The fragrances by Oaken Lab encapsulate fragments of stories and shared memories of founders Cynthia Wirjono and Chris Kerrigan. Each scent is designed and crafted using the finest natural extracts and aroma molecules, and infused into excellent grooming, body care and home products.
STORY BY Vira Tanka | PHOTOS BY IDD
Cynthia and Chris had previous experience in retail and photography businesses respectively before they founded Oaken Lab in 2018. The couple chose the name “Oaken Lab” as oak symbolises unity whilst oak tree grows in various parts of the world and is often associated with integrity and longevity. The name also held nostalgic significance for Chris, the perfumer and product formulator, who spent his childhood in Oak Park, a suburb in Illinois, U.S. Currently, their products are distributed not only in Indonesia but also in the U.S., Slovenia, Singapore, Korea and Malaysia, with plans underway for distribution in Japan.
With regard to the manufacturing process, Cynthia explained, “Whilst we outsource some manufacturing processes, all our products are meticulously crafted by hand. We specifically collaborate with manufacturers that prioritise attention to detail in each product, and we strive to incorporate as many locally sourced ingredients as possible, such as patchouli, vetiver, sandalwood, and many more.”
For their home products, Oaken Lab collaborates with local ceramic artisans, such as the Jakarta-based Ayu Larasati. Their incense stands are made in partnering with Conture Concrete Lab from Bandung, and candle containers are a result of the partnership with Tanakita Ceramics. A collaboration with AlvinT is also in the pipeline.
“We enjoy working with professionals across creative industries. In my opinion, IDD has successfully fostered a community of individuals passionate about creating exceptional designs. We are thrilled to be part of it,” Cynthia said enthusiastically.
OAKEN LAB
Indonesia Design District
Jl. M.H. Thamrin, Unit M-3, Tangerang, Banten 15214
T. +62 822-2362-2020
IG. @oakenlab