TAKAMICHI X NINE ORCHARD

About the Partnership

Some decisions are tough to make, while others feel right from the outset. When New York hairstylist Takamichi Saeki of Takamichi Hair was approached by longtime friend, urban developer, and client Andy Rifkin to create bath amenities for the highly anticipated hotel Nine Orchard, there was no hesitation.

“As soon as I saw the team’s development process, I knew it would be a very special project, says Takamichi of the just-opened boutique property occupying Lower East Side’s landmarked Jarmulowsky bank building. “Based on the hotel’s special location, building, and concept, I was ready to go.”

Their shared love of craftsmanship and specialization also made collaborating a natural fit. Rifkin explains, “I picked entrepreneurs who are true local experts in their fields, and are consistent with the ethos of Nine Orchard.” Takamichi adds, “We have both always believed in the importance of quality. Real craftsmanship translates to timelessness, and we’d like to help pass this mindset to the next generation.”  

“The smell of grass can really change, depending on the weather, season, and time of day,” Takamichi says of his inspiration. “I wanted ours to have that same fluid quality, vacillating be- tween strong and subtle depending on the wearer and the environment.” With that in mind, his signature fragrance opens with top notes of bergamot and neroli, followed by a heart of seawater and orange flower. The base is anchored by cedar, musk, and amber for a uniquely soft and alluring scent that defies gender and category.

While many hotel amenity brands, even prestigious ones, license their name and outsource production to make things quickly and cheaply, Takamichi features the original and clean European-made formulas from his namesake collection of shampoo, conditioner, liquid soap, and body lotion infused with his signature green scent developed by Japan’s oldest fragrance house Takasago International Corporation. 

Even the packaging design enlists a considered approach. As Takamichi is motivated by style, not trends, he wanted the bottles to be aesthetically pleasing and timeless as well.

Instead of the tiny, wasteful packaging typically used for hotel toiletries, Takamichi chose generously sized five-ounce bottles in a striking cobalt blue.

These refillable larger bottles help reduce waste, encourage hotel guests to enjoy using them generously during their stay, and will hopefully inspire new self-care rituals at home.

This partnership allows hotel guests to experience Takamichi’s products in a highly curated setting that engages all the senses.

At the end of it all, Takamichi’s goal is simple. After 20 years of working with his clients, understanding their needs, and naturally, touching their hair, he wanted to help them clear through the clutter and simplify their regimens. His products are timeless, well-crafted, everyday essentials that not only ensure good grooming now – but for years to come.

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