Key points
Mood
Scent shapes how people feel in a space, often before they notice it.
Evaluation
Fitting, pleasant scent can improve how people rate an environment.
Memory and return
A distinctive scent makes a place easier to remember.
How scent changes the way people behave in a building
Scent works below conscious attention. People rarely stop to think about how a building smells, yet the scent influences how they feel, how they judge the space and how they remember it. In a commercial building, that affects tenants, clients, prospective occupiers and staff every day.
The published research on ambient scent links pleasant, fitting ambient scent with more positive evaluations of a setting and with people’s willingness to approach and stay in it. The effect depends on fit: scent that clashes with its setting does not help, and can hurt.
What this means for a building
The research describes environments in general, not any single building, so we never promise a specific result. What it shows is that the arrival experience shapes behaviour. A premium, fitting scent supports the impression a Grade A building is built to create. A basic one works against it. So does scent marketing work? In the right setting the research suggests it can, through mood, evaluation and memory, but only when the scent fits.
Behaviours scent can influence
All four are part of the experience delivered through lobby scenting.
How welcome people feel on arrival
How they rate the quality of the space
How comfortable they are spending time there
How well they remember the building afterwards
Designing for behaviour
We plan scent around how people use each zone.
Arrival
A clear, positive first impression in the lobby and drop-off.
Dwell
A calm, consistent character where people wait, meet and work.
Memory
A distinctive signature that people associate with the building.
Frequently asked questions
1. Does scent change behaviour?
Published research links pleasant, fitting ambient scent with more positive evaluations and approach behaviour. Results depend on fit and intensity.
2. Can you guarantee a result in our building?
No. We do not promise specific behavioural or financial outcomes.
3. Can scent work against a building?
Yes. A scent that is too strong, or associated with cheap spaces, can create a negative impression.
4. Why does intensity matter?
Overpowering scent is unpleasant and reads as cheap. Restraint keeps the effect positive.
5. Is the effect the same for everyone?
No. Culture and experience shape how people respond, which is why we consider the audience in every brief.
6. Where can I read more?
Get started
Design the experience people remember
Request a site assessment and we will plan scent around how your building is used.