Patel Taylor co-founder Andrew Taylor dies aged 64

Patel Taylor co-founder Andrew Taylor has died at the age of 64.

Taylor’s death was announced this morning by the practice which he set up with Pankaj Patel more than 30 years ago.

The firm said: “It is with great sadness that we share the news that Andrew Taylor, co-founder of Patel Taylor and our close friend and colleague, has passed away”.

It added: “For more than three decades, Andrew brought a deep understanding of how we experience spaces to everything he designed, from sitting beside a window to walking through a neighbourhood or meeting a friend in a square.”

Patel Taylor was founded in 1989 and employs around 30 staff. Its major recent projects include a 54-storey tower at 77 Marsh Wall in Canary Wharf and a 547-home redevelopment of the former News International site in Wapping.

“Across our work, Andrew united humanity and materiality through the careful use of materials, craft, light and shade, shaping our shared ambition to create spaces where people could feel comfortable and happy, challenged and reassured, stimulated and calmed,” the firm said, adding: “For all of us at Patel Taylor, these convictions continue to guide how we think and design.”

Stephen Hodder, founding director of Hodder Architects, paid tribute to Taylor on LinkedIn, writing: “So sad and shocked to hear this news. Sincere condolences to Andrew’s family, friends and Pankaj. Rest in peace Andrew.”

Piercy & Company head of operations Charmaine Roberts, who left Patel Taylor in March this year after seven years at the practice, described Taylor as an “unforgettable mentor and driving force of the industry,” adding: “He’ll be sorely missed”.

Nicholas Ellis, architect and director at Studio Ellis + Co, said: “Incredibly sad news. He was an inspiration and role model to me. Deeply saddened by this news. My thoughts go out to his family, friends and all at Patel Taylor.”