In 2011, we were honoured to collaborate with one of Britain’s most influential design figures, Sir Terence Conran, who created the Hector Bibendum Table Light to mark Original BTC’s 21st anniversary and the centenary of the Michelin Building.

The only external designer we have ever worked with, Terence brought his unmistakable vision to the project, uniting British manufacturing with a distinctly modern design sensibility. 

An icon of contemporary British design, Terence Conran has long championed the idea that well-designed products and thoughtfully considered interiors can enrich everyday life.

Through The Conran Shop and his celebrated restaurants and hotels, he has shaped the way generations live with design, combining functionality, clarity and wit in equal measure.

It is a philosophy that resonates deeply with our own. Even in our name, Original BTC, there is a clear statement of intent: to create enduring British designs rooted in authenticity, craftsmanship and longevity, pieces made not for a season, but for a lifetime. 

“I have used Original BTC’s classic lights for over 20 years. The Conran Shop was one of the first retailers to stock their products, many of which can be spotted in our restaurants, hotels and contract projects.” Sir Terence Conran.

A playful interpretation of our bone china Hector design, the Hector Bibendum brings character to the lamp’s clean, architectural lines.

Created to celebrate 100 years of the Michelin Building, the remarkable 1911 landmark on Fulham Road and former Michelin headquarters, the light draws inspiration from the iconic Michelin Man, formally known as Monsieur Bibendum.

The design echoes the figure’s distinctive rings of tyres, paired with our signature bright red cotton-braided flex, resulting in a piece that feels both timeless and joyfully irreverent.

Such was the success of the Hector Bibendum that our Founder, Peter Bowles, and his son Charlie, Director, went on to develop the collection further. Wall, floor and pendant versions followed, alongside two additional sizes and four new cotton-braided flex colours: yellow, green, navy and turquoise.