Brutalist is beautiful.
Brutalist interior design is a style that gained popularity from the 1950s to the mid-1970s. It is characterized by a raw, stark aesthetic that often incorporates elements like exposed concrete, blocky geometric shapes and a monochromatic color palette.
This design and construction style emphasizes functionality and simplicity, often showcasing the bare building materials and structural elements without additional decoration.
Principles of brutalist design
Now that we discussed what brutalism is, what are some design elements you’re most likely to see as part of this aesthetic? Find some of the defining features listed below.
- Raw materials: The primary feature of Brutalist architecture is the exposure of its materials, especially concrete. This emphasis on unfinished materials conveys a sense of honesty and functionality.
- Geometric simplicity: Brutalism favors simple, block-like structures with geometric shapes. These forms are often repeated in large complexes, creating a sense of rhythm and uniformity.
- Functional transparency: Buildings are designed to visibly express their purpose. The internal functions of a building often dictate its external appearance.
- Monolithic aesthetics: Brutalist structures often appear as singular, imposing monoliths. This aesthetic conveys strength and solidity.
- Emphasis on textures: The textures of the building materials, especially the wooden forms used to mold poured concrete, are often left visible.
- Minimal decoration: Brutalist design eschews decorative elements, focusing instead on the raw beauty of materials and form.
Primary colors and materials
- Materials: The most iconic material used in Brutalist design is raw concrete, think an unfinished concrete floor or wall. The term for this type of unfinished architectural concrete is ‘béton brut’. Other materials include brick, glass, steel and rough-hewn stone.
- Colors: The color palette is typically monochromatic, dominated by the natural gray of concrete. Accents, if present, are often in stark, contrasting colors like black or white. Earth tones also make an appearance.
Brutalist furniture
Brutalist furniture, like the architectural style and brutalist movement it derives from, is characterized by its raw, unrefined aesthetic and emphasis on functionality.
- Material use: The most prominent material in Brutalist furniture is often heavy, solid wood, but it also frequently incorporates metal, especially wrought or cast iron. Raw concrete can also be used.
- Geometric, angular forms: Brutalist furniture typically features bold, geometric shapes. It often has a blocky, angular form, reflecting the architectural style’s emphasis on massive, monolithic structures.
- Textural elements: Textures play a significant role in Brutalist furniture. The surfaces are often rough-hewn or distressed, showcasing the natural characteristics of the materials.
- Minimal ornamentation: Consistent with the Brutalist ethos, the furniture tends to be minimalistic in terms of decoration, closer to modern sculptures. Any decorative elements are usually inherent in the materials and construction methods, rather than added embellishments.
- Heavy and imposing presence: Brutalist furniture often has a substantial, weighty presence. It’s designed to make a statement rather than blend in, much like Brutalist buildings themselves.
- Functional and sturdy: Functionality is a key aspect, with furniture pieces designed to be highly practical and durable.
Popularity and architects’ perspectives
Brutalist design was most popular from the 1950s through the 1970s. It emerged as a reaction to the lightness and optimism of mid-century modern design, reflecting a more stoic, functional approach to the modernist movement. But what do architects think about this harshly named design?
- Likes: Architects appreciate Brutalism for its honesty in materials, bold geometric forms and the ability to make a strong architectural statement. It’s seen as a pure form of architectural expression.
- Dislikes: Critics argue that Brutalist buildings can be oppressive, aesthetically unpleasing and unwelcoming. The heavy use of concrete is often criticized for being cold and inhuman.
The effects of brutalist interior design
Brutalist interior design style, known for its stark, imposing structures, often elicits strong psychological responses. Here are some key aspects of brutalist interior design.
- Sense of scale and power: The massive scale and raw materials used in Brutalist design can create feelings of awe and smallness. The imposing structures can be overpowering, which some find exhilarating while others may find intimidating or oppressive.
- Minimalism and focus: The minimalist nature of Brutalist design, with its lack of ornamentation and distraction, can promote a sense of focus and clarity. However, for some, this minimalism might also feel stark and unwelcoming.
- Emotional responses: The monolithic and often featureless façades can evoke feelings of isolation or alienation. The cold, hard surfaces and lack of color can also affect mood, potentially leading to feelings of bleakness or melancholy.
- Impact on well-being: The lack of natural elements, softer textures and color variation can impact one’s sense of well-being. Spaces that lack these elements can sometimes feel less nurturing.
- Cultural associations: Brutalist buildings are often associated with institutional or governmental authority, which can influence how individuals psychologically perceive and interact with these spaces.
Evolution of the brutalist aesthetic
Over the years, the Brutalist aesthetic has undergone significant changes.
- From rigidity to fluidity: Early Brutalism was characterized by rigid, geometric forms. Modern interpretations see more fluidity and variation in forms while maintaining the fundamental Brutalist principles.
- Integration of new materials: While concrete remains a staple, there’s been an integration of other materials like glass, polished brass, steel and even wood to add warmth and textural contrast.
- Incorporation of greenery and natural elements: Contemporary Brutalist designs often include natural elements like plants and water features to soften the harshness and bring in a sense of life.
- Adaptation for modern use: As needs and tastes evolve, Brutalist buildings are being adapted for contemporary use, blending the old with the new while respecting the original Brutalist ethos.
- Softer and smaller scale: Current designs tend to be on a smaller, more human scale and incorporate softer elements to make spaces more approachable and livable.
Brutalist influence on other interior design styles
Brutalism has influenced a ton of other designers’ design styles in several ways.
- Minimalism: The Brutalist emphasis on minimalism and functionality has influenced contemporary minimalist design, emphasizing simplicity and the essence of the structure.
- Industrial design: The raw, unfinished look of Brutalist interiors has parallels in industrial design, with its use of exposed materials like brick, metal and concrete.
- Modernism and contemporary design: Brutalism’s focus on unfinished materials and geometric forms has influenced modern and contemporary design, particularly in creating impactful, uncluttered spaces.
- Eco-friendly and sustainable design: The Brutalist principle of honesty in materials has inspired sustainable design practices that emphasize natural materials and energy efficiency.
- Adaptive reuse: The trend of repurposing Brutalist buildings has influenced the adaptive reuse movement in architecture, demonstrating how older structures can be revitalized for modern use while retaining historical significance.
Real-world examples of brutalist design
Where can you catch brutalism in action as a living, breathing aesthetic? Find places to see it here.
- Barbican Estate, London: This residential complex is a prime example of Brutalist architecture and interior design. The interiors feature exposed concrete surfaces, angular geometric forms and a functional layout that is straightforward and unembellished.
- Boston City Hall: The interior of Boston City Hall is an iconic example of Brutalist design. It displays raw concrete surfaces, a rugged and unrefined aesthetic and a powerful sense of geometry and scale. The design is minimalistic, focusing on the natural beauty and strength of the materials.
Soft brutalist interior design
“Soft Brutalism” is a modern interpretation of the Brutalist style. It seeks to soften the harshness of traditional Brutalism by incorporating warmer materials, more natural light and integrating elements of nature. This approach aims to maintain the raw, honest expression of traditional Brutalism while making it more livable for a wider range of people.
Brutalism as anti-design
Brutalism is sometimes considered “anti-design” by designers due to its stark contrast to the ornate and decorative styles that preceded it. Its emphasis on raw materials and functional forms was a deliberate move away from traditional design aesthetics.
Brutalist interiors in 2024
Predicting trends in architecture and other elements of interior design can be challenging. However, there’s a growing appreciation for Brutalist interior design, partly as a reaction against the sleek and often impersonal modern design trends.
This renewed interest, coupled with a contemporary twist like “soft Brutalism,” could lead to a resurgence of this architectural trend in Brutalist style, although this would likely be in a more nuanced and people-friendly form compared to its mid-20th-century origins.
Is a brutalist interior design right for you?
While Brutalism, in its purest form, might be viewed as “anti-design,” its influence persists. As we look toward 2024 and beyond, there’s a growing interest in Brutalist interior design, suggesting a potential resurgence. This revival is likely to be nuanced, blending the raw, powerful essence of traditional Brutalism with more contemporary, user-friendly elements, reflecting society’s evolving tastes and needs.
The enduring appeal of the Brutalist interior design style lies in its unflinching commitment to materiality, form and functionality, serving as a bold statement in the world of design.
In the market for a brutalist-inspired apartment? You’re in the right place to find the perfect space.
