rich, earthy aroma, fills the air of many rooms, contributing to the museum’s sense of antiquity. This
smell is often comforting, evoking a sense of history and timelessness.

Laterite Stone: The laterite stone walls and floors, which are common in Kerala architecture, have a
porous quality that can absorb moisture and odors. Over time, the natural minerals within the stone
contribute to a faint, earthy odor, giving the museum’s interior a characteristic scent of its regional
materiality.

Plaster and Paint: The lime plaster and original colonial paint used in some parts of the building have also
contributed to the smell of the space. As paint and plaster age, they may emit subtle smells that can
enhance the sense of authenticity and age, deepening the historical character of the museum.

2. Natural and Environmental Factors

Kerala’s tropical climate, with its high humidity levels, is a significant factor in the smell of Hill Palace. In a
humid climate, materials such as wood and stone are more likely to absorb moisture and develop musty,
organic smells. This creates a rich, earthy, and sometimes slightly damp smell within the museum.

 Humidity and Preservation: Museums, especially those housed in historical buildings, must
carefully manage humidity levels to prevent damage to artifacts. Hill Palace Museum’s climate
control measures, including natural ventilation and possibly modern air conditioning systems,
play a role in maintaining a balance between preserving the artifacts and ensuring that visitors
are not overwhelmed by any unpleasant musty or stale odors.

 Ventilation and Airflow: The museum’s high ceilings, large windows, and verandas contribute to
natural ventilation, allowing air to circulate freely. This helps maintain a relatively fresh
atmosphere, preventing the buildup of stagnant air and unpleasant smells. The presence of
natural light, which filters through these windows, also impacts the overall sensory experience,
including the sense of smell.

The Visitor Experience: How Smell Impacts the Museum

The relationship between smell and architecture at Hill Palace Museum significantly impacts the visitor’s
experience in several ways:
1. Evoking Memory and Atmosphere

Visitors to Hill Palace are often immersed in an experience that transcends visual interaction. As they
move through the galleries, rooms, and courtyards, the smells of the building create a sensory
connection to the past. Smell is a potent memory trigger, and visitors may subconsciously associate the
familiar scent of wood, stone, and old plaster with the historic grandeur of the royal family and the
palace’s rich cultural history.

The smell contributes to the atmospheric experience of the museum, enhancing the mood of the space.
The earthy, woody scent may create a calming, reflective atmosphere, encouraging deeper engagement
with the museum’s exhibits and artifacts. It becomes a part of the sensory narrative of the building.

2. Sensory Immersion in the Historic Environment

In addition to the visual and tactile experiences within the palace, the smell of the building deepens the
feeling of immersion in the historic environment. Visitors can engage with the past not just through the
artifacts they see but also through the smells that accompany their journey. The smells of wooden
furniture, traditional Kerala motifs, and stone pathways make the museum visit more visceral and
engaging.

3. Challenges and Preservation

While the historical smells of the building can be enriching, there are also challenges related to the
preservation of both the building and its collections. Excessive humidity, the natural wear and tear of
materials, and potential mold or mildew can alter the smell of a historic building and even pose risks to
the artifacts housed within it. Hill Palace Museum must balance the need for climate control with
maintaining the traditional smells that define the palace's historic character. Ensuring the longevity of
these materials while managing the olfactory experience is key to preserving both the architecture and
the sensory experience for future generations.

ADIYOGI

Adiyogi, located in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, is a monumental structure that serves as a spiritual and
cultural hub. It is a statue dedicated to Lord Shiva, also known as Adiyogi, which is the largest bust statue
in the world, standing 112 feet tall. Designed by the renowned spiritual leader Sadhguru and constructed
by the Isha Foundation, Adiyogi is not just an architectural marvel but a place of meditation, prayer, and
cultural reflection.

This case study explores the relationship between architecture and smell in the context of Adiyogi,
examining how architectural elements, natural surroundings, and rituals influence the olfactory
experience for those who visit the site.

In architecture, smell is often an overlooked but powerful aspect of how we experience a space. Smell
has a unique ability to evoke deep emotional responses, connect us to memories, and influence our
mood. In sacred spaces like temples, monasteries, or meditation centers, smell plays an important role in
creating a sensory environment that enhances spirituality and reflection.
Smell interacts with architecture in a variety of ways:

1. Materials and Finishes: The materials used in the construction of the space (wood, stone, etc.)
naturally contribute to the smell of the space.

2. Climate and Environment: Outdoor elements like trees, plants, and air quality contribute to the
olfactory atmosphere.

3. Rituals and Offerings: Sacred rituals, such as incense burning, offerings, and the use of traditional
oils, can greatly influence the smells associated with a spiritual space.

4. Temporal Changes: Over time, the smells of a space evolve based on the aging of materials and
the activities that take place within.

In the case of Adiyogi, the relationship between architecture and smell is especially significant as the
site is a focal point for meditation and spiritual practice, where scent can enhance the sense of
connection to the divine and the natural world.

Architectural Design and Smell at Adiyogi

1. The Materials Used in Construction

Adiyogi is constructed from concrete and steel, materials typically used in large-scale modern sculptures,
which may seem unlikely to influence the olfactory experience in a deeply spiritual manner. However,
the natural surroundings and the integration of the statue within a larger landscape of trees, rivers, and
hills play a more significant role in shaping the smells of the site.

 Concrete and Steel: While the statue itself is constructed from concrete and steel, which don't
typically emit strong smells, the sheer scale and presence of the structure can influence the
perception of the space. The reflective surfaces and the way the statue interacts with natural light
and air may enhance or soften the sensory atmosphere around the statue.

 Landscaping and Grounds: The area surrounding Adiyogi, including gardens and pathways, plays
an important role in creating an olfactory experience. Trees, plants, and the vast open grounds
contribute a fresh and earthy smell, which is highly conducive to the spiritual and contemplative
nature of the space. The smell of freshly cut grass, earthy soil, and wildflowers create an
environment of peace and calm that supports meditation.

2. The Natural Environment

Adiyogi is situated at the foothills of the Velliangiri Mountains, an area known for its natural beauty and
spiritual significance. The natural environment itself plays a crucial role in shaping the smells of the
space:

 Forests and Vegetation: The surrounding forests and the natural flora contribute significantly to
the smell. The lush greenery, trees, and diverse plants release pleasant, calming smells. The air,
often filled with the fresh scent of leaves and woods, makes the space feel alive and grounded in
 nature. This is particularly important in sacred spaces where a connection to the earth and nature
is central to spiritual practice.

 Air Quality and Freshness: The high altitude and relatively low levels of pollution in this area
ensure that the air is clean and fresh. This contributes to a purified olfactory experience, which
enhances the clarity of thought and meditation. Fresh, clean air can often evoke feelings of
rejuvenation and mental clarity—qualities that are essential to the meditative process.

3. Rituals and Offerings

In a space dedicated to spiritual practice, rituals and daily offerings significantly influence the smell of the
place. While Adiyogi is a modern architectural marvel, it is also an active site for meditation and prayer,
where traditional practices are observed.

 Incense and Fragrant Offerings: One of the key components of spiritual practices in Hinduism
involves the use of incense (such as sandalwood or jasmine), camphor, and essential oils. The
sweet and soothing smells of incense fill the air, creating a serene and focused environment.
These smells help to elevate the spiritual atmosphere, aiding visitors in their prayers and
meditations.

 Oil Lamps and Natural Elements: The lighting of oil lamps, a traditional practice in Indian
spirituality, adds a subtle yet distinctive scent to the space. The combination of ghee, oil, and the
flame releases a soft, warm aroma that symbolizes purity and divine light. This aromatic
experience encourages visitors to slow down, breathe deeply, and enter a state of mindfulness
and connection.

4. Smell and Emotional Connection to the Place

The relationship between architecture, smell, and the emotional experience of visitors to Adiyogi can be
profound. As visitors approach the site, they are enveloped in a sensory experience that enhances the
overall atmosphere of the spiritual environment:

 Connection to the Divine: The smells of nature, incense, and offerings play a key role in making
the visitor feel connected to the spiritual energy of the space. For many people, the smell of
incense and flowers can trigger an emotional response, heightening their sense of reverence and
devotion. This olfactory connection can make the experience of visiting Adiyogi feel more sacred
and meaningful.

 Meditation and Mindfulness: The smell of the environment, combined with the vast open spaces
and natural surroundings, fosters a sense of calm and focus. The earthy smells and the fresh air
work together to clear the mind and help individuals enter a meditative state. For a site that
promotes inner peace, the smells are integral to the overall spiritual experience.

5. Temporal Changes and Aging

As the site and the surrounding structures age, the smells associated with the space will naturally evolve.
The passage of time and the weather conditions (such as seasonal changes in flora) will alter the
olfactory experience. Over time, the smells of the trees and landscapes may deepen and mature, offering
a richer, more grounded connection to the earth and the spiritual history of the place. This evolving
smellscape can be perceived as a reflection of the ongoing spiritual journey and the living presence of the
Adiyogi statue.

The Visitor Experience: How Smell Enhances the Spiritual Atmosphere

1. Smell as a Gateway to Meditation

Smell at Adiyogi can be a powerful aid to meditation. The fresh air, combined with the subtle fragrance of
incense and the earthy smell of the surrounding landscape, helps create a multi-sensory environment
that calms the mind. The smell encourages mindfulness, aiding visitors in focusing on the present
moment.

2. Creating a Sacred Atmosphere

In a place that is both a symbol of spiritual unity and a space for personal reflection, the olfactory
experience is an extension of the site’s sacredness. The smells of nature and ritual make the space feel
like a living entity, imbued with spiritual energy. This relationship between smell and architecture creates
a holistic spiritual experience that transcends the visual.

3. Memory and Nostalgia

For many visitors, the smells experienced at Adiyogi will linger long after they leave the site. The smell of
incense, the fresh air, and the earthy scents of nature will evoke memories of the space, creating a
lasting connection. This olfactory memory can continue to inspire and calm visitors long after their visit,
reinforcing the role of smell in the spiritual journey.

Office spaces

The design of office spaces has traditionally focused on functionality, aesthetics, and spatial organization.
However, smell, an often-overlooked sensory factor, plays an important role in influencing the comfort,
productivity, and well-being of employees in these environments. The relationship between architecture
and smell is not just about fragrance, but how materials, ventilation, climate control, and even human
activities interact to create a sensory environment that impacts the user experience.

This case study explores how smell influences the design and user experience of office spaces, and how
architects and designers can use it as a tool to enhance productivity, mood, and mental clarity.

The Role of Smell in Office Spaces

Smell is a powerful yet often unrecognized influence on our perception of spaces. It affects both physical
comfort and psychological well-being in the workplace, which can in turn affect performance, decision-
making, and interpersonal relationships.

In office environments, smell can influence:

 1. Mood and Productivity: Certain smells can evoke calm, focus, or energy, while others can cause
distraction or discomfort. The right smell in the office can increase productivity and overall
satisfaction.

2. Workplace Well-being: Smell can also affect health, as poor air quality or unpleasant odors may
contribute to headaches, fatigue, or other discomforts.

3. Spatial Identity and Branding: Office spaces, especially those used by corporate brands, can use
scent to reinforce the company’s identity and values. Scents can be tailored to align with the
company culture or philosophy, fostering a deeper emotional connection between the space and
its users.

Architectural Factors Influencing Smell in Office Spaces

1. Materials and Finishes

The choice of materials and finishes in an office space directly impacts the smell of the environment.
Some materials naturally absorb or release odors over time, while others may maintain a more neutral
scent.

 Wood and Natural Materials: Materials like wood, bamboo, cork, and natural textiles can add a
pleasant, earthy smell to an office. Wood, in particular, is known for its ability to enhance air
quality through its natural ability to absorb pollutants. The scent of wood, especially when paired
with other natural finishes, can create a calming, warm atmosphere that promotes well-being and
reduces stress.

 Synthetic Materials: Materials such as synthetic carpets, vinyl, or plastic can release volatile
organic compounds (VOCs) over time. These odors can be off-putting and lead to what is called
“sick building syndrome”, where poor indoor air quality can cause headaches, fatigue, and
decreased cognitive performance. In office spaces, choosing low-VOC or non-toxic materials can
improve air quality and reduce unpleasant smells.

 Concrete and Stone: Many modern office designs incorporate concrete and stone finishes. These
materials generally have a more neutral smell, but their durability, combined with the space’s air
circulation, can create subtle changes in the smell over time. The coolness of these materials can
also contribute to a fresh, clean environment if well-maintained.

2. Ventilation and Air Circulation

Ventilation is one of the most critical factors in controlling the smell of an office space. Proper airflow
helps to prevent the buildup of stale air and undesirable odors, while also ensuring that fresh air is
continually brought into the space.

 Natural Ventilation: Offices with large windows, skylights, and open facades can benefit from
natural ventilation, bringing in fresh outdoor air that dilutes indoor odors and keeps the
environment feeling breathable. Green offices—those with indoor plants or green walls—further
enhance air quality by releasing oxygen and filtering out harmful chemicals.
  Mechanical Ventilation: In the absence of sufficient natural airflow, HVAC systems (Heating,
Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) become crucial in regulating both temperature and air quality.
An efficient HVAC system can remove contaminants, regulate humidity, and keep air fresh. Many
modern offices incorporate air purification systems or scent diffusers within the HVAC systems to
keep the air clean and pleasant.

3. Climate and Indoor Air Quality

Air quality is a major factor in determining the smell in any office space. Poor air quality, whether due to
excess moisture, low air circulation, or pollutants from building materials, can create unpleasant smells
that affect concentration, energy levels, and overall well-being.

 Humidity Control: Humidity plays a major role in the smells of office spaces. High humidity can
lead to musty odors, mold growth, and an overall damp feeling in the air. Offices in humid
climates often require proper air conditioning and dehumidification systems to ensure that the air
stays fresh and dry. Regular maintenance of these systems is crucial to prevent undesirable smells
from developing.

 Air Purification: Many modern office buildings invest in air purification systems to reduce indoor
pollutants such as dust, allergens, and VOCs. This ensures the air remains clean and free of
unpleasant odors.

4. Human Activities and Rituals

Certain activities or rituals in the office also contribute to its olfactory experience:

 Food and Beverage: The office kitchen, food courts, or nearby cafés can introduce strong smells
into the workspace. Coffee, food, and snacks can leave lingering odors that may mix with the
general smell of the office. Strategic office design often places food areas in separate zones to
limit the spread of food-related odors into working spaces.

 Cleaning Products: The choice of cleaning products in an office also affects its smell. Harsh
cleaning chemicals can create a strong, artificial scent that many find unpleasant. Companies are
increasingly adopting green cleaning solutions—natural, non-toxic products that leave a fresher,
more neutral scent while ensuring a clean and safe environment.

 Plants and Greenery: The integration of plants or even small indoor gardens can add a pleasant,
fresh scent to the office. The scent of certain plants, like lavender or basil, can have a calming or
energizing effect, enhancing the overall mood and productivity of employees. In addition, plants
naturally filter the air, reducing odors and improving air quality.

Strategies to Enhance Smell in Office Spaces

1. Designing for Natural Ventilation

Incorporating large windows, skylights, and openable vents allows for natural air exchange and helps
keep the air fresh. Air exchange between the inside and outside spaces also brings in natural smells—
such as fresh air, rain, or nearby greenery—which can improve the overall sensory environment.

2. Use of Scent Diffusers and Essential Oils

Some office spaces use scent diffusers or essential oil diffusers to introduce pleasant aromas, such as
lavender, citrus, or eucalyptus, into the environment. These scents can help create a relaxing or
energizing atmosphere, depending on the office's culture and purpose. Scents can also be used to align
with company branding, with subtle aromas like cedarwood, sandalwood, or vanilla contributing to a
professional, calm atmosphere.

 Scent as Branding: Some high-end corporate offices or boutique agencies use specific smells as
part of their brand identity, creating a signature scent for their space. This is similar to how
businesses use visual elements like logos or colors to reinforce their image. For example, a
creative tech company might use a citrus or mint fragrance to stimulate creativity and focus.

3. Incorporating Green Spaces and Natural Elements

Indoor plants or even living walls can help improve air quality, reduce stress, and create a pleasant
sensory experience. Plants like snake plants, peace lilies, or spider plants absorb carbon dioxide, release
oxygen, and can add a subtle green scent to the office. These elements not only provide visual and
emotional benefits but also contribute to a healthier, fresher-smelling space.

4. Good Maintenance and Cleaning Practices

Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining a fresh-smelling office. Offices should ensure that HVAC
systems are cleaned and maintained, carpets are vacuumed, and high-traffic areas are regularly sanitized.
Cleaning products should ideally be natural and non-toxic, avoiding the use of overly perfumed or
chemical-laden products that can leave an unpleasant residue.