What is Brutalist architecture?
Brutalist architecture or Brutalism is an architectural style which emerged in the mid-20th century and gained popularity in the 1970s. It descended from the modernist architectural movement of the early 20th century.
Characteristics
- Brutalist architecture is characterized by simple, block-like structures that often feature bare building materials. Exposed concrete is favored in construction; however, some examples are primarily made of brick.
- Brutalist building materials also include brick, glass, steel, rough-hewn stone, and gabions.
- Also, Brutalism’s stark, geometric designs contrast with the more ornate features of some 1930s and 1940s architecture.
Great examples
Rakete / Richter
Zagrepčanka / Slavko Jelinek and Berislav Vinković
Kockica / Ivo Vitić
Super Andrija / Miroslav Cantinellija
Trellick Tower / Erno Goldfinger
Unité d’Habitation / Le Corbusier
Paul Rudolph Hall / Paul Rudolph
The Breuer Building / Marcel Breuer
Habitat 67 / Moshe Sadie
Brutalist architecture may not be a typical tourist attraction, but they sure remind us a lot about the past and and how far we have come. Their simplicity and unpretentiousness make them a good source of inspiration for today’s architects.
