The term Brutalism is used to describe a form of architecture that appeared, mainly in Europe, from around 1945 - 1975. Uncompromisingly modern, this trend in architecture was both striking and arresting and, perhaps like no other style before or since, aroused extremes of emotion and debate. Some regarded Brutalist buildings as monstrous soulless structures of concrete, steel and glass, whereas others saw the genre as a logical progression, having its own grace and balance. Here, Alexander Clement introduces Brutalism as seen in post-war Britain, giving the historical context before studying a number of key buildings and developments in the fields of civic, educational, commercial, leisure and entertainment, social and private, and ecclesiastical architecture. Stunning photographs clearly show the main characteristics of each building, and there are profiles of the most influential architects. Now that the age of Brutalism is a generation behind us, it is possible to view the movement with a degree of rational reappraisal, study how the style evolved and gauge its effect on Britain's urban landscape. Aimed at anyone with an interest in architecture, this book offers such an analysis, and considers the future for Brutalism.
Alexander Clement is a design historian whose interest in architecture began at school and intensified while studying the history of art at Staffordshire University, where he developed a particular interest in twentieth century building. After graduating Alexander maintained his interest, photographing buildings in the UK and overseas. He has worked as a museum curator and fine art auctioneer specializing in ceramics and Asian art since 1994, and has written on various aspects of design history for the Oxford New Dictionary of National Biography and Antiques Magazine amongst other publications. He is a member of the Society of Architectural Historians of Great Britain.
Press Reviews
" What is good about the book is the way the description of the buildings allows the reader to see beyond the misconceived notions about brutalist architecture with its limited terms of reference, based mainly on its external appearance, and understand what is beyond the facade. "
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