ocated in the marvelous area of Grasse, South of France, the Domaine de la Rose by Lancôme is an iconic place dedicated to protecting, promoting, and celebrating fragrance plants. Acquired by Lancôme in 2020, this human-scale 6-hectare domain is a true treasure where emblematic plants such as centifolia roses, Damask roses, and a multitude of other species are cultivated, including immortelle, iris, jasmine, verbena, and many more. The harvests create Lancôme's most exclusive perfumes, whether limited editions or unique creations.
The Domaine de la Rose by Lancôme is much more than a simple flower garden. It is a place where traditional expertise is shared and celebrated. Visitors can discover the different stages of fragrance plant cultivation, from harvesting to transformation. Antoine Leclef, a perfume plant cultivator at the Domaine, is a passionate grower and the 15th generation of his family to work in agribusiness, deeply attached to the land of Grasse. He ensures that the plants are cultivated with respect for biodiversity, preserving the ecosystem by providing habitats for birds, pathways for hedgehogs, and shelters for bats. The domain is home to 250 species of fauna and flora and actively participates in the LPO (League for the Protection of Birds) in Grasse. A fragrance is a landscape, and fruit trees such as fig, apricot, and olive on the property result in different olfactory outcomes than if the rose bushes were surrounded by lavender.
Roses hold a special place at the Domaine de la Rose. Lancôme has developed a range of perpetual rose-based skincare products cultivated in Valensole by Lancôme collaborator and farmer Madame Ravelle. The roses from the Grasse domain are used to create Lancôme’s iconic perfumes, such as “La Vie Est Belle Domaine de la Rose” and “Maison Lancôme Mille et une Rose.” Rose cultivation, particularly centifolia roses used in perfume creation, is a delicate art that requires precise gestures and meticulous hand harvesting. Each year, the perfume may vary depending on the weather conditions and surrounding plants, making each harvest unique.
Beyond its fragrant purpose, the Domaine de la Rose by Lancôme in Grasse is also an innovation hub. It serves as an open-air laboratory for exploring new ingredients and pushing the boundaries of olfactory creation. Lancôme is committed to developing sustainable practices and reducing its environmental footprint. The domain is dedicated to achieving zero waste by reusing wood as wood chips used at the base of rose bushes and extracting essential oils from rosewood. The clay-rich soil, combined with the Mediterranean climate ideal for fragrance plant cultivation, also contributes to preserving the ecological balance of the domain.
The Domaine de la Rose by Lancôme epitomizes the modern notion of luxury, emphasizing the importance of environmental responsibility and valuing terroir. Lancôme prioritizes rarity and ancestral know-how to create exceptional perfumes. The quality of the roses is paramount, so a team of 5 to 10 people is dedicated to daily picking, with an average of 4 kg per person daily. Each rose is harvested and distilled within an hour to preserve its olfactory richness. Due to the limited production volume, the quality must surpass that found elsewhere. Lancôme creates Haute Couture perfume, particularly within the Grasse region, at the Domaine de la Rose.
Lancôme takes pride in its local collaborations and commitment to Grasse’s heritage, recognized as the world capital of perfume. The Domaine de la Rose follows this tradition by highlighting the region’s emblematic plants and preserving ancestral know-how. UNESCO inscribed Grasse as an intangible cultural heritage, recognizing the region’s history and perfumery expertise.
The Domaine de la Rose by Lancôme is not just a garden; it is a place of discovery, emotion, and sharing, where visitors can immerse themselves in the fascinating world of perfumes. The perfume organ, used by Lancôme’s creators, is an essential tool for testing and refining perfume recipes. It also immerses guests in the creation process by welcoming them around it. Lucie Careri, the Domaine de la Rose by Lancôme manager, ensures preserving and transmitting this exceptional olfactory heritage.
Designed with a sustainable and Mediterranean approach, The Domaine de la Rose by Lancôme in Grasse is a standout architecture and design project. The building has been awarded the prestigious French label for sustainable Mediterranean architecture, a testimony of its commitment to continuous improvement thanks to a participative guarantee system.
The visionary architects Lucie Niney and Thibault Marca from the NeM agency were behind the conceptualization of the Domaine de la Rose. They embraced a minimalist aesthetic, showcasing natural and locally sourced materials. The rose-colored house, both inside and out, harmoniously blends with its surroundings. The roof is insulated with lavender straw from the estate, ensuring efficient thermal insulation. The enameled pink tiles, crafted by local artisans, add a unique touch to the house. These architectural choices exemplify the estate’s commitment to an ecological and sustainable approach. The Provençal well also plays a vital role in maintaining the house’s climate control and ventilation.
Inside the house, various spaces have been thoughtfully arranged to welcome visitors. An inviting lobby, a versatile lounge, and a dedicated area for the perfume organ are just a few highlights. Additionally, two mezzanines serve as spaces for training or product presentations. The kitchen preserves the house’s spirit, while a dedicated office ensures the smooth management of the estate. A spectacular room called the distillery, which looks like a cellar, is located below the house with a mesmerizing view over the rose fields where they extract the essences of perfume plants. The work surface is covered with gold leaf, a handmade work by a craftsman.
The Domaine de la Rose’s garden, created by Antoine, offers a distinct ambiance compared to the cultivated fields. A monolith symbolizing elegance and the power of nature serves as a centerpiece. Natural materials such as straw, cotton, and stone are artfully incorporated into the furniture, harmonizing with the environment. To illuminate this exceptional architectural ensemble, the Domaine de la Rose has chosen Flos luminaires designed by the German designer Konstantin Grcic, based in Munich. These lighting fixtures add a contemporary and elegant touch, perfectly complementing the desired aesthetic.
Next September, during the Heritage Days on September 16th and 17th, the Domaine de la Rose by Lancôme will welcome the public for free guided domain tours. Groups of up to 25 people will have the opportunity to discover the wonders of the place four to five times, organized each day. More than a thousand visitors have been welcomed to the Domaine de la Rose, including students from the Perfumery Higher School and EDHEC Nice.
The Domaine de la Rose by Lancôme in Grasse is more than a fragrance plant cultivation site. It is a valid showcase of expertise, creativity, and environmental respect. Lancôme makes every effort to preserve and promote the fragrant heritage of the region, relying on sustainable practices and local collaborations. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in this enchanting universe and discover the secrets behind Lancôme’s most exclusive perfumes. It is a sensory and cultural experience not to be missed.
