The 'Brutal' Side of Concrete

Brutalist architecture, characterized by its bold and raw use of exposed concrete, has left an indelible mark on the architectural landscape. Originating in the mid-20th century, this style embraces the intrinsic qualities of concrete, emphasizing its strength, durability, and utilitarian nature. Traditionally associated with ancient and traditional construction techniques, concrete is now being artistically employed in contemporary architecture. 

Let's explore how concrete is creatively used in today’s contemporary structures, where its raw texture and appearance meet the aesthetics.

Cidade das Artes (Rio De Janerio, Brazil)

Architects - Ar. Christian de Portzamparc

Typology - Theater

Purpose - Large curved concrete walls between concrete slabs

Cidade das Artes is a prominent cultural complex in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, designed by the French architect Christian de Portzamparc. Its architecture responds to the beautiful curves of the mountains and the sea line. Concrete is used to cover a large surface area in the organic form, creating a seamless integration with the natural surroundings. The large curved walls and slabs demonstrate how concrete can be molded into fluid shapes, providing both structural support and aesthetic appeal.

Credits - Ar. Christian de Portzamparc

Tenerife Auditorium (Tenerife, Spain)

Architects - Ar. Santiago Calatrava

Typology - Auditorium

Purpose - Concrete structure with the form of huge crashing wave

The Tenerife Auditorium, designed by Santiago Calatrava, is a stunning example of contemporary concrete architecture. The structure is composed of a concrete shell made of two cone-shaped segments that sweep upward in a curve, with the highest point reaching 58 meters. The auditorium is supported by only two points at the base, creating a dramatic and dynamic form that resembles a crashing wave. This innovative use of concrete showcases its versatility and strength, as well as its ability to create visually striking forms.

Credits - Prensa 

Long Museum (Shanghai, China)

Architects - Atelier Deshaus

Typology - Museum

Purpose - Cantilever concrete roof with independent shear walls

The Long Museum in Shanghai, designed by Atelier Deshaus, features a cantilevered concrete roof supported by independent shear walls. The curving planes come together to form high barrel vaults and cantilevered overhangs, which are separated by narrow skylights. The smooth finish of the concrete, complete with exposed cast holes, adds to the museum's minimalist and modern aesthetic. This design demonstrates how concrete can be used to create both functional and visually appealing spaces.

Credits - Shengliang Su, Xia Zhi

Villa Saitan  (Kyoto, Japan)

Architects - EASTERN Design Office

Typology - Residence

Purpose - Concrete facade represents a huge tree

Villa Saitan, located in Kyoto, Japan, is a residential complex designed by EASTERN Design Office. The thick concrete walls feature curves and cutouts that resemble the organic flow of nature, with the facade representing a huge tree. The complexes are hidden behind these walls, resulting in the structure appearing as a single, unified entity. This use of concrete highlights its ability to blend with natural elements and create a harmonious living environment.

Credits - EASTERN Design Office

Jubilee Church (Rome, Italy)

Architects - Meier Partners

Typology - Religious Structure

Purpose - Church with modern & organic style, entirely of concrete

The Jubilee Church in Rome, designed by Meier Partners, is a modern and organic religious structure made entirely of concrete. The shells of the church are constructed from prefabricated self-sustaining concrete panels, which are double-curved and assembled dry. The cantilevered sections resemble the extension of sails, giving the church a dynamic and flowing form. This design exemplifies how concrete can be used to create both innovative and spiritually uplifting spaces.

Credits - Meier Partners

Rest Stop Project (Gori, Georgia)

Architects - J. Mayer H. Architects

Typology - Rest Stop

Purpose - Huge concrete monolith like structure with glass walls

The Rest Stop Project in Gori, Georgia, designed by J. Mayer H. Architects, features a series of huge precast concrete structures that shelter petrol filling stations and stretch around glass walls that enclose supermarkets, farmers' markets, and exhibitions. The monolithic appearance of the concrete structures creates a sense of permanence and solidity, while the glass walls provide transparency and openness. This project illustrates how concrete can be used in combination with other materials to create functional and visually engaging public spaces.

Credits - J. Mayer H. Architects

The Versatility of Concrete in Contemporary Architecture

Concrete is a versatile material that can be shaped and finished in a variety of ways to suit different architectural styles and purposes. In modern architecture, concrete is often left exposed to showcase its raw texture and appearance, creating a sense of honesty and integrity in the design. Architects like Zaha Hadid have embraced this quality, with Hadid famously stating, “What's nice about concrete is that it looks unfinished.” This unfinished look adds to the aesthetic appeal of concrete structures, giving them a timeless and enduring quality.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the creative use of concrete in contemporary architecture demonstrates its adaptability and potential for artistic expression. From the fluid forms of Cidade das Artes to the dynamic curves of the Tenerife Auditorium, concrete continues to inspire and challenge architects around the world. As we move forward, the innovative use of concrete will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the future of architectural design.

FAQs

Q1: What is Brutalist architecture?

A1: Brutalist architecture is characterized by its bold and raw use of exposed concrete, emphasizing its strength, durability, and utilitarian nature. It originated in the mid-20th century and has left a significant mark on the architectural landscape.

Q2: How is concrete creatively used in contemporary structures?

A2: Concrete is creatively used in contemporary structures to meet aesthetic and functional goals. Examples include covering large surface areas in organic forms, creating structures resembling crashing waves, representing organic flow of nature, and forming modern and organic-style churches.

Q3: What are some notable examples of contemporary structures using concrete?

A3: Notable examples include the Cidade das Artes in Rio De Janeiro, Tenerife Auditorium in Tenerife, Long Museum in Shanghai, Villa Saitan in Kyoto, Jubilee Church in Rome, and the Rest Stop Project in Gori, Georgia.

Q4: Who are some architects known for their use of concrete in contemporary structures?

A4: Architects such as Christian de Portzamparc, Santiago Calatrava, Atelier Deshaus, EASTERN Design Office, Meier Partners, and J. Mayer H. Architects are known for their innovative use of concrete in contemporary structures.

Q5: What quote about concrete is attributed to architect Zaha Hadid?

A5: Architect Zaha Hadid famously said, "What’s nice about concrete is that it looks unfinished," highlighting the unique aesthetic appeal of concrete in architecture.

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