Co-founder of Maggie’s Charles Jencks, 80

Tributes have been paid to Charles Jencks, the architectural historian who co-founded the Maggie’s cancer care charity.

The 80-year-old, who was given an honorary degree by Dundee University, died at home in London on Sunday.

With his late wife Maggie Keswick, he co-founded the Maggie’s cancer care charity that has commissioned a string of worldfamous architects and won the Stirling Prize.

The first Maggie’s Centre opened in Edinburgh in 1996, designed by Richard Murphy, and was shortlisted for the 1997 Stirling Prize.

There are now 24 centres across the UK and abroad, designed by the likes of Zaha Hadid, Fosters, Frank Gehry, Reiach & Hall, Steven Holl and Ted Cullinan.

Mr Jencks was known for his interest in post-modernism and his books include The Language of Post-modern Architecture, The Universe in the Landscape and The Architecture of Hope. He lectured at more than 40 universities around the world.

He was honoured by Dundee University in 2016 for his charity work.

Mr Jencks was due to chair an event at the Royal Institute of British Architects (Riba) next month at which Ensamble Studio will receive the Riba Charles Jencks Award, set up to honour an individual or practice which has made a major contribution internationally to both the theory and practice of architecture.

Maggie’s chief executive Laura Lee led the tributes, saying: “Charles has been such a pivotal part in developing Maggie’s vision for a different type of cancer care and turning that vision into a reality.

“Over the last 23 years his passion, drive and imagination meant that leading architects from across the world came to build these extraordinary centres, places which have benefited thousands of people with cancer.

“I know Charles will be remembered for his many talents but for me his legacy lies in the contribution he has made to ensuring people living with cancer, and those close to them, have the best possible support.

“Maggie’s would not be what it is without his tenacity, dedication and charisma.”

Mr Jencks is survived by his four children and two step-children.

Charles Jencks