ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Brutalism

Brutalism is a style of architecture that was popular in the late 1950s to the mid-1970s. It is called 'brutalism' because it focuses on using raw and unpolished materials like concrete, brick, and metal to create primary shapes like cubes and rectangles.

Brutalist buildings look like big blocks that fit together like a puzzle. They don't usually have fancy decorations or colors like other buildings. Instead, they have a rough and industrial look that might seem unattractive to some.

The style became popular because it was cheap and simple to construct. Architects wanted to make buildings that were functional and easy to maintain, so they opted for using simple, robust materials. They also wanted their structures to be expressive of their materials, rather than hiding those materials behind ornamentation.

Though not everyone likes the way brutalist buildings look, some people think they are interesting and important because they show a different side of architecture compared to other styles.

Today, some brutalist buildings are being torn down, while others are being protected by people who think they are important to history and architecture. Despite the controversy, the style has made an indelible mark on the world of architecture.
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