Modern Brutalism: Create Bold Decor That’s Surprisingly Achievable
Brutalism, a bold and raw architectural style that emerged in the mid-20th century, is characterised by its unapologetic use of concrete, steel, and an almost monolithic aesthetic. So how can you achieve modern brutalism without the angst?
Brutalism, often misunderstood as cold and uninviting, can be transformed into a stunning and comfortable living space with a modern twist.
By incorporating timber, soft furnishings, and bold lighting, you can achieve a harmonious balance between the rawness of Brutalism and the warmth of a cosy home.
Understanding Modern Brutalism
Modern Brutalism takes the core elements of its predecessor—exposed concrete, clean lines, and utilitarian design—and refines them for contemporary living. The emphasis remains on structural honesty, with materials and forms that are unadorned and straightforward.
In a residential setting, this translates to open spaces, high ceilings, and a focus on function over form. Concrete walls, steel beams, and large glass windows are common features, creating a sense of solidity and permanence.
Achieving Brutalist Decor in Your Home
To bring modern brutalism into your home decor, start with the foundational elements:
Materials: Opt for raw, unfinished materials. Concrete floors, exposed brick walls, micro-cement, Venetian plaster, and steel accents are key. The rough texture of these materials adds an authentic Brutalist feel.
Colour Palette: Stick to a neutral colour scheme. Shades of grey, black, and white dominate, providing a stark backdrop that highlights the architectural elements.
Furniture: Choose minimalist furniture with clean lines. Pieces made from metal, leather, and reclaimed wood fit perfectly. The furniture should be functional and unobtrusive, allowing the structure of the space to take centre stage.
Open Spaces: Embrace an open floor plan. Brutalism thrives on the absence of unnecessary partitions, promoting a seamless flow between different areas of the home.
Warming Up Brutalist Interiors
While Brutalism’s starkness can be striking, it’s essential to add warmth to make your home inviting. Here’s how:
Timber Elements: Introduce timber to soften the harshness of concrete, micro-cement, and steel. Wooden floors, ceiling beams, or even a feature wall can add a touch of nature and warmth. Opt for rich, warm tones like walnut or oak to create contrast against the cooler materials.
Soft Furnishings: Incorporate textiles to bring in comfort and cosiness. Plush rugs, velvet cushions, and thick throws can break the monotony of hard surfaces. Choose fabrics in warm, earthy tones or deep, vibrant colours to add depth and interest.
Bold Lighting: Lighting plays a crucial role in transforming a Brutalist space. Statement light fixtures, such as oversized pendant lights or industrial-style chandeliers, can add drama and focus. Use a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create layers and enhance the atmosphere. Warm LED lights can soften the overall feel, making the space more inviting.
Balancing Brutalism and Comfort
To create a cohesive look that balances the ruggedness of modern brutalism with the warmth of a home, consider the following tips:
Texture Play: Mix different textures to add visual interest. Pair the roughness of concrete with the smoothness of polished wood or the softness of a wool rug. This contrast and juxtaposition not only adds warmth but also prevents the space from feeling monotonous.
Greenery: Plants are a fantastic way to bring life into a Brutalist space. Large potted plants or a vertical garden can add a refreshing touch of green, contrasting beautifully with the stark surroundings.
Personal Touches: Infuse your personality into the space with art, books, and personal mementos. These elements can break the rigidity of Brutalism and make the space feel uniquely yours.
Functional Decor: Choose decor items that are both beautiful and functional. For example, a sleek, metal-framed bookshelf or a concrete coffee table with hidden storage can serve dual purposes, maintaining the Brutalist ethos of utility.
Modern Brutalism Is Gaining Popularity
Modern Brutalism in home decor is all about striking a balance between raw, industrial elements and inviting, comfortable touches. By incorporating timber, soft furnishings, and bold lighting, you can transform a Brutalist space into a warm and welcoming home.
Embrace the beauty of exposed materials and clean lines while adding layers of texture, colour, and light to create a harmonious and dynamic living environment.