Regarding the film The Brutalist, starring Adrien Brody and nominated for 10 Oscars, it’s worth mentioning some of the most significant brutalist buildings.
Brutalist buildings are instantly recognizable due to their bold, monolithic structures and the predominant use of raw concrete.
This architectural style emerged as a response to the need for cost-effective and functional buildings, characterized by rigid, block-like forms that often appear stacked or interwoven.
The roots of Brutalist architecture can be traced back to the 1950s, with one of its earliest examples being the Villa Göth. Over time, Brutalist buildings became widely adopted due to their durability, affordability, and strikingly unconventional aesthetic.
Often regarded as the architectural piece that inspired the term “Brutalism,” Villa Göth was designed in 1950 by Bengt Edman and Lennart Holm. Built for Elis Göth, this residence featured a simple yet stark design, primarily composed of exposed concrete and brick. While its rectangular, three-story layout and restrained façade may not be considered groundbreaking, it undeniably set the stage for the rise of Brutalist buildings.
Though Le Corbusier is often associated with Modernist architecture, his work on Unité d’Habitation de Marseille played a significant role in influencing the Brutalist movement. Conceived as early as 1920, this residential complex was ahead of its time, pioneering several key design elements that later became synonymous with Brutalist buildings. Despite not being strictly categorized as Brutalist, its raw concrete construction, geometric form, and emphasis on functionality make it a pivotal reference in the evolution of the style.
The construction of Smithdon High School marked a turning point in the formal adoption of Brutalist architecture. Designed by Peter and Alison Smithson, this school in Norfolk, England—originally known as Hunstanton School—cemented the academic and theoretical framework of Brutalism. While earlier structures had elements of the style, Smithdon High School was among the first to be explicitly classified under the term, solidifying its place in architectural history.
Located in Belgrade, Serbia, the Western City Gate, also known as the Genex Tower, stands as one of the most iconic Brutalist structures in the former Yugoslavia. Designed to symbolize a gateway welcoming visitors from the airport, the tower’s distinctive structure is a testament to the adaptability of Brutalist design.
The 36-story complex consists of two towering concrete structures linked by a bridge, with a revolving restaurant at the top. One side of the tower was designated for commercial use, while the other served as a residential space, showcasing the multifunctional nature of Brutalist buildings.
At the University of Pittsburgh, the Litchfield Towers serve as a striking example of Brutalist architecture in an academic setting. Designed by the architectural firm Deeter and Richtie in 1963, these imposing high-rise dormitories house nearly 2,000 students. The complex consists of three cylindrical concrete towers—known as Towers A, B, and C—each with varying capacities. Tower B, standing at 22 stories, is the tallest of the trio, exemplifying the monumental scale often associated with Brutalist buildings.
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