[2][4] He was taught etching by Frank Brangwyn at the Architectural Association and when his articles were finished, joined Sir Aston Webb, in whose office he remained for eight years.

[6] His design was altered significantly before construction began, including the familiar semicircular terrace being moved from the land to the river-side of the building.

[7] Construction was held up by the First World War, during which Knott worked on designs for Royal Air Force bases, and partially completed in 1922 (except for the northern third).

[9] In the years before World War I Knott's work included the design and erection of mansions in the Westminster and Chelsea districts of London.

[5][10] After the opening of the London County Hall, at the southern end of Westminster Bridge, Knott built other notable buildings, including two departmental office blocks at Stormont near Belfast.