Kenneth Cheesman (1900–1964) was a British architect and designer renowned for his innovative use of glass in interior design and architecture. Born on February 1, 1900, in Southgate, Middlesex (now part of London), he pursued his studies at the Royal College of Art in London, where he qualified as an architect. (Architecture and Art History Research)
Embed from Getty ImagesEarly Career and Collaborations
In the late 1920s, Cheesman served as chief draughtsman in the London office of architect and designer Oliver Percy Bernard. This role provided him with valuable experience and exposure to contemporary design practices. (Architecture and Art History Research)
Embed from Getty ImagesAssociation with Pilkington Brothers
From 1939 to 1950, Cheesman was the architect for Pilkington Brothers, a prominent glass manufacturing company. During this period, he designed showrooms in cities such as Glasgow, Leeds, Nottingham, St Helens, and London (1934–1937). Notably, he created the interior of the Kirk Sandall Hotel in Doncaster (1934) and a showroom for British Vitrolite in London (1934). (Architecture and Art History Research)
Embed from Getty ImagesThe Glass Train
One of Cheesman’s most ambitious projects was the “Glass Train,” a travelling exhibition for Pilkington Brothers in the late 1930s. This exhibition showcased the versatility of glass in design, featuring walls, floors, and ceilings made entirely of glass. The train’s exterior was adorned with approximately 120,000 miniature glass mirrors, creating a striking visual effect. The Glass Train toured 40 different towns and attracted 400,000 visitors, aiming to demonstrate contemporary methods and stimulate imagination regarding the design properties of different glass products. (V&A Collections)
Post-War Contributions
After World War II, Cheesman continued to contribute to the field of design. He was involved in designing stands for Pilkington at various exhibitions, including the Building Exhibition at Olympia in London (1947), the Engineering and Marine Engineering Exhibition (1949), and the Wallpaper Manufacturers Exhibition in London (1950). Additionally, he played a role in the design of the South Bank Exhibition for the Festival of Britain in 1951. (Architecture and Art History Research)
Legacy
Kenneth Cheesman’s work exemplifies the innovative use of glass in mid-20th-century design, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal. His projects, notably the Glass Train, remain significant in the history of architectural exhibitions and the decorative arts.
Cheesman passed away on March 2, 1964, leaving behind a legacy of creativity and innovation in architectural design. (Architecture and Art History Research)
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