Characterized by its prominent usage of exposed raw concrete, rough massive surfaces, and blocky designs, brutalism is a mid-20th century architectural style developed in the context of post-war reconstruction. By focusing on utilitarian aesthetics, brutalism prioritizes function over decorative design.

It’s bare, geometric, and unapologetically bold. You can stumble upon many of these brutalist works just by walking around the business districts of Metro Manila.

In admiration of brutalist architecture in the Philippines, here are some buildings in Metro Manila that exemplify this eccentric style. There is plenty of soul to find in places you least expect–such as behind massive walls of concrete and steel!

The Atrium of Makati

Originally intended to be a mall, the Atrium of Makati was completed in 1980 by W.V. Coscolluela Architects. Its retrofuturist interiors feature capsule-shaped elevators, hanging lamps, and metallic accents to complement their designs. Exploring the Atrium feels like walking through what people in the mid-20th century imagined the future to be.

Pacific Office Machines Building, San Juan

More popularly known today as Brutalist KFC San Juan, the Pacific Office Machines Building was built by Antonio Heredia in the 1960s. Heredia’s design, according to current Pacific Office Machines president Kathryn Reidenbach, was inspired by stacked typewriters. Its exterior exhibits a massive toothed façade, sloping against each other uniformly. From the inside, you’ll find slanted shapes–the inverse of the exterior slopes.

Makati Stock Exchange Center

One of the many buildings in the Makati Central Business District designed by National Artist Leandro V. Locsin, who is known for his distinct use of brutalism in his builds, the Makati Stock Exchange Center was finished in 1967. This architectural landmark is recognized for its historical significance by Ayala Land Offices and remains preserved to this day.

TESDA Building, Taguig

Found in Taguig, the TESDA Building was designed by Augusto L. Francisco. This monumental structure has the form of an inverted half pyramid, held together by massive slopes that recede into pillars at its base. Its massive fortress-like appearance stands out in the East Service Road, Western Bicutan.

UP Vanguard/DMST Building, Quezon City

Palm trees and concrete grilled walls. With its dated look and surrounding flora spreading over the building, this structure emits an ecobrutalist presence in the streets of UP Diliman. Allegedly built in the early ‘80s, little is known of the architect behind it. Its worn-out concrete textures give it the appearance of an abandoned facility, long overdue for a powerwash!

The Peninsula Manila, Makati

Designed by Gabriel Formoso, the Peninsula Manila was constructed in 1976. While the original design featured a more recognizable brutalist style, this was later heavily redesigned to incorporate neoclassical elements, though it still retained some of its brutalist aesthetic in its structure. The old hotel is a long-standing testament to the luxury it provides while donning its simple, blocky exteriors.

Tanghalang Pambansa, Pasay City

Formerly known as the Theater of Performing Arts, Tanghalang Pambansa (National Theater), completed in 1969, is another one of Leandro Locsin’s grand designs, located in the Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex. Its exterior is a giant slab of concrete situated atop curved beams that descend into another giant slab, serving as its base. The interiors are a stark contrast to its blocky façade, rounded and abstract, while still conveying its brutalist nature.

Salamin Building, Makati

The Salamin Building has been around since the ‘70s. Little is known of the original architects behind this commercial building in Legazpi Village; however, its towering presence among its neighbouring structures is one that commands attention. Its windowed façade curves horizontally into a turret receding into the entrance.

What other brutalist buildings around the Metro did we miss? Sound off in the comments below!