This summer, my travels took me to Italy—a journey that sparked an unexpected transformation within the walls of my home. Inspired by the rustic charm of Tuscan kitchens and adorned with treasures from across Europe, I endeavored to recreate the essence of a Mediterranean getaway in Los Angeles. My abode now whispers tales of Roman markets and Venetian stalls through its decor: iron candlesticks, intricate lace tablecloths, aged balsamic vinegar, and herbal liqueurs steeped by medieval monks.

A Scent to Transcend Time

Among all these accouterments, it is the olfactory ambiance that commands unanimous praise from my circle. My home has been imbued with a sacred aroma reminiscent of European cathedrals—cold stone, smoldering wicks, and the lingering presence of incense. This church-like atmosphere wasn’t just a happenstance; it was a deliberate endeavor to capture the serenity and timelessness found in the sanctuaries I visited.

The Journey Begins

My quest for a home that resonates with spiritual grandeur began at the heart of my travels—the church. From Rome’s ornate chapels to Florence’s hallowed halls, these spaces are not only visual masterpieces but also rich in olfactory experience. The scent of cold stone underfoot and incense in the air evoked a deep sense of reverence.

Bringing Europe Home

To replicate this ambiance, I turned to historic European fragrance producers known for their artisanal craftsmanship:

• Cire Trudon: Established in 1643, this French candlemaker offers exquisitely perfumed candles inspired by historical ecclesiastical designs. Their signature scent, Spiritus Sancti, combines incense vapors with notes of labdanum to evoke the soul-stirring atmosphere of a cathedral.
• Carmélite: Another Trudon creation named after the contemplative Carmelites, this candle features an aroma palette that includes mossy stone walls, thanks to its blend of geranium, orange, cardamom, and patchouli.

Maison Oriza L. Legrand

This venerable French fragrance house offers Relique d’Amour—a scent that captures the essence of an abandoned chapel. Its notes transport one to a space where cold stone walls are veiled in moss and scented with waxen wood.

Modern Interpretations

In addition to these timeless offerings, modern fragrances also evoke a cathedral-like atmosphere:

• 19-69’s Female Christ: Inspired by a provocative art performance, this scent combines patchouli and red thyme with wintergreen for an avant-garde church vibe.
• Rien by État Libre d’Orange: Described as “a venial sin on the verge of becoming mortal,” its blend of incense, rose, and oakmoss offers a modern take on sacred scents.

Santa Maria Novella

A perfumery with roots in a 13th-century convent garden, Santa Maria Novella’s Carta d’Armenia releases ecclesiastical vapor reminiscent of ancient chapels. These scented papers bring the timeless aura of medieval churches into modern homes.

The Essence of Memory

While these fragrances may seem unconventional for summer, they serve as a unique form of nostalgia for my European escapades. As Europe’s hot days unfold with little respite from the heat, stepping into a cool cathedral becomes an irresistible sanctuary. The scent of stone and incense becomes synonymous with comfort, transporting me back to those shaded halls where relief from summer’s embrace was but a breath away.

An Unexpected Solace

Adopting church scents at home has become my personal refuge—a tranquil escape that transcends seasons. These fragrances offer not only a sensory reminder of my travels but also an invitation to pause, reflect, and find solace in the familiar embrace of sacred spaces.

Creating Sacred Spaces

For those seeking to infuse their homes with similar tranquility:

• Consider blending traditional church-inspired scents with modern fragrances for a customized ambiance.
• Create ritual spaces within your home where these aromas can linger, providing moments of reflection or meditation.