Brutal Scotland, a book on Scottish Brutalist architecture

Stark photography of Scotland’s most ‘brutal’ buildings

Growing up in Cumbernauld, I had no idea what this clunky architectural style was, or that it would click with me. I just thought I was weird (well!) liking this once futuristic style which fell out of favour. Thankfully, there are others, such as Simon Phipps, who appreciate this style.

Appreciate may be an understatement for Simon, who is the author of seven books about this subject: Finding Brutalism, Brutal London, Concrete Poetry, Brutal North, Brutal Outer London, Brutal Wales Cymru Friwtalaidd and now Brutal Scotland.

Brutal Scotland is a photographic collection of Scottish modernist, post-war architecture featuring over 160 buildings and over 200 photographs from cities and public buildings to suburban and rural architecture.

These buildings were constructed in a time of hope and post-war dynamism. Time and fashion has meant change with some of these buildings, such as St Mungos Church in Cumbernauld recently destroyed, and others repurposed, pulled down or left to slowly decay. However, many still stay proudly serving their intended purpose.

Brutal Scotland is a beautifully presented book with bold imagery showcasing this divisive style. A perfect coffee table book with stunning images. I have shared some below, however you need the book to truely appreciate the detail.

Brutal Scotland, Simon Phipps, £30, DuckworthBooks.co.uk