WHAT'S IN A NAME?

Perfumer Francis Kurkdjian, co-founder of Maison Francis Kurkdjian, delves into the creative process behind some of his iconic scents.

- JOSEPH LOW

In the proliferation of perfume boutiques here in recent years, few have the name of the perfumer emblazoned on their facade. There's the established Jo Malone brand, then the relative newcomer Maison Francis Kurkdjian. Launched by the French perfumer in 2009, it has two standalone boutiques. The first opened at Takashimaya Shopping Centre in 2022, the second at Raffles City a year later.

Born in 1969, Kurkdjian rose to prominence at just 24 years old with the creation of Jean Paul Gaultier's Le Male, which became an international best seller. More hits followed, including Narciso Rodriguez's For Her and Burberry Her. When he co-founded his eponymous fragrance brand Maison Francis Kurkdjian at the age of 40, the world came to know the nose behind the olfactory creations.

Maison Francis Kurkdjian is known for many iconic scents, from the fresh, citrusy fragrance Aqua Universalis to Baccarat Rouge 540, a favourite of many celebrities including Rihanna. Apart from his own venture, Kurkdjian has also served as Dior Beauty's perfume creation director since 2021, a job that involves reinventing storied scents such as J'Adore and Miss Dior.

Here, Kurkdjian talks about his journey from aspiring ballet dancer to perfumer, and the inspirations behind his scents for Maison Francis Kurkdjian.

You had an interesting pathway, from aspiring ballet dancer and fashion designer, to renowned perfumer. How has this journey shaped your approach to creating perfumes?