Stuff You Should Know Leave Brutalism Alone!
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Mar 12, 2024 Dive into the misunderstood world of brutalist architecture, where stark concrete becomes a symbol of cultural significance. Discover how ancient Mayan temples relate to modern brutalist designs and the challenges these structures face today. The hosts tackle misconceptions and explore the artistry involved in this architectural style. They also discuss the recent resurgence of appreciation for brutalism, sharing humorous anecdotes along the way. Plus, a peek into the evolving landscape of social media for kids adds a contemporary twist!
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Brutalist Renaissance
- Brutalist architecture, despite being widely disliked, is experiencing a resurgence in appreciation.
- This renewed interest is timely as many brutalist buildings face demolition.
Defining Brutalism
- Brutalism's core principle is the absence of ornamentation, letting the building's structure speak for itself.
- This contrasts with structures like Mayan temples, which became brutalist after losing original ornate features.
Brutal by Name
- Brutalism's negative perception stems partly from its name, evoking feelings of harshness and inhumanity.
- The term actually refers to "béton brut" (raw concrete), a material championed by Le Corbusier.