Nadine Raschle
Portfolio
2025
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Das Parfüm
I created a complete editorial design for Patrick Süskind’s Perfume, covering the entire process from cover design to layout and typographic concept. The challenge was to visually translate the essence of the novel, its sensory depth and obsession with scent, into a contemporary, thoughtful design system.
Task
Develop an editorial design that reflects the core theme of the book — scent — while offering an immersive and informative reading experience. This included designing the cover, establishing a consistent typographic hierarchy, and integrating additional content in a way that feels organic rather than disruptive.
Concept
The design takes inspiration from the metaphorical weight of scent in the novel. Typography becomes the primary storytelling tool: character names appear repeatedly in the footer, forming a subtle typographic “scent cloud” that drifts through the pages. This element mirrors the protagonist’s obsession and creates a continuous, invisible presence—just like a fragrance.
Solution
The final layout combines classic readability with experimental details. Margin notes provide contextual background on historical, cultural, and geographical topics — from perfume — making techniques to life in 18th-century Paris — enriching the reader’s understanding without overwhelming the narrative.
The cover design, understated yet evocative, reflects the tension between beauty and darkness that defines the novel. Through these elements, the book becomes both a literary and visual experience, engaging the senses beyond text alone.