In the post-war era, when design began to embrace optimism, color, and modernity, emerged the iconic Chequers pattern—a testament to British creativity and a celebration of the 1950s’ distinctive style. Crafted in 1957, Terence Conran’s Chequers for Midwinter remains an enduring classic, capturing the essence of its time while resonating with generations that followed. We take a look at the Midwinter Chequers pattern along with a price guide of realised pieces at auction.

Design Inspiration

Chequers stands out with its meticulous attention to detail and an innovative use of color and pattern. Linear black checks run the gamut of the design, punctuated by intermittent splashes of green, yellow, grey, or abstract black motifs. This interplay of minimalistic lines with bold patches creates a balanced contrast, ensuring that each piece is as eye-catching as it is sophisticated.

Signature Pieces

The range showcases an eclectic mix of tableware, each adding its unique touch to the collective design narrative. The teapot, a staple in many British households, dons a serene grey hue accompanied by a chequers lid—a subdued yet stylish representation. Meanwhile, the coffee pot, unapologetically bold, wears a striking yellow body juxtaposed with the signature chequers lid. Together, these pieces paint a picture of a time when design began to challenge conventions and tread the line between the contemporary and the traditional.

Midwinter Fashion Style Range

The Chequers pattern found its home within the Midwinter Fashion style range—a groundbreaking collection conceived by Roy Midwinter in 1954. Recognizing the shifting design sensibilities of the mid-century, Midwinter’s range was both a nod to the traditions and a leap into the future. Terence Conran’s Chequers, with its delightful intricacies, found a fitting place in this transformative collection.

Legacy of Terence Conran

While Chequers stands as a hallmark of Conran’s design acumen, it is also a window into the mind of a design legend who consistently broke barriers. Terence Conran, throughout his illustrious career, has been instrumental in redefining British design, making it accessible, functional, and always ahead of its time. The Chequers pattern remains emblematic of an era and a designer who dared to dream beyond the ordinary. Whether gracing a contemporary home or reminiscing in a vintage setting, the Chequers by Terence Conran for Midwinter continues to be a slice of design history.

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