“Brutalist Asia,” curated by Bob Pang and Blue Crow Media founder Derek Lamberton, explores 140 brutalist structures across 28 Asian countries. The book delves into the continent’s unique contributions and architectural interpretations of the brutalist style, particularly emphasizing this architectural movement. Here are the top selections from the compendium:
Brutalist Architecture Asia: Notable Examples
Inter-University Seminar House, Japan
Designed by Takamasa Yoshizaka in 1965, this academic complex in Hachioji, Tokyo, showcases a striking inverted pyramid main hall. As a disciple of Le Corbusier, Yoshizaka played a key role in translating modernist architecture to Japan, contributing to the broader narrative of this style in Asia.
Sacred Heart High School for Girls, Taiwan
In 1967, Kenzo Tange introduced his architectural prowess outside Japan with this structure in the Bali District of New Taipei City. It remains the sole surviving work by Tange in Taiwan, further enriching the landscape of these structures in Asia.
Round Building at Mahidol University, Thailand
Completed by Amorn Srivong in 1968, this building exemplifies his natural architectural talent through challenging cantilevered designs. Srivong’s lack of formal training didn’t hinder his impactful creations across Thailand, including this standout example of the brutalist movement.
For more insights into how modernism intertwines with brutalism, explore the works of Korean architects in Heatherwick Studio’s revitalization in Yeouido, which showcases a blend of modern design principles.
Dafineh Museum, Iran
Architects Nezam Ameri, Kamal Kamooneh, and Hormozdyar Khosravi designed this Tehran landmark in 1978, heavily influenced by Frank Lloyd Wright. It’s considered one of the distinguished brutalist landmarks in the region.
National Cooperative Development Corporation, India
Completed in 1980 by Kuldip Singh, this structure reflects bold forms of form and function. Singh collaborated with Mahendra Raj, known for working on Le Corbusier’s Chandigarh, creating a hallmark of modern Indian architecture within this context.
St Stephen’s College Special Room Block, Hong Kong
Tao Ho’s 1981 design for this prestigious institution featured brutalist additions positioned in front of the historic School House. His project introduced a cohesive focal point with interconnected classroom blocks and a sports hall, embodying the principles of this architectural theme.
Kyungdong Presbyterian Church, South Korea
Designed by Kim Swoo-geun in 1981, this church embodies the Korean gesture of prayer. Time magazine dubbed him the ‘Lorenzo de’ Medici’ of South Korea, akin to Lorenzo de’ Medici, for his pioneering modernist designs that resonate with brutalism in Asia.
General Post Office, Qatar
British architects Twist and Whitley created this 1985 building, adapting brutalism to local climates. It exemplifies how international architects adapted the style to local environments, adding depth to the regional landscape.
Cua Tung Writers’ House, Vietnam
Le Huu Thang, in 1992, envisioned this as a sculptural form rather than conventional architecture. Sponsored by the regional Literature and Arts Association, the house marks post-Đổi Mới architectural evolution within the brutalist framework.
To see how brutalism extends beyond traditional structures, consider the minimalist apartment by Cyro Arquitetura in São Paulo, where unique architectural elements are highlighted.
Interdesign Building, Lebanon
Khalil Khoury’s project spanned from 1973 to 1997, took 23 years to complete due to the outbreak of civil war. Despite its incomplete status, it’s revered as a remarkable brutalist and modernist masterpiece in the Middle East, contributing its narrative to the Asian continent’s architectural story.
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
What is ‘Brutalist Asia’ about?
‘Brutalist Asia,’ curated by Bob Pang and Derek Lamberton, explores 140 brutalist structures across 28 Asian countries, highlighting the continent’s unique contributions and interpretations of the brutalist style.
Who designed the Inter-University Seminar House in Japan?
The Inter-University Seminar House in Japan was designed by Takamasa Yoshizaka in 1965. He was a disciple of Le Corbusier and played a key role in bringing modernist architecture to Japan.
What is significant about the General Post Office in Qatar?
The General Post Office in Qatar, created by British architects Twist and Whitley in 1985, adapts brutalism to local climates. It exemplifies how international architects tailored brutalist designs to fit regional environments.