Promoting Freedom for Creative Architecture
Historically, architecture has been used as a tool for societal exploration and representation. The emergence of Brutalist architecture, in particular, was a period of technological progress and social upheaval. Brutalist architecture is an architectural style that emerged in the 1950s and continued to rise in popularity during the 1970s. The name was derived from the French word "beton brut" or "raw concrete." Brutalist buildings often use exposed cast-in-place concrete as their primary material. This style is characterized by repetitive modular elements and a focus on the texture and materiality of the structure.
The Atlas of Brutalist Architecture is a collection of over 850 Brutalist buildings located in over 100 countries worldwide. Published in 2018, the atlas was edited by architecture scholars, Phaidon Press, and designed by the Dutch studio, MVRDV. Let's take a closer look at this comprehensive resource for Brutalist architecture enthusiasts and professionals.
What is the Atlas of Brutalist Architecture?
The Atlas of Brutalist Architecture is a mammoth collection of Brutalist architecture from around the world. The atlas captures the important period of Brutalist architecture that began in the 1950s and continued through the early 1970s. The book celebrates the style that emerged during this period, which focused on the honest use of materials, a lack of ornamentation, and a utilitarian approach to design.
The Atlas of Brutalist Architecture covers over 850 buildings from across the globe, including work by international architects such as Oscar Niemeyer, Le Corbusier, and Paul Rudolph. The atlas is not just a visual compendium but also includes critical essays and maps that help to contextualize the buildings. The buildings featured in the atlas range from public housing blocks to university campuses, government buildings, and cultural institutions.
Getting an Overview of the Atlas of Brutalist Architecture
The Atlas of Brutalist Architecture is not just an image book, but also includes an introduction that helps readers contextualize the buildings. The introductory essay, written by Phaidon editor, Nigel Wainwright, explains the unique characteristics that define Brutalist architecture. It discusses the use of materials, the focus on function before aesthetics, and the specific architectural language used by Brutalist architects. Additionally, the essay highlights the importance of Brutalist architecture as a response to the societal transformations happening during the mid-20th Century.
After the introduction, the book presents over 850 buildings from around the world. The book is organized geographically and contains over 100 maps, which provide a broader sense of the global impact of Brutalist architecture. Each building is illustrated with photographs and drawings that emphasize the style’s raw, monolithic, and occasionally brutalist aesthetic. Every building includes a brief description of its history, function, and context.
Some Examples of Buildings Featured in the Atlas of Brutalist Architecture
The buildings included in the Atlas of Brutalist Architecture vary in size, function, and location. Here are a few examples of some of the buildings that are featured in this comprehensive collection.
- The Barbican Estate: Located in London, the Barbican is an iconic Brutalist building designed by British architects Chamberlin, Powell, and Bon. Completed in 1982, the estate includes over 2000 residential units, a cultural center, a concert hall, and a school. The building's design is modular and repetitive, with rough-textured concrete surfaces and exposed steel.
- The Yale School of Architecture: Designed by American architect Paul Rudolph, the Yale School of Architecture is a Brutalist masterpiece that was completed in 1963. The building features a layered facade that emphasizes the structural modules of the building. Additionally, Rudolph incorporated the use of natural light to highlight and define the spaces within the building.
- The Robin Hood Gardens: Located in East London, Robin Hood Gardens is a public housing estate designed by British architects, Alison and Peter Smithson. Completed in 1972, the buildings were designed to address the need for social housing in the post-war period. The estate consisted of two six-story blocks and incorporated the concept of "streets in the sky." The use of exposed concrete and a textured facade create a sense of monumentality.
The Social Impact of Brutalist Architecture
The Atlas of Brutalist Architecture is not just a collection of buildings. The book is also a testament to the social impact of Brutalist architecture. The buildings featured in the atlas were often designed to meet public needs, such as housing, education, and culture. As a result, Brutalist architecture played a significant role in shaping the environments of cities around the world.
Additionally, the raw, honest use of materials often associated with Brutalist architecture was an attempt to communicate the idea of honest architecture that reflected the society's values. Brutalist architecture, therefore, became an emblem of the progressive movement that sought to question traditional architectural forms and push for social change.
Conclusion
The Atlas of Brutalist Architecture is a comprehensive survey of one of the most important architectural movements of the 20th century. It contextualizes the buildings and provides a deeper understanding of their social impact. The book serves as a reminder of the significant role that Brutalist architecture played in shaping the urban environments and its people's lives. The atlas is an essential resource for architects, historians, and enthusiasts interested in the raw, honest use of materials that define Brutalist architecture.
