Which principle emphasizes the integration of a building's design with its surroundings?

The principle that emphasizes the integration of a building's design with its surroundings is contextualism. This approach recognizes that architecture should respect and respond to the physical and cultural context of its site. Contextualism seeks to create a harmonious relationship between the building and its environment, taking into consideration factors such as local climate, geography, historical architecture, and social dynamics. By doing so, it aims to enhance the aesthetics and functionality of both the building and the surrounding area, promoting a sense of place and belonging.

On the other hand, functionalism focuses primarily on the utility of a structure, emphasizing that buildings should serve their intended functions without unnecessary adornment. Minimalism is a design philosophy that advocates for simplicity and the elimination of excess, often seeking aesthetic beauty through reduction rather than integration with the environment. Brutalism, characterized by its raw concrete and geometric forms, emphasizes materiality and might focus more on the building’s structural elements than on its relationship to its surroundings. In contrast, contextualism specifically prioritizes this integration, making it the correct answer.