Sir Terence was a trailblazing innovator, a celebrated architect, designer, restaurateur and writer. Revered all over the world, he was a great British success story and was at the forefront of ushering in a bold new era of contemporary design. He leaves a formidable legacy, which future generations will continue to enjoy and uphold.
A proud patriot, Sir Terence promoted the best of British design, culture and the arts around the world and at the heart of everything he did was a very simple belief that good design improves the quality of people's lives. He enjoyed a remarkable life to the full and always maintained that his work never felt like a job - everything he did for business he would have done for pleasure.
Sir Terence launched The Conran Shop in 1973, both embracing and activating his fundamental belief that great design should be available to everyone. He relocated The Conran Shop to Michelin House, Chelsea, in 1987, rehabilitating the iconic building and single-handedly initiating the regeneration of Brompton Cross. The opening of a second London store, in Marylebone, also instigated the revival of Marylebone High Street.
His influence truly spans the globe, and his unique landmark stores continue to grace France, Japan and South Korea, while his design intuition, passion and enduring fervour for retail remained undimmed throughout. Often described as modern Britain’s tastemaker, Sir Terence’s insatiable commitment and far-reaching vision sparked inspiration and aspiration in so many around the world.
British businessman Javad Marandi, whose family acquired The Conran Shop from Sir Terence earlier this year, said: “Sir Terence Conran is a design and lifestyle icon and a hero of the contemporary age. We will miss him greatly. It has been an honour and a pleasure to work with him, and I am so grateful to him that he stayed involved until the end. It continues to be a unique privilege to propagate Sir Terence’s incredible contribution, and we will do everything in our power to ensure his work and guiding principles endure for generations to come. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family at this difficult time.”
“The Conran Shop will proudly continue his legacy, whilst missing his wonderful insight, unique talent, transformative leadership and flamboyant personality.”
Hugh Wahla, CEO of The Conran Shop.
