Derek Brampton, who died suddenly at his home in Kent on 31st August, will be remembered widely as London's best architectural bookseller.
Soon after starting the Triangle Bookshop in Kennington, London, he and Alan Young were persuaded by Alvin Boyarsky, legendary chairman of the AA from 1971 to his death in 1990, to re-locate to the newly refurbished basement of 36 Bedford Square. The business flourished as part of Boyarsky's vision of an alternative and dynamic Architectural Association. To enter Triangle's doors and browse the books was an essential part of time spent at the AA, made more pleasurable by Derek's informed intelligence, wit and great sympathy for the seeker of knowledge and inspiration. Most of the great names in architecture of this period would linger to chat and exchange gossip with Derek.
The shop closed in 2008 upon Derek and Alan's retirement. However those who knew Derek will remember him more for his great love of the arts, his early training and work in the London theatre, and his deep passion for painting to which he devoted most of his spare time, both at the easel and in visiting museums and exhibitions, always open to adventure.
His warmth, knowledge and spirit will be very much missed. He is survived by his husband and business partner Alan Young whom he met in 1969 and married last year.