Written by Marie-Sophie Schaupp, Founder of Maison Diaphane — Last updated: August 3, 2026
Optique Hugo, an optician in Niort (79), entrusted Diaphane Projects with the creation of its bespoke olfactory identity: an amber, warm, and elegant signature, designed to extend the boutique's exacting standards and refinement into a fragrance from the moment one enters.
Located in the heart of Niort, the Optique Hugo boutique chose to entrust Diaphane Projects with the creation of its bespoke olfactory identity.
The goal was simple: to transform each visit into a sensory experience that is harmonious and perfectly consistent with the spirit of the place.
There are boutiques where you feel at ease from the very first seconds. Even before you look up, before you see the aligned frames or hear a "hello," something invisible welcomes, reassures, settles you in.
This is exactly what Optique Hugo wanted to offer its customers.
Known for its high standards, carefully selected frames, and precise advice, the boutique felt the need to add an additional dimension: a warm and elegant olfactory atmosphere, matching the experience offered. An intangible but decisive detail. A scent that tells the story of the place without a word.
To bring this project to life, Optique Hugo called on the expertise of Diaphane Projects, a studio specializing in creating olfactory signatures for professional spaces.
The need: a welcome that is felt before it is seen
During our first meeting, the Optique Hugo team expressed a simple intention: "We want a scent that matches the place. Something that soothes, that makes people want to stay."
We took the time to observe the boutique: the flow of space, the light, the materials, the graphic universe, but also the rhythm of visits. Then we explored the brand's DNA: elegance, precision, softness, and that sense of detail characteristic of passionate opticians.
The challenge was clear: to imagine an ambient fragrance capable of accompanying the customer experience without overwhelming it, to highlight the quality of advice without distracting attention from the frames. A professional olfactory signature, both clear and subtle.
The obvious choice: an amber-based olfactory identity
Very quickly, an olfactory family stood out: Amber.
We imagined a luminous and modern amber, far from overly dense or oriental ambers. An amber that exudes clarity, softness, and warmth, consistent with the universe of a contemporary optician.
The chosen composition combines:
- Bergamot & lemon: a fresh sparkle, a luminous opening that delicately captures attention.
- Patchouli & sandalwood: substance, depth, a warm base that structures the fragrance.
- Sweet vanilla: an enveloping roundness that reassures and invites one to linger.
The result: an amber, warm, and enveloping ambient fragrance, designed as a halo. A discreet but memorable olfactory presence that naturally integrates into the store's atmosphere.
Diffusion: a controlled breath in the space
To deploy this olfactory identity in the boutique, we opted for a portable and discreet electric diffuser, adapted to the needs of an optician: cleanliness, regular diffusion, intensity control.
The fragrance never imposes itself. It accompanies. Upon entering, customers don't think, "It smells like something," but rather: "It's pleasant here."
This is the whole point of a bespoke olfactory signature: to create an ambiance, not a demonstration effect.
Feedback: a scent that is now part of the place
Since the implementation of this amber ambient fragrance, the feedback has been very positive.
"This scent is an integral part of the place. It evokes comfort, refinement, and contributes to the very identity of the boutique."
"This fragrance embodies exactly what we had in mind. Thanks to Diaphane Projects for their sensitivity, attentiveness, and expertise."
— The Optique Hugo team, Niort
The Optique Hugo team also noted a subtle change in customer behavior: a different way of moving around, taking their time, allowing themselves to be guided. The atmosphere seems to gently slow down the pace and invite calmness.
From the boutique to memory: what we take with us
Optique Hugo didn't just add an extra fragrance. The boutique gained a sensory dimension, an invisible presence that extends the experience long after the visit.
Because some places stay in our memory long after we've left them. Their scent often plays a big part in that. A just, coherent, and controlled scent becomes a true identity marker: it tells the story of the place, supports the brand's message, and strengthens the connection with customers.
With Diaphane Projects, Optique Hugo has acquired a unique olfactory signature, perfectly aligned with its values and exacting standards.
Project: olfactory identity — Optique Hugo, optician in Niort (79).
What if your space had its own signature too?
At Diaphane Projects, we believe that a strong identity is not limited to what is seen.
It is felt. It is experienced. It is remembered.
Because some places leave a lasting impression. And the most memorable ones always leave an invisible trace.
