Exploring the Beauty of Brutalist Architecture Through Concrete Models

'Brutalism is incredible, it's packed with beauty'

Artist Adam Carthy is on a mission to change the perception of Brutalist architecture through his intricate concrete models. Since founding Spaceplay nearly a decade ago, he has sold about 10,000 models, each crafted with care to help people feel a connection to the buildings they represent.

"There's a perception that Brutalism is soulless and empty but it is packed with beauty," says Carthy, who dedicates months to creating each model. His goal is to foster a sense of pride in people's memories associated with these structures.

He believes many feel a connection to Brutalist buildings but are often hesitant to express it. Carthy explains, "People feel connected to these buildings but they often feel a bit embarrassed about sharing their connection and love."

A Global Appreciation for Brutalism

After losing his job in architecture, Carthy turned his passion into a full-time business, shipping models to countries like Japan, Canada, Australia, and South Korea.

"There are millions of people who think these buildings are beautiful; there's a global community of appreciation," he shares.

Brutalism, characterized by its vast, grey structures and known for its post-war origins, was named after the French term 'beton brut', meaning raw concrete. Carthy hopes to challenge the notion that these buildings are ugly, stating, "Brutalism represents a freedom to be expressive and has a distinctive and unique design."

Celebrating Local Architecture

Growing up in Birmingham, Carthy's early models were inspired by the city's architecture. He aims to encourage people to reassess their opinions about their surroundings.

"Birmingham is an understated city and it has an incredible energy but it never champions itself," he reflects.

With each model, Carthy not only celebrates architecture but also the stories behind these structures, believing they embody shared experiences and memories.

Brutalism is not just about concrete; it's about the community and the narratives that these buildings hold, making Carthy's work a vital part of preserving these stories for future generations.