Scaling Down Eco-brutalism
If you’ve spent any time on social media lately, you might have come across a style of architecture featuring a mash-up of stark concrete buildings with gobs of plants and vines hanging off the sides–like a post-apocalyptic scene of nature reclaiming the urban jungle. It’s popular in Brazil, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and Costa Rica, presumably in climates where plants can flourish year-round. It piggybacks on a much-maligned style that we’ve lived with for decades.
Welcome to eco-brutalism. Before going farther, it’s essential to know what Brutalism is first.
It’s an architectural style that emerged in the 1950s and flourished through the 1970s. It's known for its bold, rough aesthetic characterized by raw materials and exposed structure. It relies predominantly on unpainted concrete, for a textured, industrial look. Along with bold, geometric shapes, it may feature beams, pipes, and other structural elements that were showcased, rather than hidden. All of this was intended to prioritize function over everything else. Wandering around most cities, you’ll find plenty of examples, mostly institutional buildings like universities, libraries, and city halls. It’s a polarizing style that has taken a beating from critics. Some find its rawness and simplicity refreshing and honest, while others criticize it for its perceived coldness.
It’s not a far leap to envision what Eco-brutalism is – a relatively new philosophy taking that raw brutalist form and setting it against the soft, organic forms of nature. It’s about as extreme a contrast as you can get, yet it can create surprisingly harmonious outdoor spaces. It's a bold statement, juxtaposing the harshness of urban life with the resilience of nature, creating a unique and arguably sustainable architectural style.
As debates rage about whether or not this is a truly ecologically-sustainable practice on a large scale, we as homeowners can harness the boldness and practicality of Eco-brutalism on a smaller scale for our yards, patios, and outdoor spaces. Here are some guidelines:
Think Bold
Concrete Canvas: Opt for natural concrete finishes rather than painted surfaces to let the material speak for itself. Remember, the key is to keep the lines clean and geometric, creating a sense of order amidst the greenery.
Vertical Gardens: Let your walls work overtime with vertical planters or climbing vines. Use recycled metal trellises or sleek concrete panels to provide structure.
Sculptural Plants: Select plants with bold, varying forms such as native grasses, Baptisia, Liatris, Canna, low-growing Junipers, and Ferns. Group them strategically to create mini-green sculptures within your limited space.
Minimalism is Key
Less is More: Avoid overcrowding. Every element, from concrete structures to plants, should be intentional and impactful. Use repetition of simple shapes to create rhythm and order.
Multifunctionality: Opt for furniture that serves multiple purposes, like benches that double as planters or raised beds that offer seating.
Sustainability: Opt for gravel landscaping around your concrete elements for better drainage and water conservation. Consider a rain barrel system to collect rainwater for irrigation or incorporate a minimalist water feature like a small gravel waterfall.
Lighting Magic: Uplights accentuate plants and cast dramatic shadows, making your small space feel larger at night. Use strategically placed lights to draw attention to key features.
Remember, eco-brutalism can be a flexible style. Adapt it to your own taste and needs. Don't be afraid to experiment with different materials, textures, and plant combinations to create a backyard that's uniquely yours. So, go forth, embrace the raw beauty of concrete, and let your backyard bloom into a concrete jungle teeming with life.
