Discover the Bold and Overlooked Brutalist Architecture in Milan
When most people think of Milan, their minds immediately turn to fashion, classical architecture, and Renaissance art. Yet, tucked away between gothic cathedrals and glass skyscrapers lies a hidden architectural layer that tells a different story — one of raw concrete, geometric volumes, and expressive urban vision. Yes, we’re talking about Brutalist buildings in Milan.
Often overshadowed by more ornate styles, Milan’s Brutalist architecture presents a refreshing and powerful contrast that reflects the city’s post-war modernization efforts. In this blog, we’ll guide you through some of the most underrated yet striking Brutalist buildings in Milan, offering historical context, architectural insight, and reasons why these structures deserve a second look.
What is Brutalism and Why It Found a Home in Milan
Brutalism, born in the mid-20th century, is an architectural movement that prioritizes function over form, emphasizing raw materials — especially concrete — and rugged, monolithic aesthetics. Derived from the French term “béton brut” (raw concrete), Brutalism is often misunderstood as cold or unattractive. However, its intention was never to charm; it aimed to convey honesty, durability, and structural clarity.
In Milan, Brutalism emerged post-World War II as the city rebuilt itself, welcoming new architectural philosophies. While not as ubiquitous as in London or Boston, Milan’s Brutalist buildings served essential roles — in education, public housing, industry, and religion. The style merged seamlessly with Italy’s tradition of modernist experimentation, particularly through architects like Gio Ponti and Vittoriano Viganò.
Top Brutalist Buildings in Milan
1. Istituto Marchiondi Spagliardi
Location: Via Noale, Milan
Architect: Vittoriano Viganò
Year Completed: 1957
The Istituto Marchiondi Spagliardi is often considered one of Milan’s Brutalist masterpieces. Designed as a school for troubled youth, the building’s concrete structure is a dynamic interplay of volumes and voids. The site uses cantilevers, ramps, and open-air corridors to evoke freedom and discipline simultaneously. Viganò, a follower of Le Corbusier, infused the design with socio-political philosophy, giving it both physical and ideological weight.
2. Torre Velasca
Location: Piazza Velasca, Milan
Architects: BBPR (Banfi, Belgiojoso, Peressutti, Rogers)
Year Completed: 1958
Though often classified as Neo-Brutalist or post-rationalist, Torre Velasca embodies many Brutalist principles. Rising 106 meters high, this iconic tower disrupts Milan’s skyline with its mushroom-like silhouette and fortress-like base. The concrete structure is both functional and symbolic — a nod to medieval watchtowers with a modernist twist. Despite early criticism, it has become one of the most recognizable buildings in Milan.
3. Chiesa di Santa Maria Annunciata in Chiesa Rossa
Location: Via Neera 24, Milan
Architect: Giovanni Muzio
Year: 1932 (Renovated in Brutalist style later)
Originally designed in a more traditional style, the interior of this church was radically transformed by Dan Flavin’s minimalist light installation, which blends Brutalist interiors with contemporary art. The church’s concrete walls and stark geometry make it a compelling spiritual space, especially when juxtaposed with the colored lights that redefine its interior.
4. Via Palmanova Residential Complex
Location: Via Palmanova, Milan
Architect: Various Italian public housing developers
Years: 1960s–70s
A lesser-known but deeply Brutalist housing complex, the buildings along Via Palmanova embody the raw and repetitive nature of the style. Built as part of Milan’s push for affordable post-war housing, these towers emphasize modularity, minimal decoration, and utilitarian design — a true expression of Brutalist ideology. Despite their aging condition, they stand as historical records of Milan’s social and urban planning challenges.
5. Milano San Felice
Location: Peschiera Borromeo (outskirts of Milan)
Architect: Luigi Caccia Dominioni
Year Completed: 1967
San Felice is a planned community that integrates Brutalist design into a suburban layout. Dominioni’s use of exposed concrete, robust housing blocks, and integrated public spaces echoes Brutalist tenets while incorporating a distinctly Italian sensitivity. The result is a brutal yet humane environment — not just for living, but for thriving.
6. Università degli Studi di Milano Bicocca Campus
Location: Viale dell’Innovazione, Milan
Redevelopment Architects: Various (built on former industrial site)
Years: 1990s–Present
Though not purely Brutalist, the Bicocca campus shows how Brutalist elements influence modern academic architecture. The use of raw concrete, sharp lines, and expansive open areas pays homage to Brutalist aesthetics while blending with post-industrial and sustainable design. It serves as an excellent example of how Milan adapts and modernizes Brutalist philosophies.
Why Brutalist Architecture in Milan Matters
In a city celebrated for opulence, elegance, and intricate facades, Brutalist buildings represent a counter-current — a movement that rejected superficial beauty in favor of structural honesty. They remind us of Milan’s resilience and its pursuit of modernity during an era of social and political reconstruction.
More importantly, they offer critical commentary on issues such as housing, education, and public welfare. Many Brutalist projects in Milan were built for everyday people — students, workers, children — not just the elite. This democratizing aspect is one reason why Brutalism deserves renewed attention and appreciation.
Controversies and Criticisms
Brutalism has long been a polarizing topic. While some admire its architectural boldness, others criticize it for its perceived coldness or lack of human scale. In Milan, this divide is particularly sharp, given the city’s classical and Baroque legacies.
However, there is a growing movement to preserve and rehabilitate these buildings. Urban planners, artists, and historians are re-examining the cultural and architectural value of Milan’s Brutalist landmarks. Documentaries, photo exhibits, and architecture tours have all contributed to this resurgence of interest.
Tips for Touring Milan’s Brutalist Architecture
If you’re planning to explore Milan’s Brutalist architecture, here are some helpful tips:
- Use Public Transport: Many Brutalist sites are located in residential or academic districts accessible by metro or tram.
- Bring a Camera: The interplay of light and texture on concrete surfaces makes for great photography.
- Go Off the Beaten Path: Some of the most interesting Brutalist buildings are outside the city center.
- Join a Guided Tour: Architecture-specific tours often include lesser-known Brutalist sites along with expert commentary.
Final Thoughts
Brutalist buildings in Milan might not make it onto every travel brochure, but they offer an enriching, thought-provoking experience for those willing to look deeper. These concrete structures, whether housing towers or academic campuses, reflect Milan’s complexity — its willingness to embrace both the elegant and the utilitarian.
So, the next time you walk through Milan, lift your eyes beyond the Gothic arches and Art Nouveau balconies. Somewhere, a Brutalist marvel stands quietly — raw, honest, and unapologetically bold. A part of Milan’s story that is too often overlooked but absolutely worth discovering.
If you’re interested in learning more about architecture firms in Europe, check out this comprehensive list of the top 50 firms compiled by Archgyan. From innovative startups to long-established industry leaders, this list has it all. Take a look and discover some of the most inspiring and influential architecture firms in Europe today.
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