Brutalist Architeture – All You Need to Know

A new architectural style called Brutalist evolved in the middle of the twentieth century. The post-war reconstruction focused on construction and raw resources, changing the style. This article looks at brutalist architecture and its role in design today.

What is Brutalism?

The word “brutalism” is thought to come from the French word “beton brut,” meaning unfinished concrete. Many believe Swedish architect Hans Asplund coined the name in 1949 to describe Villa Göth, a brick residential building. The word became widespread after British architectural critic Reyner Banham wrote “The New Brutalism” for Architectural Review in 1955. Banham classified and described the new style in the essay. He planned to publish New Brutalism: Ethic or Aesthetic In 1969. Bittoni says that “brutalism” came to mean the movement as a whole. Alison and Peter Smithson, British architects, popularised the name.

Characteristics of Brutalism

Brutalist structures often make use of raw materials such as steel, brick, and exposed concrete. Brutalist buildings typically lack decoration and stark geometric shapes, which are hallmarks of minimalist architecture. The emphasis is on the building’s structural integrity and practicality rather than its aesthetics in a functionalist design. Brutalist structures are often massive and ostentatious.

To understand brutalism, one must grasp its design elements. While not exhaustive, the following elements usually apply:

Huge, often odd geometric shapes
Clean lines
Rough, raw surfaces
Exposure of concrete and other building materials
Palettes with one colour
Modular sections

History of Brutalist Architecture

After World War II, brutalism began in the UK and Europe and spread worldwide. Several overlapping events and conceptions led to Brutalist buildings. After the modernist movement, post-war architects confronted new design challenges, including constrained resources. Many new architects thought modernism was just an aesthetic language and built massive, utilitarian structures.

Famous Brutalist buildings and architects

Cité Radieuse, Le Corbusier
The London, England-based Barbican Centre
In Boston, Massachusetts, you may find the Boston City Hall.
London, England’s National Theatre
Located in London, England, the Hayward Gallery

The Future of Brutalist Architecture

The brutalist style of building has its advocates and detractors. While some find its icy, uninviting aesthetic endearing, others adore its daring, uncompromising style. Brutalist structures are still very much present in the world of architecture, even though people have different opinions about them.

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