Brutalist Architecture Is Divisive—Here’s Everything You Need to Know About the Style to Determine Your Stance

Brutalist architecture—which often elicits intense emotions, ranging from love to hate—remains one of the most divisive architectural styles of the modern era. "The style is characterized by raw, exposed concrete and bold geometric forms," ​​says Mark Bittoni, principal of Bittoni Architects. "You have undoubtedly seen it before in numerous cultural and civic buildings constructed between the 1950s and 1970s." With countless examples spread across various countries and continents, this aesthetic holds great historical value and remains popular today, particularly in residential design. In this AD guide, discover the history and impact of Brutalism, explore the reactions the style provokes, and tour some of the world's most famous Brutalist buildings.

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