Brutaufbau

Brutaufbau is a German term that translates to "brute construction" or "brutal construction". It describes a period in early 20th-century German art and architecture characterized by a raw, unadorned, and powerful aesthetic. This style emerged from a desire to reject ornate and historical styles, favoring instead a direct and forceful expression of materials and form.

Key characteristics of Brutaufbau include the prominent display of structural elements, such as exposed concrete, steel, and brick. Surfaces are often left rough and unfinished, emphasizing the texture and inherent qualities of the materials. There is a deliberate absence of decorative embellishment, with beauty derived from the monumentality and functional integrity of the design. Buildings in this style tend to be massive and imposing, conveying a sense of strength and permanence.

While not a formally defined movement with a manifesto, Brutaufbau is often associated with architects and artists who sought to create a modern, robust, and honest style. It can be seen as a precursor to later movements like Brutalism, sharing a similar emphasis on material honesty and a strong, unyielding presence. The term is less commonly used today than Brutalism, but it captures a distinct phase in the development of modern design that valued directness and uncompromised materiality.