Samuel Ross x Acqua Di Parma : Quand le Moderne Rencontre le Classique

The collaboration between British designer Samuel Ross and Italian fragrance house Acqua di Parma reimagines the classic 1916 Colonia bottle with a bold, industrial design. While the fragrance formula remains unchanged, the redesigned bottles feature vibrant colors like Sun Rise Yellow, Grass Blade Green, and Ultra Orange, inspired by urban elements such as scaffolding and emergency signage. Limited to 300 numbered editions (€220 each), this partnership bridges Acqua di Parma’s heritage with modern aesthetics, appealing to younger audiences. Ross’s minimalist approach respects the brand’s legacy while introducing fresh visual elements, including a "viewfinder" feature that interacts with light to highlight the liquid inside. By combining Italian craftsmanship with Ross’s urban design philosophy, the collaboration redefines luxury for a new generation.

Samuel Ross: Modern Design Philosophy

Samuel Ross views design as an interconnected urban ecosystem. Through his London-based studio, SR_A, and his fashion atelier, A — COLD — WALL* in Milan, he crafts products that resonate with the rhythm of modern city life. From sneakers and watches to furniture and fragrance, Ross’s work reflects a vision where every object contributes to a cohesive, architectural narrative. His approach transforms daily actions into part of a broader design environment, seamlessly blending utility with aesthetic.

Urban and Industrial Influences

Ross finds inspiration in the functional elegance championed by British designer Richard Rogers and Italian architect Renzo Piano. Their high-tech style - characterized by exposed industrial frameworks and practical design - deeply informs his creative language. SR_A even collaborates with architects to incorporate these principles into its projects.

The commute between his London studio and Milan atelier plays a key role in shaping his aesthetic. Ross captures the “sun-glaze” effect on cityscapes, channeling the raw energy of urban environments. His color palette borrows directly from the functional elements of city life: the bright yellows of road markings, the reds of emergency signage, and the textures of safety padding on construction sites. Scaffolding, temporary structures, and brutalist architecture serve as recurring themes, translated into clean, geometric designs and wireframe concepts.

Design Aesthetic

Ross redefines luxury through bold minimalism. He moves away from the muted tones often associated with tradition, opting instead for vivid, ultra-saturated colors that immediately stand out. In March 2023, he reinvented the Colonia bottle, using three industrial-inspired hues. The design featured a “viewfinder” graphic - a rectangular negative space - meant to shift the viewer’s perception of both the fragrance and its surrounding environment. By stripping away traditional labels and replacing them with minimalist typography and a numbering system, Ross introduced what he describes as a "reductionist" take on luxury.

His designs often transform architectural concepts into physical, minimalist objects. Rather than overhauling heritage brands, Ross focuses on “recontextualizing” their traditions to engage younger audiences while respecting their original craftsmanship. This philosophy of bridging generations and perspectives defines his collaborations with established design houses, offering a fresh yet respectful reinterpretation of their legacy.

Acqua Di Parma: Italian Heritage and Craftsmanship

Acqua Di Parma began its journey in 1916, inside a laboratory in Parma, Italy. The brand’s first creation, Colonia, holds the distinction of being Italy’s first Eau de Cologne. It combines Sicilian lemon, Calabrian bergamot, and orange, a blend that has remained untouched for over a century. This timeless formula became the foundation for the brand’s enduring legacy and the inspiration for its later collections.

The Creation of Colonia

Colonia’s unique scent profile merges bright citrus notes with warm woods, creating a fragrance celebrated for its lasting impression. By the 1930s and 1950s, it had become a hallmark of Italian elegance, beloved by Hollywood icons like Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn. These stars were introduced to the fragrance through Italian tailors, who would use it as a refined finishing touch for bespoke suits. Today, the Colonia line offers a range of products, from the classic Eau de Cologne priced at €108 to large-format splash bottles costing €497. A Samuel Ross limited edition is also available for approximately €220.

Italian Artistry and Design

Acqua Di Parma’s commitment to craftsmanship is evident in every detail of its creations. Gabrielle Scarpa, President World at Acqua di Parma, highlights the brand’s dedication to traditional methods:

"We still have someone on the production line fitting the labels on the bottles and fitting the Bakelite lids. The outer packaging, our unmistakable hatboxes, is completely handmade".

The fragrance’s iconic Art Deco-inspired cylindrical bottle has stayed true to its original 1916 design. Its distinctive "Parma Yellow" packaging takes inspiration from the historic building facades that have graced the city since the 1700s. Adding to its heritage, the logo incorporates the coat of arms of Marie Louise, Duchess of Parma, paying homage to the region’s rich history in glassmaking and perfumery.

Every Acqua Di Parma product is crafted exclusively in Italy, often in small-scale laboratories. From Murano glass elements to hand-rolled candles, the brand’s creations reflect a dedication to artisanal excellence. CEO Giulio Bergamaschi encapsulates this ethos:

"Luxury is about the things you can’t buy: time and culture. This is what we inject into all Acqua di Parma creations".

This philosophy extends to the sourcing of raw materials, with a focus on premium, mostly Italian-origin natural ingredients. The Blu Mediterraneo line, for instance, features blue bottles that evoke the essence of the Italian sea and sunshine. Meanwhile, specialized fragrances like "Gelsomino a Freddo" employ ancient cold enfleurage techniques, preserving traditional perfumery practices that connect the brand’s storied past with its contemporary innovations.

The Collaboration: Bridging Two Design Worlds

In March 2023, Acqua di Parma unveiled the "Colonia Limited Edition, designed by Samuel Ross" to a global audience, following its preview at Design Miami. This collaboration brought together Samuel Ross and Paola Paganini, Acqua di Parma’s Head of Product Development, to honor the brand’s 107-year legacy while appealing to a younger demographic. The launch included 300 numbered collector’s editions priced at €186, accompanied by a 160-page art book that chronicled the research and development behind the project. This partnership marked a bold reimagining of the iconic Colonia bottle.

Redesigning Colonia Bottles

Ross took a minimalist approach to the redesign, removing the traditional paper label and replacing it with lettering printed directly onto the glass. He referred to this process as "peeling back the layers" to reveal the essence of the brand. The bottles were introduced in three bold, industrial-inspired colors: Sun_Rise_Yellow (a nod to Acqua di Parma’s signature yellow), Grass_Blade_Green, and Ultra_Orange. These striking, flat hues were influenced by urban visuals such as scaffolding padding, double yellow lines, and emergency signage.

One of the most distinctive features of the redesign is the "viewfinder" - a rectangle of negative space on the bottle that allows light to pass through the liquid, creating a dynamic interplay between the fragrance and its environment. Despite the visual overhaul, the original 1916 citrus formula remains untouched, preserving the essence of the fragrance.

Combining Different Design Approaches

The collaboration strikes a balance between modern innovation and timeless tradition. Ross emphasized the importance of working with heritage brands in a way that respects their legacy rather than upending it. As he explained:

"I think it’s really important to not collaborate with a heritage brand and try and turn everything upside down... It’s about making sure that the dots connect between the new generation and the codes of a house".

The design draws inspiration from the architectural philosophies of Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers, reflecting Ross’s experiences traveling between his London studio and Milan. Beyond the bottle, the partnership extended to retail spaces, such as Selfridges London, where unpolished aluminum shelving and powder-coated fixtures blended industrial design with luxury aesthetics.

This three-year collaboration highlights a growing trend in the fragrance world: established brands teaming up with contemporary designers to engage collectors and younger audiences while staying true to their core identity.

Design Comparison: Modern vs. Classic

The reimagined Colonia bottle serves as a perfect lens to explore the interplay between modern creativity and enduring tradition.

The Samuel Ross x Acqua di Parma collaboration brings together industrial minimalism and Italian artistry. Ross introduces bold, ultra-flat colors like Sun_Rise_Yellow, Grass_Blade_Green, and Ultra_Orange, inspired by urban visuals such as scaffolding, emergency signage, and double yellow lines. On the other hand, Acqua di Parma stays true to its Art Deco elegance, favoring the understated mid-tones that have embodied its identity since 1916.

This contrast extends to architectural influences. Ross draws from Richard Rogers’ high-tech Brutalism, characterized by exposed structures and industrial materials. Acqua di Parma, meanwhile, reflects Renzo Piano’s refined structural designs, favoring subtle sophistication. Despite these differences, both approaches emphasize transparency and precision. As Ross aptly put it, "It’s a meeting of different generations that holds a similar expectation for what detail and craft should consist of".

Comparison Table

One striking feature is the "viewfinder", a rectangle of negative space created by removing the interior label. This design choice allows the liquid inside to become part of the visual experience, blending modern and classic aesthetics. At the same time, the iconic Art Deco silhouette remains unchanged, preserving over a century of Italian heritage while incorporating elements of urban modernity.

This fusion of styles not only reshapes design expectations but also opens the door to fresh conversations about the evolution of fragrance aesthetics.

Market Impact and Fragrance Trends

Updating Heritage Scents for Modern Consumers

The collaboration between Samuel Ross and Acqua di Parma showcases how heritage brands can connect with younger audiences while staying true to their roots. Instead of altering the iconic 107-year-old Colonia fragrance, the partnership focuses on reimagining its visual identity - modernizing the bottle design while keeping the 1916 formula intact. This strategy reflects a broader industry trend of maintaining tradition while updating aesthetics.

Ross’s approach emphasizes making luxury resonate with Gen Z and Millennials by incorporating a sleek, industrial design style. As he explains:

"I spend a lot of time going back and forth between what luxury and heritage mean for our generation, for Gen Z and millennials, and what’s the right way for us to work with it".

This collaboration goes beyond packaging, introducing elements like micro-zines, art publications, and immersive retail installations. These additions transform fragrance into a multi-dimensional experience, aligning with the growing demand for experiential luxury. This approach also ties seamlessly into the rising popularity of limited-edition releases.

Limited Edition Appeal

The luxury fragrance market sees strong growth in collector-focused offerings, with limited editions driving both demand and brand evolution. For instance, in March 2023, Acqua di Parma launched 300 numbered collector bottles at Selfridges London and select boutiques, priced at €220 each. This scarcity-driven approach highlights Ross’s expertise in crafting highly sought-after collaborations, further elevating the brand’s prestige.

Scento: Accessible Fragrance Discovery

Experience Premium Fragrances with Decants

Scento has reimagined the luxury fragrance experience, blending modern convenience with timeless elegance. High-end fragrances like Acqua di Parma’s Colonia, priced at over $300, or the Samuel Ross limited edition at $220 for a limited 300-piece release, can feel out of reach for many. Scento changes this by offering authentic luxury scents in smaller, more affordable formats. Starting at just €3.10 for a 0.75ml sample, these decants make exploring premium fragrances easier than ever.

With a collection of over 1,000 designer and niche fragrances and a stellar 4.8/5-star rating from 19,000 reviews, Scento has captured the attention of younger fragrance enthusiasts. An 8ml decant, offering around 120 sprays, lasts about two months with daily use - perfect for those who want to enjoy luxury scents without committing to a full bottle.

"I used to waste money on full bottles. Now I just buy the refill from Scento. It saves me so much." — Elena R., Verified Customer

This approach not only makes premium fragrances accessible but also encourages a more personalized and flexible way to build your collection.

Curate Your Perfect Fragrance Collection

For around €16 per month, Scento subscribers receive an 8ml authentic decant along with a premium atomizer included in their first order. These portable atomizers echo Samuel Ross’s vision of fragrance as an integral part of a "24-hour cycle", allowing you to carry your favorite scents wherever you go.

Scento also simplifies the process of finding your signature scent. The Scent Curator quiz matches fragrances to your lifestyle and occasions - whether you’re drawn to the classic citrus-lavender harmony of Colonia’s 1916 formula or intrigued by contemporary niche creations. Plus, the option to swap fragrances monthly means your collection can evolve effortlessly, without the financial commitment of purchasing full bottles.

Conclusion

The Samuel Ross x Acqua Di Parma partnership showcases how modern design can breathe new life into a classic legacy. By retaining the essence of Acqua Di Parma’s iconic 1916 Colonia fragrance while transforming its bottle with industrial design elements, Samuel Ross created a "fresh synthesis" of British and Italian modernism. This three-year collaboration demonstrates how a heritage brand can resonate with younger audiences without losing its core identity.

Ross brought a bold vision to the project, incorporating vibrant high-fluorescent tones and unique details like the "viewfinder" graphic. These elements added a sense of urgency and optimism to a fragrance with over a century of history. As Ross described it, "It wasn’t about reducing the brand, it was adding a new tone or texture to each of the keys, which make up the ‘piano’ of the brand". This approach allowed both the traditional and the modern to coexist harmoniously, enhancing both the design and the brand’s appeal.

With only 300 numbered bottles priced at €220, this limited edition has become a true collector’s item. Meanwhile, the timeless Colonia fragrance remains accessible, with Scento offering samples starting at just €3.35.

This collaboration signals a broader trend in the luxury fragrance world, where heritage brands are partnering with contemporary designers to bridge generational gaps. It’s a balance between exclusivity for collectors and approachable options for new enthusiasts, paving the way for a refreshed approach to luxury.

FAQs

What inspired the vibrant colors in the Samuel Ross x Acqua di Parma collaboration?

The Samuel Ross x Acqua di Parma collaboration features a striking color palette inspired by architecture and a vision to bring a modern twist to the brand’s timeless heritage. Drawing from the architectural landscapes of Milan and London, Samuel Ross incorporated elements of brutalism and modernism to craft a bold, forward-thinking design.

The chosen colors - Sun_Rise_Yellow, Grass_Blade_Green, and Ultra_Orange - capture the essence of sunlight, energy, and the dynamic spirit of urban life. This vibrant palette embodies Ross’s approach to design, blending tradition with contemporary innovation to offer a fresh perspective on Acqua di Parma’s classic sophistication.

What is the purpose of the ‘viewfinder’ feature in the Colonia bottle design?

The ‘viewfinder’ feature redefines the Colonia bottle by swapping the conventional label for a window-like frame, drawing inspiration from architectural details found in Milan and London. This design embodies Samuel Ross’s approach to merging modern structural design with Acqua Di Parma’s enduring legacy.

By framing the fragrance as if it were a piece of sculpture, the viewfinder emphasizes Ross’s architectural perspective, introducing a sleek, industrial edge. It transforms the bottle into a modern geometric centerpiece while maintaining its classic sophistication.

Why did the collaboration keep the 1916 Colonia fragrance formula unchanged?

The 1916 Colonia fragrance formula remains untouched in this collaboration, a deliberate choice to honor its long-standing history and enduring charm. Samuel Ross and Acqua di Parma prioritized preserving the fragrance’s signature citrus blend and refined essence, elements that have solidified its status as a classic for over 100 years.

By keeping the original formula intact, the collaboration pays tribute to Colonia’s legacy while pairing it with a modern, updated design. This thoughtful approach ensures the fragrance stays loyal to its origins while resonating with today’s audiences.