Brutalism tends to get the least amount of love from architecture fans. The style certainly has its positives, but there are many criticisms too. Interestingly though, there has been a new wave of design combining the idea with an eco friendly outlook. The result is a new version people are referring to as eco-brutalism.
Origins
The post WWII period of the 1950s was a tough one for the UK. In the aftermath of the war there was a period of austerity, with strain on resources, high national debt, and a weak economy. It is no surprise that brutalism emerged at this time and became prolific in the 50s and 60s. It focuses on utilitarian designs, where function is the most important thing, and forgoing decoration. Raw concrete is the main material because it was cheap, easy to work with, and low maintenance.
During the post WWII rebuild period, we got a huge number of different brutalist buildings in the UK. This includes housing estates, civic centres, galleries, theatres, and even churches. The designs are a sign of endurance, but they get a lot of hate from critics.
A new spin
Eco-brutalism is an interesting newer take on the idea. It uses the geometric style and massing you get with Brutalist structures, but incorporates more organic elements, including green roofs, terrace gardens, and plants on balconies. The combination of severe buildings and living things creates a really impressive look. At the same time, the designs can create light, airy interiors and ensure more effective cooling and heating.
If you're thinking about residential architecture, you'll want to consider various design options. Eco-brutalism could work for you. It has the potential to create homes that combine durability and low maintenance with an ecological element. This can have a big impact on sustainability.
Controversy?
Talking of sustainability, eco-brutalism does get some criticism. Some critics say it is an attempt at green-washing. They think continuing to use a large amount of concrete but adding greenery is not enough to offset the cost to the environment. At worst, the green elements are a veneer for a carbon-intensive building.
The most important thing to focus on is that eco-brutalism challenges the idea we shouldn't use materials like concrete. It says that with thought, and the right details, we can get a fusion of enduring buildings and ecology. Even more importantly, it can allow a new take on reuse and adaptability.
One of the greatest things about eco-brutalism is you can choose so many different design elements. You can design vertically and create things like vertical forests. Or, you can look horizontally, sculpting the terrain and shaping the landscape.