Origins of the Brutalist Style
The Brutalist style of architecture emerged in the 1950s during the post-war period. As modernist architecture developed, architects and designers experimented with raw, industrial materials. It was during this time that the Brutalist style began to take shape. The term Brutalism comes from the French word brut, which means raw. It refers to the rough, unfinished look of concrete, the building material of choice for many Brutalist architects. One of the key early influences on the Brutalist style was the Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier. Throughout his career, Le Corbusier emphasized the importance of function in design. He believed that buildings should be practical and efficient, and that their form should be dictated by their function. This philosophy was a major influence on the Brutalist style, which placed a strong emphasis on the functionality of buildings.Characteristics of the Brutalist Style
The Brutalist style is characterized by its use of raw, industrial materials, with concrete being the most prominent. Brutalist buildings typically have a highly sculptural quality, with strong geometric shapes and bold, angular forms. They often incorporate elements of other architectural styles, such as the use of large windows and open floor plans from Modernism. Some of the most common characteristics of the Brutalist style include:- The use of raw, industrial materials such as exposed concrete and steel
- A highly sculptural quality, with strong geometric shapes and angular forms
- Large, open spaces with few partitions or barriers
- Lack of ornamentation or decorative elements
- Strong emphasis on function and efficiency
Popularity of Brutalism in the 1950s and 60s
The Brutalist style gained significant popularity in the 1950s and 60s, particularly in Europe and North America. Architects and designers were drawn to the clean, modern lines of the style, as well as its emphasis on functionality and efficiency. One of the most famous examples of Brutalist architecture during this time was the Barbican Estate in London. Designed by Chamberlin, Powell and Bon, the estate features a series of concrete towers which housed over 4,000 residents. The design was a response to the post-war housing crisis and was intended to provide efficient, high-quality housing in a modern, functional style. Another key example of Brutalist architecture from this period is Boston City Hall, designed by Kallmann McKinnell & Knowles. The building’s bold, angular forms and sculptural quality exemplify the Brutalist style, while its large open spaces and functional design make it one of the most distinctive public buildings of the period.Famous Examples of Brutalist Architecture
Brutalist architecture has produced a number of iconic buildings around the world. Some of the most famous examples include:- The Centre Pompidou in Paris, France
- The Boston City Hall in Boston, Massachusetts
- The Barbican Estate in London, England
- The National Theatre in London, England
- The Jørn Utzon-designed Bagsværd Church in Denmark
- The Geisel Library at the University of California, San Diego
- The Yoyogi National Gymnasium in Tokyo, Japan
Criticisms and Controversies Surrounding the Brutalist Style
Despite its popularity during the 1950s and 60s, the Brutalist style has been the subject of significant criticism and controversy. For some, the style’s raw, industrial look is too harsh and oppressive, while others see it as a symbol of the failed urban planning of the post-war period. One of the most famous examples of the negative reception of Brutalist architecture is the demolition of the Pruitt-Igoe housing project in St. Louis, Missouri. Once seen as a symbol of progressive urban planning, the project became notorious for its high crime rates, poor living conditions, and bleak aesthetic. In 1972, the decision was made to demolish the entire site, effectively becoming a symbol of the failure of the mid-century modernist urban planning movement.Interesting Read What colors to avoid in your living room: A guide to creating the perfect ambiance.