BRUTALIST BUILDINGS

Brutalist Buildings - Should they be treasured or knocked down



Brutalist Buildings - Should they be treasured or knocked down

Introduction

Architecture and sculptures have evolved and changed dramatically for the purpose of creating an effective and efficient competitive edge in the overall market. However, in the context of history, brutalist buildings have been amongst the most influential pieces of stone and walls to have ever existed on the face of the earth. Here, we shall pertain to discuss what is the significance of these buildings and that whether or not should be monuments exist.

History of Brutalist Buildings

A brutalist building, as the title clearly narrates, takes its name from the word 'brutal', which embody fear, terror, fright and horror which an entity, object or a person may bring to another (Bastlund, 1967). In terms of architecture, brutalist buildings imply 'disturbing' monuments, which are designed and considered masterpieces for all the people to see and witness the 'magnificence' and the most 'eloquent' pieces of architecture to exist (Banham, 1966).

The prime aim to creating brutalist buildings was generally inspired from the pioneers and architects of the 19th century to create structures and monuments made out of 'raw concrete', which would designed in ways that would create a fascinating, yet memorable image on the mind of the viewer or anyone who sees it. The term itself had been coined by British architects Alison and Peter Smithson in the year 1953 to symbolize the work that had been delivered in the area of concrete-used buildings that has been established in the post-World War II era.

Characteristics of Brutalist Buildings

Brutalist buildings have been “engineered” structurally with the use of concrete related items and amenities, established and developed with striking features and geometric patterns, which create a long lasting impression in the memory of the viewers. Details that would otherwise be hidden or working on the backend, such as pipes, fittings and all other services are amongst the prominent features that have been noticed in these buildings, fixed and pinned into the exterior (Farrelly, 2010, pp.16).

To keep or not to keep

Questions regarding the preservation or demolition of these items have been significant for the purpose and objective of the consequences and casualties associated with these masterpieces. Several attempts have been made about whether to keep these buildings running or making their way through a replacement and revamping the area for a better living, residential area (Glancey, 2011).

But, to come to think of it, one must understand that at the time of inception, when initially these buildings were designed and established for several reasons. At the time of the Second World War, not much of the world's industry or financial infrastructure was active or in shape to provide quality and solid structures that could shelter the people who were otherwise facing the tremulous weather conditions at that time. Therefore, to fulfil the need of the hour, it was best suggested to make infrastructures of whatever was left of the sabotage, and was wise to ...