New Brutalism, as an architectural style, promotes an honest and raw expression of materials and construction. Architects achieve a balance between the interior and exterior in New Brutalism designs by incorporating certain design principles and techniques:
1. Bold and expressive facades: New Brutalist buildings often feature exposed concrete facades with textured surfaces or patterns. These facades create a visual and tactile harmony with the external environment. The exterior aesthetics of the building are carried through to the interior, blurring the boundaries between the two.
2. Integration of landscaping: Architects often incorporate landscaping elements into the design, such as terraces, gardens, or courtyards. These elements serve as transitional spaces between the interior and exterior, blurring the distinction between the two. Landscaping also provides a harmonious backdrop, ensuring that the building feels connected and integrated with its natural surroundings.
3. Large openings and expansive glazing: To create a sense of openness and connection with the surrounding environment, New Brutalist designs incorporate large windows and glazed sections. These openings not only allow abundant natural light to penetrate the interior but also provide unobstructed views of the exterior, linking the two spaces.
4. Continuity of materials: Architects often extend the materials used on the exterior of the building to the interior spaces. For instance, exposed concrete or brickwork can be carried inside, maintaining a seamless continuity between the two. This approach strengthens the connection between the interior and exterior, creating a harmonious balance.
5. Designing with site context in mind: New Brutalist architects pay careful attention to the site context and location of the building. By considering the natural surroundings, existing buildings, and landscape features, they ensure that the design responds to and integrates with the site. By blending into the environment, a balance is achieved between both interior and exterior spaces.
6. Exploration of light and shadow: New Brutalist architecture often creates dramatic effects by playing with light and shadow. This can be achieved through the use of strategically placed openings or the manipulation of surfaces to create patterns and textures. The interplay of light and shadow contributes to the balance between the architecture, the interior, and the surrounding environment.
By employing these design strategies and principles, architects strive to achieve a balance between the interior and exterior in New Brutalist designs, ensuring a harmonious integration of the built form with its surroundings.
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