In How to See, Thich Nhat Hanh discusses how we often embellish our perceptions, mistaking our inner visions for reality. This subtle process can be tricky to recognize. Taking a winding path up a hill, we eventually reach a quiet neighborhood, far from the city buzz, where the only sound is our footsteps. On this winter afternoon, sunlight streams through the glass windows of Nocturnal Stationery, illuminating the potted plants nearby. “These are my wife’s. Since we created this space, it’s become her gardening corner,” says ToPong, the shop’s owner. Nestled in a peaceful corner of Tsuen Wan, this stationery store feels almost surreal, despite the occasional rumble of passing trucks. It prompts the question: is this a dreamlike quality of reality, or simply a trick of perception? Within this space, the blurred lines between reality and perception create a unique experience.
社區小店有一種好處，就是會隨著時間會變成區內街坊的聚腳點，每次看到大家下班或回家前特意進來逛逛和找我聊天，我也會很高興，而最有趣的地方是，部份客人會因為文具而傾談起來。最初在店外擺放了一塊「Let the good things connect us」的 A字板，是希望用好的東西連結不同的人，到現在發現這連結原來不只是我跟客人，連客人與客人之間也能產生連結。
OB: What inspired you to open a stationery shop?
ToPong: The idea sparked during the pandemic when my graphic design work took a hit. I figured it was time to dive into something I was passionate about. I’ve always collected stationery, so opening a shop felt like a natural progression.
At the time, my community had loads of schools but no stationery store. With people hesitant to shop in person because of the pandemic, I decided to go online with local delivery. Since my work and delivery hours were mostly in the evenings, I named the shop “Nocturnal.”
OB: Why transition from an online store to a physical location?
ToPong: I noticed this little corner when I moved here ten years ago; it has a unique vibe. When I saw the shop was available for rent last year, I felt it was the perfect opportunity to take a leap. Over time, I’ve connected with local residents and built relationships within the cultural and design scenes.
One great thing about a community shop is that it becomes a hangout spot. I love seeing neighbors pop in after work or before heading home just to chat. Interestingly, some customers bond over stationery itself. I initially put up an A-frame sign outside that said “Let the good things connect us,” hoping to foster connections through quality products. Now, I realize those connections extend beyond me and the customers to the customers themselves.
OB: What’s your philosophy on running a modern stationery store?
ToPong: Through this journey, I’ve realized that many people genuinely love stationery. I think the disappearance of stationery shops might stem from the traditional business model and a narrow view of what “stationery” means. For instance, many claim that no one writes by hand anymore, but is that true? I’ve seen a resurgence in calligraphy, and there’s still a high demand for tools beyond just paper and pens. Times have changed, and so has the role of stationery; it now reflects a lifestyle where quality, texture, and design are key.
I believe a modern shop should offer more than just transactions. Customers often seek an interactive experience rather than merely buying items. Thus, the store should have its own personality; with its unique character, it becomes irreplaceable.
OB: Do you have specific criteria or preferences when selecting stationery?
ToPong: I choose items based on my aesthetic and personal taste. I am especially fond of those with a story or unique qualities. I want to walk into the shop every day and see things I love. When I introduce products, I hope my enthusiasm for stationery resonates with customers—this connection is vital.
OB: Are there any stationery brands you particularly like?
ToPong: I’m a huge fan of Japanese brands Craft Design Technology (CDT) and Stalogy. Both have a strong design ethos. CDT’s philosophy aligns closely with ours: creating a platform that helps people appreciate traditional crafts and design. We’re on a similar path.
OB: Can you recommend one stationery item you love and one you frequently use?
ToPong: I often use Stalogy’s 4 FUNCTIONS PEN, which I carried around long before opening the shop. Its sleek design initially caught my eye, but I later realized it fits my hand perfectly and is super comfortable to use. Plus, as a multifunctional pen, it’s ideal for my graphic design work. I think everyone has that one piece of stationery they hold onto for years, and for me, it’s definitely the 4 FUNCTIONS PEN.
ToPong: For me, stationery is a medium that connects me with like-minded people—something hard to achieve in everyday life. I believe those who appreciate the finer details tend to have kind hearts. In a world filled with critique, it’s increasingly rare to find individuals who take the time to appreciate the beauty around them.
