What is the history behind Brutalist architecture?

1 Origins of Brutalism

The term Brutalism comes from the French word "béton brut", meaning raw concrete, which was used by the Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier to describe his buildings in the 1950s. Le Corbusier was one of the pioneers of modern architecture, and his designs were influenced by his principles of rationalism, functionalism, and purism. He aimed to create universal and efficient structures that could serve various purposes and adapt to different contexts. Some of his most famous Brutalist works include the Unité d'Habitation in Marseille, the Chapel of Notre Dame du Haut in Ronchamp, and the Parliament Building in Chandigarh.

2 Influences of Brutalism

Brutalism was also influenced by other architectural movements and trends, such as Expressionism, Constructivism, Art Deco, and International Style. Brutalist architects were inspired by the sculptural and dramatic qualities of these styles, as well as their use of new materials and technologies. Brutalism also reflected the social and political conditions of the post-war era, such as the need for reconstruction, housing, and public services, the rise of welfare states and mass culture, and the critique of consumerism and capitalism. Brutalism was seen as a way to express the values of democracy, equality, and progress, as well as to challenge the conventions and expectations of traditional architecture.

3 Variations of Brutalism

Brutalism spread across the world in the 1960s and 1970s, and it was adapted and modified by different architects and regions. Some of the variations of Brutalism include New Brutalism in Britain, which emphasized the social and ethical aspects of architecture, and was exemplified by the works of Alison and Peter Smithson, James Stirling, and Denys Lasdun. Another variation was Metabolist Brutalism in Japan, which focused on the organic and dynamic aspects of architecture, and was exemplified by the works of Kenzo Tange, Kisho Kurokawa, and Fumihiko Maki. Other examples of regional Brutalism include Brutalismo Paulista in Brazil, Socialist Brutalism in Eastern Europe, and Tropical Brutalism in Southeast Asia and Africa.

4 Legacy of Brutalism

Brutalism declined in popularity and practice in the late 1970s and 1980s, as it faced criticism and opposition from various sources. Some of the reasons for this decline include the rise of postmodernism and historicism, which rejected the austerity and uniformity of Brutalism, the emergence of environmental and energy concerns, which questioned the sustainability and efficiency of Brutalism, and the association of Brutalism with social and urban problems, such as crime, decay, and alienation. Many Brutalist buildings were demolished, neglected, or altered, and some were even targeted by terrorists or vandals. However, Brutalism also experienced a revival and appreciation in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, as it was recognized for its cultural and architectural significance, its artistic and aesthetic value, and its potential for adaptation and regeneration. Some of the examples of this revival include the preservation and restoration of Brutalist landmarks, the creation and publication of Brutalist guides and maps, and the incorporation and reinterpretation of Brutalist elements in contemporary architecture and design.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?