Hamid Merati-Kashani is a renowned perfumer celebrated for his ability to blend Eastern richness with Western precision in his fragrance creations. Born in Germany to an Iranian father and a German mother, he spent his early childhood in Isfahan, Iran, before moving back to Europe following the Iranian Revolution in 1979. This multicultural upbringing has greatly influenced his artistic vision and the olfactory signatures of his perfumes.
Professional Journey
In 1995, Merati-Kashani joined Firmenich, a leading Swiss fragrance and flavor company. He currently serves as a Principal Perfumer and is based in Dubai. His fragrances are known for their boldness and long-lasting effects, often achieved by intentionally “overdosing” certain ingredients to create powerful and memorable scents.
Notable Collaborations
Throughout his career, Merati-Kashani has collaborated with some of the most prestigious names in the fragrance industry, including:
Parfums de Marly, where he created the popular scents Pegasus and Layton.
Carolina Herrera, Jean-Paul Gaultier, Valentino, and Yves Saint Laurent, contributing to many successful launches.
Goldfield & Banks, for which he designed unique fragrances like Silky Woods and Ingenious Ginger.
Fragrance Du Bois, where his work on Oud Rose Intense has been especially praised.
Artistic Philosophy
Merati-Kashani’s creative approach is deeply inspired by Middle Eastern luxury and culture. He has often remarked that in the Middle East, “everything is bigger and more beautiful,” a mindset that resonates in his extravagant and layered compositions. He also appreciates the region’s olfactory traditions, where people often layer and mix scents to create personalized fragrances.
He believes strongly in the value of humility, learning from others, and the importance of generosity in the creative process. For him, perfumery is not just about individual success but about uplifting others and contributing to a shared artistic legacy.
Legacy and Impact
Hamid Merati-Kashani’s impact on the world of perfumery is profound. By merging Eastern opulence with Western structure, he has introduced a unique voice to modern fragrance design. His work continues to inspire new generations of perfumers and fragrance lovers across the globe, making him one of the most influential figures in contemporary perfumery.