What inspired you to start Maison Nikoui?
Fragrance has always been my passion—a way to turn emotions and memories into something tangible. For years, I dreamed of creating my own brand, but it wasn’t until I teamed up with my co-founders that it became real. Their creativity and vision brought Maison Nikoui to life, and together, we’ve turned a dream into a reality.

How does ‘Schmelly Willy’ influence Maison Nikoui?
As ‘Schmelly Willy,’ I bring a playful, rebellious edge to perfumery. I love bending the rules, pushing boundaries, and delivering scents that surprise and excite. Maison Nikoui is about breaking tradition in the best way possible—making perfumes that feel bold, unexpected, and unapologetically unique.

What’s the process behind creating a Maison Nikoui fragrance?
Every scent starts with inspiration—music, art, a film, or even an imagined character. It’s about translating emotions into aromas. From there, it’s hands-on—experimenting with raw materials, testing, tweaking, and fine-tuning until the fragrance feels alive.

What sets Maison Nikoui apart?
Maison Nikoui isn’t just about perfumes—it’s about experiences. Each fragrance is crafted with passion and designed to evoke curiosity and wonder. We aim to surprise, delivering scents that feel timeless but always with a twist.

If Maison Nikoui had a signature scent for your daily mood, what would it smell like?
Right now, it would be a calming, grounding blend of sandalwood—a meditative scent that feels like a quiet walk through a peaceful forest. Something simple yet uplifting.

If you could create a fragrance for any historical figure, who would it be and what would it smell like?
Cleopatra, no question. Her boldness and charisma would inspire a rich, intoxicating floral scent—Egyptian jasmine at its heart, layered with warm amber and sandalwood. A fragrance as captivating and legendary as she was.

If you could live anywhere for a year, where would it be?
Grasse, France—the heart of perfumery. Being surrounded by the world’s finest ingredients and talent would be a dream. It’s where art and scent come to life.

What meal could you eat every day?
Pizza. It’s the perfect balance of simplicity and indulgence. Add a cold beer, and that’s happiness in a meal.

If you could master any skill instantly, what would it be?
Playing the guitar. I’d love to shred an ‘80s rock solo—music has the same emotional pull as fragrance, and creating it would be incredible.

What song always lifts your mood?
The intro to Be by Common. It’s pure joy—uplifting, positive, and guaranteed to turn any day