Style & movement
Brutalism
An approach characterised by raw, clearly legible materials, bold volumes and construction that is left visible.
- Category
- Style & movement
- Index letter
- B
Understanding the term
The name is associated with raw concrete, but Brutalism more broadly concerns direct material use and powerful, almost sculptural construction. In furniture and objects it may appear through heavy proportions, rough joints and tactile surfaces.
When Brutalism is used as a style label, it points to a family of formal qualities and ideas rather than a fixed recipe. Periods and movements overlap, and a single work may draw on several styles.
The label becomes more precise when considered alongside date, composition, colour, materials and historical context. A style can inspire work long after its original period, so appearance alone does not date an object.
Related entries
Continue through the glossary with terms from the same field.