Asphalt Books
Wedged between the new developments and heritage packed streets of Naarm’s/Melbourne’s city centre, lies the Nicholas Building. It’s vast levels and twisting chapters of tiled hallways invite visitors to step into something of a twilight zone with every level offering arcades of art that vary from vintage stores, metaphysical supplies to installations. Tucked neatly on Level 4, exists Asphalt Books. Like a storybook cottage warmed by a little furnace, they are home to shelves and stacks of a curation of second hand works of writing. Armani, Asphalt’s owner offers us insight into the backbone that operates the store, the careful care behind it’s composition and it’s residence in the Nicholas Building.
Armani, at 23 years old is the sole proprietor and owner of Asphalt Books since purchasing it from its previous owner in 2023 when it was under ‘Bond Street Books’. After moving from Queensland to Melbourne in 2021 in hopes of meeting like-minded people and finding a place in the film industry “or any creative industry” for that matter, Armani along with managing the bookstore, too writes for and helps run a local film newsletter called ‘KinoTopia’.
What’s the inspiration behind your store? What encouraged you to turn passion into business?
I am inspired by everything - stories, art, music, film and people I meet. I love having a meeting place to share these things and help others fuel their passions, whatever that might be.
What’s interesting and drawing about the Nicholas Building?
The Nicholas Building is a special place for many people. I am drawn to pockets of calm amongst the city. It also seems to draw in a certain kind of curious person, who are a pleasure to have in the shop.
Specific to your experience working within the Nicholas building or as a bookstore, do you have any favourite takes- niche challenges, quirky customers or such?
I could talk all day about these two things in particular... Lets just say they keep me on my toes and constantly humble me, but they are the reason I have lasted this long.
How do you build a relationship with the community and customers?
I like to think this is a relationship which comes naturally between like minded characters. It’s all time, place and a little bit of passion. Believing that if someone is there they are interested and they care. Listening. Being open minded. Participation. Reflection. Now more than ever I appreciate sharing things in a physical space, that is the reason I have a physical shop and keep my online presence to a minimum.
How do you source your books? Is there a system with curation?
I hand pick every book. I make sure to maintain the classics and popular novels from the 19th and 20th century, but I also tend to pick up things I have never heard of, but feel like something special or interesting. Every day there is something new.
Asphalt Books, Nicholas Building, Level 4, Room 23/37
The store has an immediately comforting setting, in its intimate space, bookshelves and fireplace- is curating the aesthetic of the store something that was intentional? If so could you expand?
It was a given that the way I presented the store was going to be an important part of the business. I was very excited to have creative control, however many of my acquisitions and design choices are largely determined by affordability, so it has taken a rather organic and slow development. As a result, the only intention I have is to reduce visual noise, make it a calming environment and maximise space to bring in more stock.
Additionally, what do you want visitors/customers to take away?
I hope they feel inspired. Be it a book, an interaction or a spontaneous feeling, I hope they feel welcome and inspired to learn, share or be more curious.
Who inspires you artistically? Do you have any literary favourites?
Many of my friends, who are talented writers, artists and musicians, along with their constant and endless supply of incredible recommendations. Cinema, personally, is my primary source of inspiration at the moment.
What are your takes on supporting second hand businesses? + How do you define that importance?
I don’t have any hot new takes… I just believe that they are the most interesting and sustainable way to engage with quality arts. There is so much still to discover and the quality of books, clothes and other crafts is astounding and very important to thinking about making anything today. They are tangible memorabilia of history. Everything should be loved until death.
How would you define the differences that set you apart from other stores in such a creative and wide city?
The very thing that makes it difficult also makes it possible. The more creative people and businesses in a city, the more of a dialogue there is between them. Almost every suburb has a bookstore, if not a second-hand one. I am very lucky to be in a building which represents a place for boutique, specialty or retro stores, which helps people define the concept of the shop.
What’s the best part about being a bookseller?
I’ll say it again, it really is about those who constantly support me, old and new.
As an independent seller, what are the challenges that come with this?
Maintaining quality stock is always the biggest challenge, along with my general freedom as an individual. These go hand in hand. At this stage, I am the only person to open and close the store, and the only person to find new stock. Unlike a new bookstore which can order from the supplier, there is a lot more chance involved, energy and hours spent trying to ensure I can bring new and exciting books to my customers, as well as replacing the classics. I say this with gratitude, for I have chosen to operate like this and I love working for myself.
How can independent stores be supported?
Every time you think of buying something new or from a big company, check to see if you can find a second hand version first. You’ll most likely find something better quality, more unique and cheaper.
Fancy a new read or in search of a local business to support? Find what you’re looking for at Asphalt Books.
Nicholas Building, Level 4, Room 23/37 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000