VAKlab, the expertise and service center of Bokrijk, set out to create a home fragrance that captures the essence of the Bokrijk forests. With subtle woody tones and earthy accents, the fragrance evokes the natural beauty and tranquility of the woodlands, offering a sensory connection to the surrounding environment.

This unique product not only reflects the nature of Bokrijk but also pays tribute to the tradition of woodworking and innovative craftsmanship. It was developed as part of the BKRK-award #WOOD initiative. By collaborating with artisans, designers, and artists, VAKlab once again demonstrates its mission: to promote innovative and sustainable craftsmanship with respect for tradition and the future. Bringing together Peter De Cupere and Nauwau for this project exemplifies how our craftsmanship program can connect designers, makers, and entrepreneurs.
– Igor Philtjens, chairman of the Bokrijk Domain Association and deputy for Tourism and Heritage

Inspired by Bokrijk’s Forests
The fragrance composed by olfactory artist Peter De Cupere features subtle notes of oak, cedar, and maple, reflecting the essence of the surrounding environment. The scent invites a sensory experience, transporting you to the heart of nature, whether at home or in the office. “The 550 hectares of forest and the Arboretum in Bokrijk inspired me”, says De Cuppere. We extracted scent molecules from the wood types and transformed them into a fresh, natural fragrance that brings people to the Bokrijk forest. It was an honor to realize this project.”

Innovative Scent Diffuser Design
The wooden holder, designed by the wood atelier Nauwau, is equally innovative. Crafted from European walnut wood, the holder functions as a diffuser using Nauwau’s unique ‘hair technique.’ This technique, applied to wooden objects turned in the Bokrijk woodworking shop, retains the fragrance. By spraying the perfume onto the fine wooden “hairs,” the scent disperses subtly throughout the room.
Rayah Wauters from Nauwau explained: “The theme of wood is close to my heart as a maker. The hair technique, an artisanal process I developed earlier, was used to create an object that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. What makes it even more special is the collaboration between different craftsmen to bring this product to life.”

Collaboration of Craftsmanship
Bokrijk’s woodworkers also played a significant role in this project, creating the turned wooden holders, much of which took place within the Bokrijk domain itself. “This project is a perfect example of collaboration between designers and makers,” said one of the Bokrijk woodworkers. “We are proud to have contributed and to showcase Bokrijk’s craftsmanship in this way.”

The home fragrance, along with its wooden holder, is available for purchase through bokrijkshop.be for €145. A miniature version for small spaces or cars is also available for €40.

To Be Continued
The story of this unique object doesn’t end here. Thanks to its modular design, other makers and designers can further expand the collection with new themes and materials. Product designer and ceramicist Liane Castermans is working on a follow-up design, reusing prototypes from earlier projects and incorporating clay or loam from Bokrijk’s soil. Her contribution will be unveiled in September 2025.