In the Cliftonville area of Margate, Kent, there’s a house that looks like it’s collapsing right into its front garden.
But don’t worry—it’s all part of an artistic illusion created by British designer Alex Chinneck.
The installation, called “From the Knees of My Nose to the Belly of My Toes,” turns a run-down house into a surprising and playful piece of public art.
Where Is The House Located?
The house is located on Godwin Road.
It had been left abandoned for over a decade, falling into a state of severe disrepair.
Its ownership was transferred to the local council, and they had plans to turn it into social housing.
However, Chinneck saw an opportunity to create something extraordinary.
He came up with the idea to make it look like the front of the house is slipping away, revealing the crumbling interior underneath.
The Illusion of a Sliding Facade
At first glance, the house seems to be collapsing, with its front facade curving outward and sliding into the front garden.
The crumbling top floor is exposed, revealing the decaying interior that had been hidden behind the original walls.
But it’s all an illusion, meant to challenge how we see things—what’s real and what’s just on the surface.
The Dream Of The Designer
Cliftonville used to be a prosperous district, but like many seaside areas in the UK, it has struggled in recent years.
The decline in domestic holidaymakers, coupled with social challenges, has left the area in a fatigued state.
Chinneck’s installation is a beacon of hope for the community, drawing visitors from the more popular parts of Margate.
The Designer’s Struggle To Receive Support For His Project
The project was entirely self-initiated, with Chinneck spending a year persuading ten different companies to donate the materials, manufacturing capabilities, and professional services needed to bring his vision to life.
The Arts Council also provided funding, covering the labor costs.
The installation itself was completed in just six weeks, with prefabricated panels being assembled on-site.
Why Did Chinneck Choose Margate As The Location For This Project?
Margate is home to the Turner Contemporary Gallery, a symbol of the area’s cultural resurgence.
Yet, Cliftonville, perched “up the hill” from the town center, has not fully benefited from this wave of regeneration.
By placing his artwork in this less-traveled part of town, Chinneck hopes to draw visitors away from the main attractions and encourage them to explore the broader community.
What Makes “From the Knees of My Nose to the Belly of My Toes” Special?
What’s special about this artwork is that it’s right there on the street for everyone to see—no museum tickets needed.
Chinneck didn’t put any signs or explanations on it, so people who walk by might be surprised and curious about what’s going on.
As they get closer, they’ll notice the hole in the top floor, and then realize the whole front of the house is an illusion.
Even though the installation will only be up for a year before the house is turned into housing, it’s already become a local attraction.
People are coming to see it, not just from Margate but from all over.
For the residents of Cliftonville, it’s a reminder that art can pop up in the most unexpected places, bringing a bit of joy and creativity into everyday life.
Chinneck wanted to create something fun and surprising, something that anyone could enjoy, and with “From the Knees of My Nose to the Belly of My Toes,” he’s definitely achieved that.