brutalism

American  

[broot-l-iz-uhm] / ˈbrut lˌɪz əm /

noun

1. Architecture. a style of modernist architecture, originating in the 1950s, characterized by exposed structural materials and plain, massive, often steeply angular geometric forms, typically of unfinished concrete.

2. a style in art, furniture, jewelry, etc., influenced by this architecture and often characterized by outsized elements or the use of unfinished or roughly textured materials.

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brutalism British  

/ ˈbruːtəˌlɪzəm /

noun

1. Also called: new brutalism.  an austere style of architecture characterized by emphasis on such structural materials as undressed concrete and unconcealed service pipes

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Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• brutalist
  noun

Etymology

Origin of brutalism

First recorded in 1795–1805, for literal sense; brutal + -ism; in reference to architecture first used by British architects Alison Smithson (1928–93) and Peter Smithson (1923–2003) in 1953

Example Sentences

In late February, Lewis met up for martinis at the Westin Bonaventure’s revolving rooftop bar in downtown L.A.. famous for 360-degree views and swanky concrete brutalism.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 1, 2024

The five-story granite and concrete structure is considered an important example of the architectural style known as brutalism.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 1, 2023

Its mid-century brutalism has a certain dour charm, but it sits elevated on columns straddling 10th Street.

From Washington Post • Nov. 5, 2022

Turbine Hall B, meanwhile, a relic of 1950s brutalism, promises an "eclectic" mix of contemporary brands.

From BBC • Oct. 13, 2022

High and long sustained, the sublime anthem rolled above the battle and its brutalism.

From The Prince of India — Volume 02 by Wallace, Lewis