Plain Simple Useful: The Essence of Conran Style

by Terence Conran

Terence Conran has always believed that objects - and surroundings - that are plain, simple and useful are the key to easy living. By being practical and performing well over time, they are as much the antidote to superficial styling as they are to the shoddy and second-rate. Applied to the home as a whole, this discerning approach results in interiors that are effortlessly stylish, confident and timeless, with plenty of room for the expression of personal taste.

Plain Simple Useful is organized according to the main activities that take place at home. Inspirational interiors, many of which are Conran's own, and a number of projects designed by him exclusively for this book, provide all the guidance you need to tailor-make your own storage. The book also features iconic examples of classic designs that will enhance any home, as well as a peek behind the closed doors of those well-ordered closets, pantries, and other storage spaces that contribute so much to easy living.

Genres: Nonfiction, Design, Art

224 pages, Hardcover

First published May 12, 2014

About the author

Sir Terence Conran was educated at Bryanston School, Dorset, and trained as a textile designer at the Central School of Arts and Crafts in London. Hand in hand with his much-publicized career as an arbiter of good taste for a whole generation goes a career in cookery and restaurant management. Having learned the basic skills in the kitchens of a two-star Parisian establishment, he opened several small restaurants in London.These were later sold to finance his fast-expanding furniture business, from which grew the hugely successful Habitat stores. No-one has had a greater influence on contemporary living style than Conran. From the outset of his career, in the brilliant era of the '60s, he devoted his talents to interpreting the home-making aspirations of the bright, busy people of his generation - and to providing them with an excellence of craftsmanship and design at a price they could afford.

Reviews

[Ashley · Rating 3 out of 5]

A somewhat beside the point note: The dedication at the beginning of the book is cringe inducing.

[Mary · Rating 2 out of 5]

Pretty pictures in here to be sure, but it feels very much like an old British man who has never heard of Pinterest is explaining minimalism to me like I'm an idiot. Fair enough, but not a very useful book for me.

[Rob GQ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25
Not so useful

[Theresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Borrowed this from " Miss Judy"our lovely librarian. Love this guys' style and will have to read something else by him. Declaring 2015 "The Year of the Purge".

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is precisely what the title claims plain simple and useful.
There are some appealing design ideas and elements and though I admire aspects of minimalism, my creative tendencies make me somewhat of a collector. Which is why I enjoy these books, looking for ideas and inspiration in keeping enough of what I like/need in some kind of aesthetically practical fashion!

[Relyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one was good, but not great.

[Carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. I love things that are simply beautiful and the natural elements in these designs. The off notes for me was much of thwart work I didn’t like (and I know, that’s such a subjective thing) and also wasn’t on board with his love of plastics.

[Eliza Shaw · Rating 3 out of 5]

Glad I read it, but some of his tips and suggestions were really expensive, which didn't seem to fit within the rest of his "plain simple useful" messaging.

[Georgina · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very beautiful book, which in itself fulfils the title. Full of gorgeous images that made me want to rearrange every room in my house, the book also contains a lot of useful information on making the different areas of your home very serviceable. The general text is interspersed with interesting pages focused on items that are design icons - from the Kilner jar to the Glo-Ball light - some things I own and can now perceive as simplistic perfection and some things I will forever covet from afar, for as Terence Conran candidly points out - simple does not mean cheap! There are also links to online plans for pieces to make yourself, which seemed a jolly addition. I was relieved to see that Conran does not conflate 'plain, simple, useful' with minimalist. This book shows interiors that are supremely tasteful, and fulfil the premise of the title, but that look lived in - albeit in serenity and style! There is the encouragement to create beauty for its own sake with displays of art and objects of interest, but also to address issues such as storage and lighting, materials and layout, with an eye to design, not just functionality - but equally, with a mind for practicality not just looks! I have deducted one star for the over-reliance on white, but, in simply being reminded to take the time to consider multiple aspects of design, I feel inspired to make better choices and to make my home a place of loveliness and efficiency!
I was given this book via NetGalley in return for a completely unbiased review.

[Laura Haske · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love design books. This aesthetic is not for everyone, but it's definitely for me. The structure of the book was plain and simple too. Lots of pictures and short, simple descriptions and design tips. I especially liked the highlight of certain iconic and classic designs of furniture and household items.

[Katherine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mostly looked through the photos---I'm more a visual person than a word person, really. The design is very simple, neat and organized with favorite collections of objects highlighted in each space.

[Heather · Rating 3 out of 5]

I got a few good ideas and several reminders out of this book but I'm glad I paid only $6 at a used bookshop.