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Brutalism
DESIGN STYLES & MOVEMENTSbeginner
Definition
An architectural style of the 1950s–70s characterised by the bold, unfinished expression of structural materials — particularly raw (béton brut) concrete. Brutalism valued honesty of materials, strong geometric forms, and social purpose. It was associated with social housing, universities, and civic buildings.
Example
The Barbican Estate in London (completed 1976) is one of the largest Brutalist housing complexes in Europe — raw concrete towers, elevated walkways, and a dense urban world unto itself.
Key Figures
- — Alison and Peter Smithson — Robin Hood Gardens
- — Paul Rudolph — Yale Art and Architecture Building
- — Marcel Breuer — Whitney Museum of American Art