Givaudan has just unveiled a striking new addition to the fragrance world—L’Appartement 125, a state-of-the-art creative hub in Shanghai that’s getting serious buzz. We know what you may be thinking, but rest assured, this center is more than just a place to mix scents! In fact, it’s the first-of-its-kind studio meant to connect Givaudan’s top perfumers directly with Chinese brands. By all accounts, it's making waves in the fragrance industry. 

The Vision Behind L’Appartement 125

In the heart of Shanghai’s former French Concession, this new fragrance playground feels like something straight out of a dream. Designed by renowned Chinese artist Ma Wen, L’Appartement 125 is all about East meets West, with the perfect blend of minimalist chic, natural materials, and high-tech flair. Think sleek labs, an interactive fragrance wall, and a sensory garden that invites visitors to explore the art of scent in ways they’ve likely never imagined.

Since Givaudan’s first foray into China in 1988, the country has become one of its fastest-growing markets and an endless source of creative inspiration. CEO Gilles Andrier calls L’Appartement 125 a milestone.

A Whole New Take on Fragrance Creation

L’Appartement 125 is built to inspire, with a design that pairs the finesse of modern French perfumery with the elegance of traditional Chinese craftsmanship. Every detail, from the materials used to the space’s layout, is meant to spark creativity and make the process as immersive as it is groundbreaking.

Xavier Renard, Global Head of Fine Fragrances at Givaudan, is enthusiastic about the venture. “A dedicated fine fragrance team, starting with talented perfumer Jasmine Liu, will be permanently established in Shanghai, working in close connection with our global fine fragrance team,” Renard shared.

What This Means for China’s Growing Fragrance Market

As China’s appetite for luxury and personalized fragrance continues to grow, L’Appartement 125 will be offering workshops, fragrance exhibitions, and one-on-one sessions to connect with and support Chinese talent and brands. And it doesn’t stop there—the center is also positioned as a learning hub, keeping local partners plugged into global fragrance trends while honing in on what’s resonating with Chinese consumers.

The opening of L’Appartement 125 is part of Givaudan’s larger 2025 strategy to lead the fine fragrance space in China. According to Yaling Li, Head of Fragrances for China and Korea, “Our diverse and inclusive team is dedicated to bridging regional and global needs.”

The opening of L’Appartement 125 is both a promising new chapter for Givaudan and a game-changer for Shanghai’s fragrance scene.