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The Global Insight

What was Terence Conran famous for?

Author

Christopher Davis

Updated on February 28, 2026

Sir Terence Conran, the British designer who revolutionised retail and decor, has died at the age of 88. Best known as the founder of Habitat, he brought modern style and simplicity to UK homes in the 1960s and later helped found the Design Museum.

How much is Terence Conran worth?

He opened the first Habitat shop in Chelsea, London and went on to found The Conran Shop. Conrad has also opened more than 50 restaurants over the years. According to the designer’s 2016 book My Life in Design, his net worth was an estimated £85million.

Did Terence Conran own heals?

Habitat grew into a large chain, the first retailer to bring such designs to a mass audience. In the mid-1980s, Conran expanded Habitat into the Storehouse plc group of companies that included BhS, Mothercare and Heal’s but in 1990 he lost control of the company.

Is Jasper Conran Terence Conran’s son?

He is the second son of Sir Terence Conran, a designer, and Shirley Pearce, an author; his parents divorced when he was two years of age.

How old is Jasper?

61 years (12 December 1959)
Jasper Conran/Age

Is Jasper Conran still trading?

“J by Jasper Conran” grew a loyal following through Debenhams over many years, but sadly the 242-year-old department store business fell in to liquidation on 1 December, 2020.

When did Terence Conran start his design business?

In 1956 he formed the Conran Design Group, which, in addition to subsuming his furniture business, designed interiors and retail spaces. Among the nascent atelier’s early efforts was a shop design for fashion designer Mary Quant.

What did Terence Conran do for a living?

In 1974, he published The House Book, which advised its readers how to plan and design a modern home. The Habitat chain eventually formed the nucleus of a retail empire that grew to include first Mothercare, then Heals, Richards Shops and British Home Stores.

When did Terence Conran open his first Habitat shop?

In 1964, he opened the first Habitat shop in Chelsea, London, with his third wife Caroline Herbert, which grew into a large chain selling household goods and furniture in contemporary designs.

Where did Terence Conran open his own theatre?

By 1961, regional development grants from the London county council had lured Terence to start his own factory at Thetford, Norfolk. But this was an ill-starred venture. Instead of manufacturing, retail became Terence’s theatre. Habitat opened on Fulham Road in 1964.