Brutalism, a term often used with a negative connotation, describes a style of modernist architecture known for its rugged and unfinished concrete surfaces. In Singapore, the view of Brutalism has been shaped by influences from Europe and Japan.
This country is renowned for its beautifully restored ‘shophouses’ and other British colonial-era structures. Additionally, it features modern green buildings that are both visually impressive and energy-efficient in a tropical climate.
In contrast to the carefully restored colonial shophouses, Singapore’s Brutalist buildings frequently suffer from neglect. The shared ownership of public amenities complicates maintenance, leading many property owners to prefer en-bloc sales over renovation as a more financially viable solution.
While many might consider Brutalist architecture less conventionally attractive compared to shophouses, we at SPARK view it as a significant reflection of Singapore’s identity, representing genuine social collective architecture.
SPARK has created a lyrical and romantic space, combining craftsmanship with imaginative use of space. It represents a collision between the ideals of modern Singaporean homes and contemporary living needs.
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