Karim Mekhtigian Unveils 'SIN' Fragrance at Cairo Design Week 2025
- Publish date: Tuesday، 25 November 2025 Reading time: 1 min read
Karim Mekhtigian unveils SIN fragrance at Cairo Design Week blending ancient traditions with modern artistic exploration
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Cairo Design Week featured a conceptual fragrance installation this year as Egyptian designer Karim Mekhtigian introduced SIN, his first scent under Analogue Olfactory. The presentation took place at Tamara Haus in Downtown Cairo, framed as an artistic exploration rather than a traditional product launch.
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Mekhtigian’s installation drew from centuries-old fragrance traditions in Ancient Egypt and Rome, where perfume carried spiritual or symbolic meaning. Inside the restored mansion, visitors were guided into a “confession booth” that formed the centre of the experience.
The designer referenced historical influences behind SIN, noting that “It comes from ancient civilizations… especially in the Roman Empire. It was considered the scent of the flesh, and was considered sinful because it attracts.” He also remarked, “As I have seven pheromones in my perfume, it is also sinful.”
According to Mekhtigian, the fragrance blends contrasting notes including fig, pineapple, chili berries, pink pepper, black pepper, elemi, cloves, and lily of the valley, with solar accord, vanilla cream, and patchouli forming the base. The bottle features a minimal black design consistent with his broader design aesthetic.
The event also highlighted Mekhtigian’s involvement in Downtown Cairo’s ongoing creative redevelopment. “It’s in Downtown, it’s in Tamara Building, which is the result of our company, Alchemy Experience, in collaboration with Ismaelia,” he said, noting the area’s growing concentration of creative industries. “I am trying to shape our reality a little bit… by doing this kind of things.”
The installation was part of Cairo Design Week’s continued focus on multidisciplinary design, performance, and experimental work.