Stylishly Harsh: 3 Key Features of Brutalist Interiors

Posted by geoffreydesousa on November 22nd, 2019

In the 70s, the first structures built with Brutalist design were criticized because of its bland and unwelcoming features. Prince Charles of Wales once said they were just "piles of concrete." But, this architectural style that's recognized for its stark, industrial look is gaining popularity among designers lately. It's even seen in luxurious homes today, despite its typical use in libraries, city halls, and other public buildings.    

Similar to minimalism, the simple, timeless quality is what makes Brutalism a favorable choice in interior architecture and design. Here are the essential characteristics of this resurfacing trend.

Exposed Concrete Material

Brutalism comes from the French words béton brut, which means 'raw concrete.' As the name implies, it's the most common material used for this style. The reason can be traced in its post-war origins. The economic conditions called for low-cost building design, so an inexpensive and crude choice was preferred by the developers of this trend. 

In home interiors, this material is applied to almost everything, from floors and walls to tables and chairs. The bare, grey-hued visuals create the somber aura Brutalism is known for.   

Jagged Geometric Shapes

Blocky, monolithic structures are another characteristic of this trending design. The building is often constructed as one, big, rectangular shape with a flat roof. It also has sharp and spiky edges that perfectly capture the literal meaning of its name.

These bold features extend into the interior part of the house, where pieces of furniture have these angular geometric forms. The walls and other partitions also have these cubic shapes, which create an open layout that seamlessly transitions into the outside.

Minimal Decor

The architects who pioneered this type of aesthetic rejected the ideas of Pre-Modernist art. They disregarded fancy decorations in favor of simplicity and practicality. The result? Home interiors have this effortless, clean look that speaks for itself. 

Rather than choosing colorful paintings, sculptures, and other accessories to embellish the house, the key defining features of this style are focused on. The material, texture, and strong geometric lines are enough to make a dramatic statement. Also, the use of minimal decor allows a wider space that makes the room breathable and easy to walk around. They all combine form and functionality together.

With talented architects and interior decorators in San Francisco, you can have your house built with this architectural style that exudes raw, understated elegance. The right team will strategically combine its elements to create a space that's both stylish and livable for you.