Brutalist Movement: Utilitarian Modernism in the History of Interior Design + Architecture
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Brutalism: a term that may conjure images of cold, imposing concrete structures, often regarded with mixed emotions. Unbeknownst to many, behind the seemingly harsh façade lies a compelling design movement with a rich history and the potential to transform contemporary interiors. In this blog post, we invite you to delve into the captivating tale of the brutalist design movement and explore how its principles can be tastefully applied to interior spaces today.
A Glimpse at the History
Emerging in the mid-20th century, the brutalist design movement sought to challenge conventional architectural norms. Pioneered by architects such as Le Corbusier, Louis Kahn, and Paul Rudolph, brutalism embraced raw materials and bold aesthetics as a means of architectural expression. The term itself stems from the French phrase "béton brut," meaning raw concrete—a defining feature of brutalist structures.
Saint Marie De La Tourette Monastery by Le Corbusier | Photo by Elimende Inagella on Unsplash
Beyond the Surface: Brutalism's Philosophy
At its core, brutalism is about authenticity, honesty, and functionality. Instead of concealing raw materials, brutalist architecture celebrates them. Unadorned concrete, exposed steel, and other rugged elements form the backbone of this movement. Brutalism's emphasis on functionality is evident in its focus on design for the people. Public and government buildings, museums, and universities often became the canvas on which brutalist architects expressed these principles. However, these bold designs are not limited to public spaces alone; they can also be successfully incorporated into residential interiors.
The Geisel Library by William Pereira at the University of San Diego | Photo by Laura Ockel on Unsplash
Major Design Elements
Integrating brutalist design principles into modern interiors requires a judicious approach that balances the foundations of the movement with contemporary tastes. Here are some ways to incorporate the essence of brutalism within your living spaces:
1. Embrace Raw Materials
Expose the natural beauty of materials used in your interior design. Unfinished concrete walls, weathered metals, and exposed bricks all contribute to the raw and authentic aesthetic of brutalism. Complement these elements with warm and tactile textures, such as natural wood or plush textiles, to create a harmonious balance.
2. Simplify Forms
Incorporate clean and sharp lines into your furniture and overall design scheme. Emphasize geometric shapes and minimal ornamentation to maintain that stark, brutalist aesthetic. Furniture pieces with strong silhouettes, such as angular sofas, sculptural chairs, and sleek tables, can anchor the space while embodying the spirit of brutalist design.
Habitat 67 by Moshe Safdie in Montreal, Quebec, Canado | Photo by Green Prophet on Unsplash
3. Play with Lighting
Effective lighting is crucial when embracing brutalist design. Experiment with both natural and artificial light sources to highlight the textures and materials within the space. Utilize large windows, skylights, or even light wells to bring abundant natural light into the room during the day. At night, incorporate strategically placed lighting fixtures to create dramatic shadows that accentuate the raw beauty of the materials.
4. A Pop of Color
While brutalism is often associated with muted tones, don't be afraid to inject bold splashes of color to add vibrancy and personality to your interior. Whether through bold artwork, furniture pieces, or accent walls, carefully chosen colors can create a striking contrast against the rugged backdrop of brutalist design.
The Timeless Appeal of Brutalism
Throughout its history, brutalism has faced critique and polarized opinions. However, in recent years, it has experienced a resurgence in popularity as people rediscover its unique charm. With its emphasis on authenticity, functionality, and the beauty of raw materials, brutalism has proved that it can be successfully translated into contemporary interior design.
XO,
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