U magazine - Spring 2008 - The Honolulu Advertiser


Smell is a sense often forgotten when creating ambiance in the home. Yet it has an uncanny ability to evoke mood and memory. Just as fragrance is an important aspect of personal stye in your accessory arsenal, it also can be a form of self-expression in your living space. Whether layering a single scent throughout the home or using a different scent in each room, fragrance can transport you and your guests to a place that's relaxing, energizing, sensual, exotic or whatever mood suits your fancy. ~Paula Rath



Incense is among the world's oldest forms of scent. Here, Kyo-zakura incense in Kyoto Cherry Blossoms, $5.75, with a plum leaf holder, $29.96, from Sedona, Ward Centre. A hidden secret that creates the magic of scent: a little ring that sits on a light bulb; when fragrance oil is added, the scent blooms. A Kalahari light bulb diffuser, $3.50, and fragrance oil, $8.50, from Crabtree & Evelyn, conjure up a green woody fragrance mingling African acacia wood with savannah grasses, exotic wild berries and the scent of sun-baked sand. Lavender drawer liner is a treat for linens, lingerie, T-shirts or socks, $19.80, Crabtree & Evelyn. Alora Ambiance was the first fragrance diffuser in the United States, created by Annie Hope of Palolo, who first experienced the concept in Italy. The reeds diffuse the fragrance. It comes in a dozen scents and is a favorite of a number of Hollywood celebrities. Isola is a tropical blend of tuberose, gardenia and Italian fig. This 16-ounce size lasts four to six months, $80, Baik Designs, Pualani. Linen spray scents clothes during ironing or in a closet or drawer. This one is relaxing Lavender, $18, Crabtree & Evelyn. This decorative scented amulet releases a subtle scent into the air. Kalahari, $24, Crabtree & Evelyn. Spray a little home perfume into a room and voila, you're transported to a lemon orchard in Italy. Verbena, $25,L-Occitane. Spice up your life with tea lights one in every room or several clustered together for a stronger scent. Ginger tea lights, $18.85, Origins. Scented botanicals or potpourri look pretty and can be refreshed with a drop of scented oil. This Kalahari medley includes pumpkin, tamarind and mahogany pods, $35, Crabtree & Evelyn.