Putting Pen to Paper: The Creative Renaissance of Stationery

In 2012, Maxime Brenon founded Papier Tigre and soon brought his creations to Maison&Objet. At the time, his brand was a trailblazer in the creative stationery market. “We were among the very first—if not the first—to introduce creative stationery,” Brenon recalls. “It was so new that they didn’t know where to put us.” Ultimately, Papier Tigre was placed in the Fashion sector (Maison&Objet Fashion), presenting notebooks with vibrant colors and striking designs that Brenon likens more to fashion accessories than traditional stationery. “The Maison&Objet team understood our approach perfectly—it was a huge boost for us,” he reflects. “It was the ideal moment because stationery was transitioning from a functional purchase to a delightful indulgence.”

Elegant, Arty, and Playful

Today, Papier Tigre defines its brand as “colorful and uninhibited,” and its products sit comfortably among a diverse range of offerings at Maison&Objet. Established names like Moleskine, Leuchtturm1917, and Charfleet Book Bindery continue to honor traditional craftsmanship while embracing contemporary colors and bold graphics. Special collections and collaborations with artistic brands further invigorate their appeal.
The scene also welcomes smaller, niche players with unique aesthetics. Cité Candide brings a whimsical, poetic touch to its creations, thanks to the playful vision of its founder Audrey Soul. Meanwhile, Félicie Aussi infuses humor into its birthday cards and accessories, branding itself as “a little factory of laughter.” Berlin-based Useless Treasure offers vibrant, nature-inspired patterns, often featuring floral and animal motifs.

Practical, Playful, Aesthetic

“Notebooks and paper are such easy canvases to dress up, so it’s no surprise many graphic designers have ventured into this space,” Brenon observes. This trend has also attracted brands from adjacent fields—names like Hay, Muuto, and Ferm Living have all introduced creative stationery collections alongside stylish desk accessories. Brenon, a pioneer at Maison&Objet, views this growing competition positively. “When a sector has a lot of players, it means there’s real momentum,” he says enthusiastically.
The variety has grown exponentially. Alongside classic notebooks, diaries, and planners, brands now offer intricate gift wrap (Season Paper), architecturally inspired notepads (Omoshiroi Block), efficient to-do lists (Bookbinders Design), elegant storage boxes (Legatoria la Carta), and vibrant sticky notes (Kikkerland).

A Changing Clientele

When Émilie Bessineau launched the concept store Atelier + Maison Kumo in Lille in 2016, stationery was a key part of her vision. Inspired by her background in architecture and Japanese heritage, Bessineau curated a selection of notebooks and pens that complement her store’s offering of home accessories, decor, and small furniture. “I can’t stop myself,” she admits, curating based on personal favorites. Her clientele ranges from professionals seeking beautiful notebooks to students drawn to quirky ballpoint pens. “Planners are especially popular,” she notes, adding that stationery remains an impulsive buy and a go-to gift. Naturally, her selection includes tools and accessories—colorful staplers, brass scissors, desk organizers, and even stylish laptop sleeves.

Why the Revival?

In an increasingly digital world, the resurgence of creative stationery might seem counterintuitive—but not to Maxime Brenon. “At a time when even young people are stepping away from screens, having a notebook lets you disconnect, remember things better, and embrace a slower pace,” he explains. The popularity of Bullet Journals—an organizational system trending on TikTok—shows that younger generations remain intrigued by the tactile charm of paper. “It’s encouraging to see that interest continue,” Brenon says.