Architecture as Convivial Tool

Reading Bast’s Projects through Ivan Illich’s Theories to Explore New Concepts of Comfort

Abstract

This paper analyses the work of the French practice BAST (Bureau Architectures Sans Titre) as a meaningful architectural response to the fragility that characterises the contemporary world. Their methodology focuses on the care, repair and adaptive reuse of existing buildings, in line with Ivan Illich's concept of conviviality, which challenges the traditional logic of design, oriented towards consumption and industrialisation. This paper critically analyses three BAST projects, triangulating them with Illich's theories to highlight their commitment to frugality, reuse and a profound reinterpretation of comfort. The paper shows, with the help of an interview with the architects conducted by the author, how BAST's work departs from industrialised models of production and consumption, proposing instead a paradigm based on simplicity and care. By integrating Illich's theoretical insights with BAST's design strategies, the paper demonstrates how conviviality and frugality can inform contemporary architecture, responding to fragility through a more holistic design ethic.