My Raw Love: Brutalism
Whatever the cost, my love for Brutalism is forever! Honesty and functionality over decorative elements!
Brutalism is an architectural style that emerged in the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s. The term "brutalism" is derived from the French phrase "béton brut", which means "raw concrete". Characterized by its rugged, unfinished appearance, exposed concrete surfaces, geometric shapes, and emphasis on functionality, Brutalism often incorporates materials such as steel, timber, and glass.
Brutalist architecture aimed to showcase the raw materials and construction methods, emphasizing honesty and functionality over decorative elements. It often featured monumental, monolithic structures gaining popularity through architects like Le Corbusier, Louis Kahn, Mies Van der Rohe, Alison and Peter Smithson, and Alvar Aalto.
Unité d'Habitation | Le Corbusier, Marseille (1954)
St Mary's Cathedral | Kenzo Tange| Tokyo (1960)
Middle East Technical University (METU) | Altuğ-Behruz Çinici, Ankara (1962-1980)
Habitat 67 | Moshe Sadie, a pavilion for Expo 67 in Montreal (1967)
Hukukçular Sitesi | Haluk Baysal - Melih Birsel, İstanbul (1967)
Hayward Gallery | Dennis Crompton, Warren Chalk and Ron Herron, London (1968)
Torre Blancas | Francisco Javier Sáenz de Oiza, Madrid (1969)
Geisel Library | William Pereira, San Diego (1970)
Nakagin Capsule Tower | Kisho Kurokawa, Shimbashi, Tokyo (1970-72)
Wotrubakirche | Fritz Wotruba, Vienna (1976)
Barbican Center | Chamberlain, Powell and Bon, London (1982)
.jpg){kind=link}
By the 2000s, the popularity of Brutalism had declined, with many buildings criticized for their harsh aesthetic (often being described as "cold" or "soulless") and association with urban decay (previously functioning cities-ghost cities) and the cost of demolishment/ the ecological implications.
A new generation appreciated its boldness, honesty, and responsiveness to social and political contexts. This renewed enthusiasm led artists and designers to incorporate Brutalist elements into their work, extending its influence to sculpture, furniture design, and graphic design. Online platforms and social media communities dedicated to Brutalism facilitated re-evaluation and broader appreciation.
However, the impact of Brutalism goes beyond aesthetics. Demolishing Brutalist buildings, with their solid concrete presence, can have significant environmental consequences. Concrete's weight requires energy-intensive processes for disposal, contributing to carbon emissions and straining waste management systems. To mitigate these effects, careful consideration of ecological implications is crucial. Exploring alternatives like adaptive reuse or renovation can help preserve these structures, reduce waste, and maintain ecological balance in the surrounding environment.
"In the world of architecture, I embrace Brutalism with unwavering passion. No matter the cost, it's the raw essence that captivates me—honesty and functionality triumphing over decorative elements!" -OzgBo
Whatever the cost, my love for Brutalism is forever!
During my architectural studies, I have always been captivated by the pure and raw nature of concrete. Exploring the works of modernist architects, one figure who stood out was Le Corbusier. His designs showcased a deep appreciation for the texture and flexibility inherent in such a robust material. I found myself drawn to the angular, blocky, and geometric buildings that were characterized by brutalist style. The graphic representation of these raw structures, with their stark lines and exposed concrete surfaces, left me in awe. The way Brutalist architecture embraced the inherent qualities of concrete and celebrated its honesty resonated with my own design sensibilities. It allowed me to explore the interplay between form and function while appreciating the beauty that could emerge from simplicity and raw materials.
More Brutalist art;
Max Levine | Brutalist Steel Wall Sculpture, 1974
Henrik Horst | Sculptural Panel, 1970s
Paul Evans | Sculpted Bronze Furniture, 1970s
Silas Seandel | Tables, 1970s