Stark, severe, geometric, and unapologetically full of concrete, Brutalist architecture has long divided opinion. You either loved it or you hated it. But a powerful renaissance is taking shape as a new wave of architects and homeowners embrace the style’s bold, uncompromising beauty.
Named from the French 'beton brut' meaning ‘raw concrete,’ this architectural style first emerged in the UK in the 1950s.
Brutalist-style architecture is becoming popular in high-end homes. Picture: realestate.com.au
Rooted in post-war reconstruction and championed by pioneers like Le Corbusier, it was defined by unadorned, blocky forms, an honest use of exposed structural materials, and a minimalist aesthetic that prioritised functionality over decoration. And, thanks to influential architects like Harry Seidler, whose use of off-form concrete in the 1960s helped define the style and John Andrews, known for the iconic Cameron Offices in Canberra, Australia has its own rich Brutalist heritage.
Known for its Brutalist designs, Iwan Iwanoff is one of Perth’s most celebrated architects. Picture: realestate.com.au
However, with the arrival of the 1980s the style fell out of favour. Viewed as cold, oppressive, and a symbol of urban neglect and decay (partly due to its use in social housing projects) for decades Brutalist structures were generally considered eyesores.
However, in recent times a a new wave of architects and homeowners are embracing Brutalism’s raw simplicity and reinterpreting the style for the 21st century.
A search for simplicity
The Brutalist resurgence isn't just about nostalgia; it’s a cultural reassessment. In an age of mass-produced, transient design, the style offers a powerful counter-narrative of durability, permanence, and honesty in materials. The raw, unadorned aesthetic, once considered harsh, is now seen as a sophisticated expression of authenticity.
“In today’s world, where we’re constantly surrounded by 'stuff,' the minimalist design and raw, organic features of Brutalism feel kind of refreshing,” explained Rebecca Cardamone, director at Ace Property Agency.
“There’s something nice about the honesty and simplicity in those concrete forms; it just cuts through all the noise. What was once seen as cold or harsh is now viewed as an intentional and practical design choice.”
The use of concrete mixed with organic elements like timber, natural stone and glass creates a sense of "barefoot luxury." Picture: realestate.com.au
This sentiment is echoed by Steven Tropoulos, group director at finance and property advisory consultancy, Highfield Private.
“From what I’m observing with my clients, whether they’re upgrading, investing, or building, is that they are increasingly drawn to these properties because they represent strength, privacy, and timelessness,” he told realestate.com.au.
“Buyers are re-evaluating Brutalism through a lifestyle lens. They’re drawn to the authenticity of raw concrete, the permanence of the structures, and the fact that these homes feel unashamedly solid in a fast-changing world.”
Originally named the MLC Centre, 25 Martin Place in Sydney was designed by Harry Seidler, known for his Brutalist designs. Picture: Getty
Beyond aesthetics, the movement speaks to a growing demand for sustainability. Repurposing existing structures is a win-win, but even new Brutalist-inspired homes are celebrated for their longevity. The inherent strength of concrete means these buildings are designed to last for generations.
From eyesore to icon
Ironically, while Brutalism’s foundational principles were centred around building inclusive public spaces, today’s Brutalist style is more often being applied to high-end residential projects. This is partly due to its striking geometry and dramatic visual contrasts, which make the style highly photogenic and wildly popular on platforms like Instagram and Pinterest.
“It’s not just because it looks cool on Instagram but because it feels exclusive, especially when you’re using heavy, raw materials like concrete in a really clean, considered way,” said Ms Cardamone.
“In high-end homes, that solid, sculptural look stands out from all the generic glass boxes you see everywhere, and as a designer, I can really appreciate that type of design. In luxe properties, it’s also crucial to create spaces that feel timeless rather than trendy, and the use of bold, sculptural forms helps to create that.”
Formerly used for social housing, the Sirius building is one of Sydney's most iconic examples of Brutalist architecture. Picture: John Appleyard
The building has been transformed into luxury residential apartments, with this two bedroom unit currently on the market. Picture: realestate.com.au
The style’s minimalist philosophy and bold forms provide the perfect canvas for bespoke, premium design. The combination of the industrial texture of concrete with organic elements like timber, natural stone and glass creates a sense of "barefoot luxury," as seen in many contemporary builds.
“High-net-worth buyers want statement properties that set them apart,” commented Mr Tropoulos.
"I’ve observed luxury clients deliberately seeking homes that are architecturally daring — they don’t want another glass-box McMansion.
"If we look at the Sirius building in Sydney or Iwanoff’s homes in WA, they carry a sense of cultural weight, and buyers want to be associated with that kind of pedigree.
"The scale and drama of Brutalist design lends itself to luxury now. My clients love high ceilings, big volumes, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow — Brutalism delivers that through its bold geometry.”
Marsala house is one of Iwanoff's most striking properties. Picture: realestate.com.au
But Mr Tropoulos said buyers want the Brutalist look, not the chill.
"Developers and architects are softening it with landscaping, natural light, and warmer interior finishes. So, I see it less as a fad and more as a design style that will continue influencing the top end of the market, especially in coastal and prestige suburbs.”
Ms Cardamone agrees: “All trends come and go, so it’s hard to say how long it will stick around. However, I do believe it will just evolve and you’ll find many architects experimenting with the foundations but adding other playful or warm features.”
4 Brutalist homes on the market
Wondering what this Brutalist renaissance look like in reality? From coastal fortresses to inner-city havens, here's a closer look at eight properties currently on the market that showcase the Aussie Brutalist revival
Coastal clifftop stunner
Perched on the headlands with panoramic ocean views, this architecturally designed home at 40 Dovers Drive, Port Kembla is described as a "marriage of Brutalist, industrial, and Mediterranean coastal styles."
Arguably Port Kembla's most striking home, it blends Brutalist, industrial, and Mediterranean coastal styles. Picture: realestate.com.au
The use of imported Dekton tiles and dolomite marble, alongside striking concrete forms, creates a sophisticated, high-end sanctuary.
“This home shows how Brutalism thrives on context,” said Mr Tropoulos. “Perched above the coast, the raw concrete facade mirrors the ruggedness of the cliffs and ocean. From a buyer’s perspective, it offers not just a house but a statement of permanence against the elements. For my clients, that blend of industrial strength with sweeping ocean views creates both privacy and drama — exactly what luxury buyers are paying for.”
The home sits along the suburb's most exclusive street, with a price guide of $11.8m.
Near new build in exclusive beachside suburb
Mr Tropoulos highlights this Cottesloe residence at 60 Grant Street as a prime example of the style's luxury appeal.
The near new residence was built in 2022. Picture: realestate.com.au
“The interplay of shadow and texture in this property are Brutalist hallmarks, and the beachside setting makes it desirable to buyers who want both a design statement pedigree and lifestyle convenience.”
Contemporary beachside elegance
Palm Beach has always been synonymous with prestige, but Mr Tropoulos said but this home at 28 Pacific Road shows how Brutalism can reinterpret the classic, coastal holiday house.
Clean lines frame the cinematic outlook. Picture: realestate.com.au
“Its clean lines and heavy horizontals frame the sea, creating a fortress-like privacy that many luxury clients now demand in holiday homes.”
Enduring, premium living
Another home demonstrating the appeal of Brutalist materials in withstanding the rugged coastline is this north-facing property in Barwon Heads.
The mix of concrete and natural elements create a sense of modern luxe. Picture: realestate.com.au
Set over a substantial 1518 sqm block between the fairways of Barwon Heads Golf Club and 13th Beach, the home is built from concrete, steel, and glass.
It is on the market with a price guide of $4.95m - $5.4m.
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