Every time a talk comes up regarding architectural styles, Brutalist style architecture is often overlooked following its distinct features. The style emerged during the 60s post-war. Generated from a strong political shift, the style got somewhere lost in translation. Rummaging between love from the architects and hate from the critics, this style was the promoter of changes across the globe. To this date, almost all of the buildings have retained their charms, and we can still spot these features. Through this blog, let’s unveil the layers of Brutalist-style architecture in the Indian context.

1. So, What is a Brutalist Style Architecture?

Well, the Brutalist style emerged in the United Kingdom during the 1950s following World War II. Deriving from the French term “beton brut” which translates literally to “raw concrete”, was taken further by the pioneer modern architect Le Corbusier. This style gained pace post-war due to limited resources and unlimited demands. The young architects of Europe took the challenge to meet the requirements with this very unique approach by developing the Brutalist style.

With an emphasis on the unapologetic use of raw materials like concrete and metal, using geometric shapes, and gigantic-scale structures. This style was a reasoning of ethical solution, often signified as ” An ethic, not an Aesthetic.”

2. Features of Brutalist Style Architecture:

With its distinctive features Brutalist-style architecture can be easily recognized following its distinctive features:

• Using materials like raw concrete, steel, raw masonry, etc.
• Limited material pallet applications.
• Gigantic geometric forms and unusual forms of the building.
• Stark, and heavy in appearance.
• Clean, simple lines.
• Surface finishes are kept raw and rough.
• Modular structures and monolithic nature are noticed.

3. What is the Philosophy of Brutalist Style Architecture?

Brutalist style solely relies on the belief that “An ethic, not an Aesthetic.” Simply celebrating the brutal honesty of the structure by letting used materials remain raw and showcasing the function of a building. The decorative elements were rejected and all the raw components were left exposed. This brutal reality came along with the social changes occurring during the mid-century. Therefore, many of these buildings were public housing, educational institutes, libraries, government offices, etc. promoting the upcoming societal change. But, with all these new changes, the brutalist style had its fair share of not being accepted by people at first.

Although modernism and brutalism are contrary, their core philosophy remains similar. That is showcasing ‘honesty’ via building.

Rise of Brutalist style in India:

In India, the brutalist style was endorsed as the symbol of new India, after independence from the British colonization. It adopted the Independent India’s political ideas and past of colonial rule within its form. Yet brutalism’s beginning in India was ignited after Corbusier laid the foundation with the architecture of Chandigarh. Later perfected by legendary Indian Architects like – Achyut Kanvinde, B.V. Doshi, Raj Rehwal, Kuldip Singh, and Shivnath Prasad.

Let’s get a more clear understanding of Brutalist-style architecture through the following famous Indian brutalist buildings:

1. Villa Shodhan, Le Corbusier:

Le Corbusier designed Villa Shodhan in 1956, which is located in the heart of Ahmedabad. One of the best examples of brutalism in residential architecture, this monumental building exhibits the principles of Corbusier. This building sets a fine rhythm between nature and architecture. The design caters to the climatic requirements via modern solutions. The use of exposed concrete and geometric forms laid the grounds for further residential revolution.

2. Hall of Nations, Raj Rewal:

Inaugurated in 1972, this marvel stood still in Delhi, designed by Raj Rewal. Rewal built the Hall of Nations, the world’s first and largest-span space frame structure, to commemorate its 25th Independence Day. The design marks the special significance of post-colonial India by showcasing the construction technology that seemed incomprehensible to few. Constructed in reinforced concrete in situ, the design depicts Indian traditional elements like ‘Jali’ with its unique geometrical perforated patterns acting as a sun breaker by obstructing the harsh rays and permitting air circulation. The space frame keeps interiors unhindered and open for exhibitions. In 2017, a comprehensive redevelopment plan called for the demolition of this iconic landmark.

Read More About The Hall of Nations Demolition Here >>> Demolished Buildings: 15 Architectural Icons That Are Now Memory

3. Tagore Memorial Hall, B.V. Doshi:

This voluminous brutalist structure designed by B.V. Doshi resides on the banks of the Sabarmati River . Referred to as the ‘box of miracles’ by Le Corbusier, Doshi envisions his mentor’s principles in this unique folded plate structure. To achieve the large span and provide more usable space, Doshi and Mahendra Raj collaborated in developing its distinct triangular folds. The structure stands tall to this date celebrating art and life via integrating Doshi’s ideology of flexible and contextual design of the building.

Is the Brutalist style a lost expression now?

The last of these revolutionary structures stands tall in the midst of modern urban developments. With the changing economy and technologies, modernism has taken over and in a rapidly increasing scale. Once criticized by commoners, now is a base of Instagram aesthetics for architectural enthusiasts. But, rather than preserving these socialist-era monuments they are being neglected, and some are being demolished to meet the ends with modern requirements. Now a lost expression, this style was once a representation of the liberation notes of Independent India. Although, wailing in demand of consideration, the glimpse of brutalist style can be seen to this date in various new constructions.

Content Writing And Research By: Ar. Rajvi Dedakiya