Project overview
The large-scale installation gives the uncanny impression of a four-storey Georgian façade folding at the knees, with a ripple running through windows, doors, pipework and brickwork. Standing 5.5 metres high and spanning 13.5 metres, it is Chinneck’s first fully freestanding architectural sculpture, designed to be experienced from every angle.
Behind the illusion is considerable technical complexity. FabSpeed worked closely with Chinneck to develop the fine brick skin, just 15cm deep, which was precision cut, preassembled and installed with minimal disruption. Using a mix of off-site prefabrication and skilled manual detailing, FabSpeed ensured both structural reliability and visual accuracy.
Michelmersh supplied the bricks, drawing from across the Group. Floren Albion wirecut bricks bring soft greys, pinks and reds with a rustic finish, while Freshfield Lane First Quality Multi stock bricks add deeper orange, purple and brown tones. Together, they give the sculpture a rich, handmade character that complements the historic surroundings.
The frame incorporates 4.6 tonnes of repurposed steel, salvaged from the former American Embassy in London and supplied by Cleveland Steel, while bespoke windows from Crittall and carefully formed details such as a bending drainpipe complete the effect. Though playful in appearance, every element has been designed with material integrity in mind.
Chinneck’s interest in brickwork spans more than a decade, and this new work continues his exploration of transforming everyday architecture into something unexpected. Free to view, A Week at the Knees will remain in Charterhouse Square until July 2025, with the potential to tour in the future.
