The Brutalist Playground, RIBA

This summer the Architecture Gallery at the Royal Institute of British Architects plays host to The Brutalist Playground, a new commission by 2015 Turner Prize nominees Assemble and artist Simon Terrill, exploring the cross-section between post-war design and playgrounds.

What is Brutalist architecture?

The word Brutalist actually has nothing to do with being brutal, but comes from the French word 'béton brut' (raw concrete) and came to describe the prolific style of post-war architecture in the 1950s and 60s which marked the major British cities. While Brutalist residential buildings often attract fierce debate, this installation shifts the focus towards the neglected playgrounds found at the base of these constructions. What we find is a mixture of sincere architectural design mixed with a jaunty playfulness, all urging the viewer to consider these landscapes from a different angle.

RIBA events

Alongside this exhibition, RIBA is hosting a season of talks, workshops and events. We particularly recommend the evening with Assemble and Simon Terrill on 9th June for a debate about the rise and fall of the council estate, and a deeper look into concrete as a construction material. Of course there are also heaps of lighthearted events during the evening as well, like painting the walls of the Institute, sipping on a drink from the bar and games hosted by The Friend Zone. This is sure to be a popular free event so make sure you book early. 

This tremendously playful exhibition is great for burgeoning young architects of the family and for those curious about the nature of post-war design.