Blending scent and spectacle for Escentric Molecules

Escentric Molecules Liberty Takeover

Escentric Molecules marks 20 years with a bold, immersive takeover in Liberty London.

Design + Production

StudioXAG

Photography

Mitsi Moulson

Escentric Molecules at Liberty Atrium | StudioXAG

Challenge

Escentric Molecules wanted to celebrate their 20th anniversary by transforming Liberty London’s expansive atrium into a science-inspired sensory environment that would capture attention in their biggest activation yet.

They wanted to embody their molecular fragrance philosophy through a bold visual narrative, guide visitors effortlessly through the activation space, and create an immersive pop-up experience that would leave a lasting impression.

Insight

Escentric Molecules sits at the intersection of molecular science, synaesthesia and minimalism. To capture this, we explored how abstract elements like touch, colour and motion could express fragrance in a way that felt emotional, not explanatory.

We drew inspiration from the brand’s visual cues — binary code, vivid pigments, fluid forms — and used these to shape a space where physical interaction could drive storytelling. Everything had to feel intuitive, elevated and unmistakably Escentric.

Solution

We designed and delivered a one-of-a-kind immersive activation in the Liberty atrium, engineered around a seamless, sensory customer journey.

At the centre, a circular table features a bespoke molecular screen that responds to touch. As customers interact, the screen displays swirling animations that resolve into one of the brand’s signature colours, each mapped to a specific fragrance which was developed with our partners VAST.

Once a scent is assigned, the mechanical drawers integrated into the table open automatically to reveal the perfectly matched sample.

The walls integrate the brand’s minimalist visual language with storytelling elements, while the hidden binary code structure adds a layer of meaning and discovery for those who engage more deeply with the space.

The activation combines digital interaction, tactile mechanisms, and molecular storytelling to deliver an immersive, future-facing brand experience, making the science of scent tangible.

"The team came up with real-time solutions and worked really well to create our vision."
Millie Devine, Global Head of Marketing at Escentric Molecules