Design a Sustainable Tomorrow
by creating links and value between natural and cultural Landscape, Architectural Heritage, traditional activities and social habits while introducing a sustainable contemporary way of life
by creating links and value between natural and cultural Landscape, Architectural Heritage, traditional activities
and social habits while introducing a sustainable contemporary way of life
"Foundation DaST was founded on the sustainable development model envisioned by Frédéric Coustols nearly 50 years of hands-on projects. Motivated by the destruction of biodiversity and the neglect of vernacular architecture, Frédéric developed DaST as a compass to fight against this loss."
our story
Since the commencement of our first project in 1978 in southwest France, we have embarked on the journey of DaST through measured and concrete efforts of research, restoration and revitalisation of neglected rural and urban communities and landscapes in different parts of the world, envisioned and led by Pierre Frederic Coustols.
We work for and with the local communities, whilst simultaneously inviting contributions from specialists in all relevant fields. We have also turned our projects into real-life classrooms for students from all over the world to practice their field of study, whilst nurturing their self-awareness, confidence and cross-culture mindset. Under our collective effort, DaST has also gradually become a community of cross-cultural and cross-discipline exchange and collaboration. Over the years, DaST projects have been recognized by fellow enthusiasts and professional bodies including RICS Award for Urban Regeneration from HM King Charles III (then HRH the Prince of Wales).
Apart from benefiting the local communities and landscape, our projects are destined to serve as case studies and inspirations for the effort of DaST to flourish in all four corners of the globe, and in the hearts and minds of many.
Such approach inspired the creation of Foundation DaST, which, with active engagement and co-creation with the local community, is currently being implemented in the village of Torrão.
our purpose
We are dedicated to making sure that unique places like Torrão are not only preserved but also improved. Our goal is to help the cultural and natural landscape of this places thrive while supporting its local community development. We do this through teamwork, awareness and creative ideas.
our vision
We envision a world where unique natural and cultural places harmonize with local communities, enabling both to grow and thrive together. In this future, communities flourish in a post-growth global economy, where natural and cultural assets are appropriately valued and utilized. Bio and cultural diversities are sustained, fostering resilience in local communities that remain open and adaptable. Education inspires and empowers the next generation to pursue this vision, creating a legacy of stewardship, growth, and balance for all.
our mission
We restore and protect natural and cultural landscapes as Torrão, in Portugal, and around the world. This means working together, using smart design, and awareness raising so that local communities can take care of their cultural and natural heritage.
empowering resilience
"Fund our initiative or apply your skills to produce real world change and forge relationships by collaborating within multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural teams. Together, we can empower change agents, unite forces, and build a brighter tomorrow for generations to come."
Torrão Lab
Led by Foundation DaST, the Torrão Lab is an ambitious initiative focused on Integrative Urbanism, Arts & Culture, and Regenerative Tourism. As our latest milestone along the journey of Desigining a Sustainable Tommorrow, our project in Torrão aims to revitalize the depopulated and ‘forgotten’ community of Torrão, Alentejo, Portugal, by regenerating the link between natural and cultural landscape, architectural heritage, traditional activities, and modern sustainable living. Through conservation and restoration, research, and community engagement, the project aims to foster Natural, Cultural, Social, and Economic Resilience. It is also a case study and real-life classroom for an alternative accounting system and economic model.
Torrão Lab marks a transformative three-year journey dedicated to collective research and cross-disciplinary workshops in Torrão, Alentejo, Portugal. Through this dynamic initiative, global students and professors generate invaluable research results and findings, which inform a holistic regeneration project for Torrão, setting itself as a case study for similar territories worldwide.
Torrão serves as a global case study, facilitating knowledge transfer and documenting best practices for sustainable development. By establishing partnerships with organizations, municipalities, and academic institutions globally, we encourage collaborative efforts and exchange of ideas, expertise, and resources in the realm of sustainable regeneration.
Torrão Lab embodies the Foundation DaST vision of designing a sustainable tomorrow through academic rigor, community engagement, and cross-cultural collaboration. As Torrão becomes a living testament to the successful application of cross-disciplinary research in sustainable regeneration, it leaves a lasting impact on both the local community and the global pursuit of a more harmonious and sustainable future.
Foundation DaST invites patrons, students and professors to be part of the Lab. Together, we carry on the journey to Design a Sustainable Tomorrow!
