Russell Weiss
Meet the Curator Russell Weiss
Lifelong Chicagoan Russell Weiss is an artist who worked in an array of other media – including design and sound – before turning his creative attention to fragrance. His affinity for the natural world, along with his recognition of scents’ uniquely transportive and evocative properties, led him to the deep study of and experimentation with botanical ingredients. These endeavours culminated in the launch of his own fragrance brand, Deep Field Aromatics, in 2019, where his line of artisanal small-batch natural perfumes aims to connect the user, through scent, with elemental aspects of nature.
From the first time I visited The Peninsula Chicago, it was clear to me that the hotel embraced a particular, essential philosophy: Every aspect of the environment there is considered with great care. My practice as a perfumer is guided by the same ethos; I share the commitment to crafting a fully immersive experience. By creating a bespoke scent for the hotel, I hope to help enhance the experience for The Peninsula guests.
FRAGRANCE NOTES
Red Apple, Spiced Berries, Exotic Florals
DESCRIPTION & INSPIRATIONS
Top Notes: Tangerine, Apple, Grapefruit Peel
Middle Notes: Floral Bouquet (Orange Flower, Rose, Jasmine, Ylang Ylang)
Base Notes: Sun-ripened Berries, Seashore
Featuring a lush bouquet of Asian florals – orange blossom, jasmine, rose, and ylang ylang – this fragrance is balanced by the essence of red apple, a fruit emblematic of the Midwestern United States. Additional hints of spiced berries and lychee reinforce the aromatic convergence of East and West.
The scent is meant to invoke the essential connection between the home city of The Peninsula Chicago and the home city of The Peninsula Hotels brand (Hong Kong). Both are world-renowned centres of business and culture; both are situated on major bodies of water; and both honour a deep commitment to generosity and service.
“My starting point for creating this fragrance was The Peninsula Chicago’s infusion of Asian graciousness and Midwestern hospitality,” said Russell Weiss, the hotel’s Fragrance Curator. “The floral notes were also inspired by the beautiful hand-woven chrysanthemum flowers that decorate each of the guest rooms.”
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