This summer, Morris Adjmi Architects (MA) invites guests to open the senses, excite the nose, and explore connections between and among the botanical world, art, design, and architecture. The Architecture of Scent | Wood Symphony, a summer art exhibition of olfactory experiences and architectural scentscapes, will run from June 9th through August 4th at MA’s office in Lower Manhattan.
“Architecture and scent share a surprising number of similarities—the importance of composition and layering, the ability to create spatial experiences, and the ability to evoke memories and emotions,” says Morris Adjmi, Founder and Principal of MA. “Just as architects create spaces by combining structural elements and materials, perfumers build complex fragrances by layering various scent components. Both disciplines involve a careful consideration of how these elements interact and complement each other to achieve a harmonious result.”
Morris Adjmi and Michelle K. Gagnon
The show has been specifically conceived for MA’s multidisciplinary design studio by The Pyramid Collective + Bio Alchemy Olfactive, a Manhattan-based, environmentally-focused aromatic design lab, led by Michelle K. Gagnon, Antonello Patella, and David M. Gross.
“Olfactory elements represent a powerful channel for communication and aesthetic expression. While often excluded or ignored in the traditional design process, olfaction and other sensual impressions contribute to a more holistic and deeper experience connecting us intimately and emotionally with a space,” explains Gagnon from Bio Alchemy Olfactive, whose most recent works include collaboration with the GoldenEye resort in Jamaica, the Langham Hotel in NYC, Remedy Place and Bulthaup. “Aromatic design is an exciting practice on its own, when combined with other creative disciplines – interior and landscape design, architecture, sculpture and materiality, it delivers another dimension, heightening and completing the sensory experience.”
Evocative bioactive installations are imbued with multiple layers of natural aromatics such as Sandalwoods, Hinoki, Palo Santo, and Rosewood as well as jungle bark extractions, sustainably sourced and artisanally distilled from Gagnon’s travels around the world.
“Michelle, Antonello, and David take us on a provocative and multisensory exploration of the world of fine and rare scents, their perception, and the emotions and memories they can create and evoke. The show is a beautifully crafted, thoughtfully designed presentation using bespoke scent design to engage viewers in a journey of possibility for scent in an architectural setting”, says Lyle Starr, MA’s Director of Art Services, the division that in the last ten years has expanded the firm’s identity to a cultural platform for connecting clients, artists, and others to inspire collaboration and build community.
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