The Role of Scent in Home Decor: Choosing the Right Candles
When we think of home decor, our minds often go straight to colors, textures, and furniture—but there’s another powerful element that can transform your space: scent. Fragrance not only sets the mood but also enhances the character of your home, making it feel welcoming, comforting, and distinctly you.
At Elm & Fig, we believe that the perfect candle does more than add warmth and light—it brings your space to life through scent. Here’s how to think about fragrance as part of your home decor, along with our favorite scents to inspire your choices.
Why Scent Matters in Home Design
Our sense of smell is closely tied to memory and emotion. A well-chosen candle can:
- Set the Mood: Fresh and citrusy scents energize a room, while warm, woodsy notes create a cozy atmosphere.
- Define a Space: Different scents can give each room its own unique personality.
- Enhance the Aesthetic: The right fragrance complements your decor style—whether that’s breezy and coastal, rich and luxurious, or minimal and serene.
Our Signature Scents: Find Your Perfect Match
Mediterranean Fig & Lemon
This scent is bright and green with subtle earthiness. Perfect for kitchens or dining areas, it pairs beautifully with natural materials like wood and stone, adding a fresh, sun-kissed feel to your space.
Best for: Rustic kitchens, farmhouse tables, and outdoor entertaining spaces.
Blood Orange & Amber
Warm, citrusy, and inviting, this scent offers the perfect balance of vibrancy and depth. It’s ideal for living rooms or entryways where you want to create an uplifting yet grounding ambiance.
Best for: Mid-century modern spaces, eclectic decor, and bold, colorful interiors.
Bergamot & Blood Orange
Clean and crisp with a citrus punch, this scent is a favorite for energizing spaces. Use it in home offices or bathrooms to keep things feeling fresh and invigorating.
Best for: Minimalist settings, spa-like bathrooms, and airy, light-filled rooms.
Lavender & Sandalwood
Soothing and serene, this calming scent is made for relaxation. Place it in bedrooms or reading nooks to create your own personal retreat.
Best for: Bohemian bedrooms, neutral palettes, and cozy corners.
Grapefruit & Mangosteen
Juicy, tropical, and bright, this scent brings a burst of sunshine indoors. It’s especially lovely in creative spaces or sunrooms, adding a playful and lively vibe.
Best for: Coastal decor, creative studios, and summer-ready patios.
Tips for Decorating with Candles
- Layer Scents: Try grouping candles with complementary scents in large spaces to create a multi-dimensional fragrance experience.
- Mix Heights and Vessels: Combine different candle sizes and vessels (like our concrete vessel candles) for visual interest on mantels, coffee tables, or shelves.
- Be Seasonal: Swap out scents to match the season—citrus and florals in spring/summer, woods and ambers in fall/winter.
Final Thoughts
Candles are more than just accessories—they’re an essential part of your home’s story. By choosing scents that reflect your style and needs, you create spaces that truly feel like home.
Explore our full candle collection, including all these scents and more, at elmandfig.com.