How To Embrace Brutalist Interiors With FibreGuard’s High Performance Fabrics

‘Brutalism’ has always been a divisive topic. This austere architectural style characterised by geometric concrete forms has its passionate advocates and its equally vociferous opponents. With not a lot in between!

Derived from the French term for raw concrete – ‘béton brut’ – brutalist architecture was conceived in post-war Britain at a time when functionality and purity of design were celebrated. The functional style of brutalism is now making itself known in interiors. Think lots of concrete, organic shapes and a pared-back colour palette.

Here, we take a look at the organic brutalist interiors trend and the ways in which you can bring it to life with the help of FibreGuard’s high-performance fabrics.

What is the organic brutalist interiors trend?

Named after the brutalist architectural movement that first emerged in the 1950s, the trend for organic brutalist interiors sees the use of industrial materials such as concrete, steel and glass, softened by the use of natural textures.

The post-war design ethos of brutalism led to the construction of bold, brooding concrete structures featuring solid, geometric shapes and exposed structural elements. Examples include Trellick Tower and the National Theatre in London, as well as Geisel Library in California and Boston City Hall. This stark architectural style was, and continues to be, controversial. Where some perceive majesty and grandeur in these monolithic concrete forms, others only see ugliness.

The current reinterpretation of brutalism draws on the original brutalist principles of purity and functionality to create a stylish, streamlined interior with a welcome sense of simplicity. A palette of greys, browns and beiges comes to the fore, along with organic shapes and contrasting natural materials such as wood, leather and linen.

“There is a purity and simplicity to it. Perhaps it’s the appreciation for contrived forms juxtaposed with raw materials or the desire for something that feels solid and grounding. Brutalism honours the process of designing by exposing its very construction, and I think there’s something fascinating and subversive about that.” – American interiors stylist Colin King

Key challenges to overcome when creating an organic brutalist interior

The danger with an interior influenced by brutalism is that the space can appear cold and unwelcoming because of its industrial materials and austere straight lines. To counter this, it’s important to introduce natural materials and earthy tones to soften the space and prevent it from feeling too stark.

Adding lots of natural greenery to a space will serve to mitigate the brutalist elements of concrete, stone and brick. And a palette of gentle greens and browns will help warm up a predominantly grey foundation.

Incorporating organic forms is also a key part of nailing the organic brutalist look. Rounded, low-slung furniture with woven, textured fabric is a great choice here, as are curved sculptures, accessories and artworks.

“Compared to the past, the new brutalist style conveys a softer approach that incorporates natural elements like wood, stones, plants, and sustainable materials, resulting in a warmer and more welcoming aesthetic.” – Italian interior designer Giampiero Tagliaferri

Introducing FibreGuard’s high-performance fabrics

FibreGuard’s luxuriously soft fabrics are the perfect way to add in the textural element which is intrinsic to the organic brutalism look. Along with their visually pleasing appearance, our ‘life-friendly' fabrics are stain-resistant and highly durable, making them the ideal choice for busy households.

Thanks to their Stain Free Technology, FibreGuard fabrics can repel substances such as coffee, wine and ketchup. Any spills can be easily wiped away with water and – if necessary – a simple rub with a bar of household soap.

Our fabrics are also resistant to abrasion, pilling and fading. This durability means they perform well in brutalist settings in which they might be placed alongside rough concrete or stone surfaces.

Available in an extensive range of textures, tones and patterns, FibreGuard fabrics offer a substantial amount of choice. From intricately woven jacquards to opulent velvets, high-performance FibreGuard fabrics come in all the finishes and colours you might need for your interiors project.

How brutalism relates to our ‘stillness’ trend

The rugged style of organic brutalism ties in perfectly with our ‘Stillness’ trend – one of the key themes identified in our 2023/24 Trends Book. ‘Stillness’ is all about purity, soft curves and handcrafted textures.

The Madrid apartment of designers Matteo Ferrari and Carlota Gallo is a case in point when it comes to combining our ‘Stillness’ trend with organic brutalism. In this elegant, two-storey home, the couple used a pared-back palette of white, pink and grey to create a tranquil style they call ‘warm minimalism’.

Featuring simple materials such as terracotta floor tiles, Tadelakt plaster finishes and elegant textiles, the light-filled apartment was designed to be a ‘sensorial refuge’ from the hustle and bustle of the outside world.

Related Read: Spring home decorating ideas from our 2023 trends

To sum up, FibreGuard’s luxurious fabrics allow you to bring a much-needed softness into your brutalist-inspired interior. Stain-resistant, durable and easy to clean, FibreGuard fabrics are the natural choice for commercial and contract settings as well as for residential interiors.