Brutalism, also known as Brutalist architecture, is a style that emerged in the 1950s and grew out of the early-20th century modernist movement. Brutalist buildings are characterized by their massive, ‘blocky’ appearance with a rigid geometric style and large-scale use of poured concrete. The style was first associated in architecture with Le Corbusier, who designed the Cite Radieuse in Marseilles.⁠ ⁠ Brutalism is not however named for its foreboding concrete appearance, rather it derives its name from the French term béton brut or “raw concrete.” While this style was popular in 50-60s, the movement began to decline in the 1970s, having been much criticized for being unwelcoming and inhuman. However, we are seeing a return to the trend of these monolithic concrete structures.⁠ ⁠ Are you a fan of brutalism? Name your favorite Chicagoland brutalist building in the comments below ⬇️ and click through our link in bio for a map to take a self-guided tour of some of the best examples of thi...