Scented gardens: how to create a space that awakens memories through aromas

Gardens have long been synonymous with well-being, contemplation and connection with nature. More than beautifying spaces, they can awaken sensations through colors, textures and, especially, aromas.

For those who find in the scent of plants a way to relax and slow down, olfactory gardens are a way to make landscaping even more engaging.

Nãna Guimarães - Jardim Bem-Estar. Projeto da CASACOR Minas Gerais 2026. (Gustavo Xavier/CASACOR)

The idea is simple: choose species capable of perfuming the projects and distribute them strategically throughout the space, creating an experience that goes beyond sight. Flowers, herbs and aromatic foliage can transform a pathway, a balcony or a small garden into a fragrant retreat, where each step reveals a new sensation.

What are olfactory gardens?

Olfactory gardens are spaces designed to stimulate the sense of smell through the strategic choice of aromatic and fragrant plants. The proposal is part of the concept of sensory landscaping, which seeks to create projects capable of engaging different senses simultaneously.

Catê Poli e João Jadão - Praça Paulista Augusta. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2022 / (Renato Navarro/CASACOR)

In this type of project, fragrance is no longer a detail and becomes part of the composition. Selected species can create different aromatic layers, which change according to the season, the weather and the time of day.

Choosing the species is essential

One of the most effective ways to create an olfactory garden is to combine species with varied fragrances. Jasmine, lavender, rosemary, basil, mint, gardenia, night-blooming jasmine and lady of the night are some possibilities, but the choice should consider the specific conditions of the space.

Bia Abreu - Jardim o Tom do Amanhã. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2024. (MCA Estúdio/CASACOR)

It is also worth thinking about the intensity of each aroma. Highly fragrant species can work as focal points, while aromatic herbs help create a more delicate and everyday experience.

Create pathways for a complete experience

The arrangement of the plants makes all the difference in an olfactory garden. After all, there is little point in having fragrant species if they are far from circulation areas.

Zanardo Paisagismo - Jardim do Círculo de Pedras. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2025. (Bia Nauiack/CASACOR)

A good strategy is to place aromatic plants close to pathways, benches, doors, windows, and gathering areas. This way, contact happens naturally as you pass by, without needing to touch or pick the plants.

Another possibility is to create a path where the aromas appear little by little. More delicate plants can be placed at the beginning, followed by species with a more striking fragrance, creating a kind of olfactory narrative throughout the garden.

Think about aromas at different times of day

The garden can change completely throughout the day. Some species release their fragrances with greater intensity in the morning, while others stand out in the late afternoon or at night.

(Fulvio Ciccolo/Unsplash/CASACOR)

That is why it is worth observing the times when the space is used before defining the project. In a garden intended for relaxation at the end of the day, for example, species that intensify their fragrance during this period can take center stage.

Also think about textures

Smell doesn't have to be the only sense involved. Foliage of different textures, flowers in varied colors, and elements such as water, stones, and wood can complement the experience.

Ana Lui e Karen Marini - Jardim Respiro. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2026. (Camila Santos/CASACOR)

In addition, aromatic plants can be strategically distributed to prevent different fragrances from overlapping. The idea is to create a balanced composition, in which each species has space to stand out.

Create a garden that tells stories

Fragrance has an especially powerful relationship with memory. A certain aroma can bring back childhood, a trip, or even the home of a loved one. That is why an olfactory garden can be much more than a landscape composition. Even better if it can awaken affection.

Marina Campanhã Paisagismo - Pátio Formosa. Projeto da CASACOR Piauí 2026. (Felipe Petrovsky/CASACOR)

When choosing species, think not only about their appearance, but also about the sensations they awaken. The result is a garden made to be observed, walked through, and, above all, lived.

This text was developed with the help of CASACOR Publisher, an exclusive content agent developed by the CASACOR Technology team based on the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. The generated content was subsequently edited by Yeska Coelho.