The Brutalism architectural style has always been a topic of heated debate. Once considered stark and imposing, its use of raw concrete and geometric shapes is now making a comeback. Fuelled by nostalgia on social media and the success of the Oscar-nominated film “The Brutalist,” this once-maligned aesthetic has stepped back into the limelight.
But Brutalism is no longer confined to just architecture. It is now influencing interior design, furniture, and home décor trends. Whether you want to fully embrace its austere beauty or just add some elements of this striking aesthetic to your home, here’s an overview of its past, present, and future.
Meet the Experts:
Walker McKinley, founder and CEO of McKinley Studios
Trey Trahan, founder of Trahan Architects
Defining Features:
Brutalist architecture and design are known for their bold and straightforward aesthetics. Key characteristics include:
– Raw Concrete: The use of exposed concrete surfaces, often in an unfinished state, is a defining feature of Brutalist structures. While some designs may incorporate brick, steel, or glass, concrete remains the primary material.
– Geometric Forms: Brutalist buildings feature rigid, block-like shapes and exaggerated proportions, creating a sense of solidity and durability.
– Functionality First: Rooted in modernist principles, Brutalist design focuses on function over decoration, resulting in minimal embellishments and a focus on practicality.
– Monolithic Structures: Many Brutalist buildings have a fortress-like appearance, with heavy, cantilevered forms and deeply recessed windows.
– Expressive Brutality: Unlike other minimalist styles, Brutalism embraces the roughness of its materials, highlighting imperfections and textures.
History:
Brutalism emerged in the mid-20th century as a response to the need for affordable and functional buildings in the post-war era. The term “béton brut,” which means “raw concrete” in French, was popularized by British architects Alison and Peter Smithson in the 1950s. However, Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier had already laid the foundation for the style.
During its peak from the 1950s to the 1970s, Brutalism was prominent in public buildings, government complexes, and university campuses. The movement emphasized function over decoration, favoring utilitarian materials and honest, unadorned structures.
By the 1980s, Brutalism fell out of favor and was criticized for being cold and oppressive. Many iconic Brutalist buildings were neglected or demolished. However, in the 21st century, there has been a resurgence of interest in Brutalist design, sparking discussions on preservation and inspiring a new wave of designers to reinterpret its principles.
Current Popularity:
Architect Trey Trahan notes that contemporary Brutalist-style buildings are now more diverse, collaborative, and refined. The style has taken on a new cultural identity, moving
In today’s urban landscape, urban density has experienced a resurgence, transforming it into a bold and avant-garde aesthetic. For some, the embrace of Brutalism in their hometowns has held a long-standing allure, offering newfound significance within its architectural framework. Architect Walker McKinley reflects on growing up in Canada during the 60s and 70s, where Brutalist buildings were a prevalent feature that shaped his architectural sensibilities. He notes the appeal lies in Brutalism’s deliberate departure from historical references and intricate details, replacing them with expressive possibilities that have always resonated with him.
The influence of Brutalist architecture extends into popular culture, with film and television often utilizing its stark structures to evoke dystopian settings, as seen in works such as “A Clockwork Orange” and “Blade Runner 2049.” More recently, the film “The Brutalist” by A24 has garnered attention for its portrayal of the aesthetic movement, introducing its visual language to a broader and enthusiastic international audience. McKinley observes a trend where luxury fashion brands, particularly in Europe, have integrated elements of midcentury Brutalist architecture into their retail spaces and runway shows, reflecting a nostalgia for the style.
Brutalism is also viewed as a challenge to conventional Western notions of beauty by architect Trahan, who appreciates iconic examples like Boston City Hall and the Kimbell Art Museum for pushing boundaries in material use and design concepts. For those captivated by Brutalism’s bold aesthetic, incorporating its principles into modern home design can result in a visually impactful yet livable space. To achieve this look, one can embrace raw materials such as concrete, exposed brick, and steel accents, or opt for concrete furniture pieces like tables and planters. Furniture and décor choices should prioritize simple, geometric forms that exude solidity and weight, while maintaining a neutral color palette dominated by grays and earthy tones. Texture plays a vital role in adding depth and visual interest to Brutalist interiors, with rough surfaces, brushed metals, and unfinished wood enhancing the overall design aesthetic.
