The sense of smell is tied to memory and a new line of unisex fragrances takes that concept into history.
Created by Carlos Huber, an architect specializing in historic preservation, the Arquiste collection was designed to reflect a particular time and place in history. Huber, who was born in Mexico City, has been to Minnesota to visit the family of Nate Berkus, Huber's partner. Huber will be back in town for an event on Friday.
Q Why did you study architecture?
A My fascination with historic architecture has always been connected to its experience, and if you are sensitive to scent, then what you smell and feel is just as important as what you see. Also, architecture and perfumery are both fields that involve long and complex processes. The research to create a perfume and actually base it on a real story is as thorough as the research behind the restoration of an old building. You need to find clues to justify the structure that you are building.
Q How did you get involved with making fragrances?
A I've always been very connected to my nose, and every time I would do research on a building or city for work, I would come across an anecdote, a part of the story, where I would think "What did it smell like?" I realized that my passion for scent and the culture around it was just as strong as my love of architectural history.
Q What inspires your fragrances?
A I love to travel and take inspiration from various historical landmarks and sites that I visit while abroad. I also love reading about history. I take a moment in time that interests me and really investigate it to consider all aspects: What clothing were the characters wearing and what foods were they eating? Was there any scent, flower or plant nearby that would affect the experience? The answers to all of these questions help me identify the authentic scents and notes of the time that we can then use in the perfume formula.
