Production designer Judy Becker has become a leading advocate for brutalist architecture, showcasing its unique beauty through her work. Her journey with this style began long before she joined forces with director Brady Corbet to bring the fictional architect László Tóth to life in "The Brutalist." Becker's fascination with brutalism stems from its stark simplicity and raw elegance, which she finds both soothing and captivating. Over time, her passion for this architectural style has grown, influencing not only her personal social media posts but also her professional endeavors.

The film "The Brutalist" has garnered significant attention, earning ten Oscar nominations, including Best Production Design for Becker and set decorator Patricia Cuccia. The movie tells the story of a Bauhaus-trained Holocaust survivor who becomes a renowned architect. To make the protagonist's designs believable, Becker had to create convincing sets within a modest budget. One of the most challenging tasks was designing an elegant library for a wealthy industrialist's home. Initially inspired by a glass winter garden during location scouting in Hungary, Becker devised a plan that involved building wooden floor-to-ceiling shelves with forced perspective. This innovative approach transformed a metaphorical script description into a visually stunning reality.

Becker's contributions extended beyond aesthetics; they influenced the screenplay itself. She suggested that instead of renovating a dilapidated space, the library should be an outdated Art Deco structure ripe for modernization. This change added depth to the narrative, reflecting the character's ambition and historical context. Another critical set, The Institute, symbolized László's complex past as a Holocaust survivor. Becker drew inspiration from concentration camp structures, creating a powerful visual representation of his trauma and aspirations. Despite logistical challenges, such as sourcing materials in war-affected Hungary, Becker managed to craft a compelling environment that resonates deeply with the film's themes.

Through her meticulous attention to detail and creative problem-solving, Judy Becker has not only revived interest in brutalist architecture but also elevated the storytelling in "The Brutalist." Her work demonstrates that even in times of adversity, creativity can flourish and inspire new perspectives. By merging history, art, and design, Becker has crafted a cinematic experience that celebrates resilience and the enduring power of human imagination.