The resurgence of interest in European Brutalism is a fascinating cultural shift. Once derided as “ugly” or “soul-crushing” during the 1980s and 90s, these concrete giants are now celebrated for their raw honesty and bold, graphic qualities. Why Brutalism is Popular Today
The “Techno of Architecture”: Modern fans often compare Brutalism to techno music—it is stark, repetitive, and uncompromising. This “sublime” and sometimes “terrifying” aesthetic makes it a favorite for architectural photography and social media. A “Machine for Living”: Many are drawn to the utopian ideals of the 1950s and 60s. After WWII, architects used raw concrete (béton brut) to quickly and cheaply build social housing and public institutions, reflecting a belief that rational, functional design could improve the lives of the working class.
Anti-Consumerist Symbolism: In an era of shiny glass skyscrapers, the heavy, permanent nature of concrete is seen by some as a rejection of “conspicuous consumption” and a yearning for buildings that feel like they are meant to last forever. The image above is in Cuba.
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