THE PERFUME CLUB

Soohyang, a renowned fragrance brand based in South Korea, is excited to expand its presence into the Australian market, replicating their iconic Perfume Club experience through a brand-new concept venue in Surry Hills. This unique retail and bar space will focus on the element of scent, offering an immersive journey through the world of aroma-based drinks. The concept centres around crafting an environment where fragrances, botanicals, and essences are at the forefront, explored through the art of bartending. It’s a space designed to elevate both the olfactory and visual experiences, where every element invites exploration.

The colour palette draws on hues of baby blue, burgundy, and chartreuse, alongside darker wood tones and textured materials, giving the space a rich, and warm atmosphere. These tones mirror the natural ingredients used in both the perfumes and the aromatic drinks, creating an immersive experience. The Perfume Club in Sydney will stay true to Soohyang’s original values but will tailor its offering to an Australian audience, blending the art of bartending with fragrance exploration in a unique setting.

Oki Naganode by Julia Lohmann

Julia Lohmann’s Oki Naganode (2013), exhibited at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London, is a large-scale sculptural installation crafted from seaweed, specifically kelp (Lohmann 2013). The work is part of Lohmann’s broader exploration into the potential of seaweed as a sustainable material for design and art. Lohmann treats seaweed as an adaptable and versatile medium, showcasing its ecological benefits and its ability to challenge conventional material use in creative practices (Griffin 2013). The intricate, organic structure of Oki Naganode reflects Lohmann’s focus on biophilic design principles, which aim to create a deeper connection between humans and natural materials (Yip 2013).

As a designer and researcher, Lohmann specialises in sustainable practices and materials innovation. Her work often challenges traditional design paradigms by integrating natural, renewable resources like seaweed. Through projects like Oki Naganode, Lohmann highlights the urgency of addressing environmental issues through creative material experimentation while promoting the integration of sustainable practices within the design industry (Lohmann 2013; Griffin 2013).

In my project The Perfume Club, I aim to integrate sustainable materials to align with contemporary design trends and ecological considerations. Julia Lohmann’s Oki Naganode inspires this approach by showcasing the aesthetic and functional potential of unconventional, natural materials like seaweed. By referencing Lohmann’s work, I intend to explore innovative ways of incorporating sustainable materials into the design, creating a sensory-rich and environmentally conscious space. The use of tactile and organic materials, such as seaweed-inspired elements, will enhance the sensory experience of The Perfume Club, aligning with its concept of blending sensory experiences. This connection between materiality and sustainability not only supports the overarching concept of my project but also demonstrates a commitment to addressing environmental concerns within the realm of interior design.