The Documentary Podcast MAST: Architecture on water
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Sep 7, 2025 Marshall Blecher, co-founder of the Copenhagen-based firm MAST, discusses the rise of floating architecture in response to climate change and urban space shortages. He shares how MAST designs and builds innovative structures on water, from homes to community centers, showcasing projects in various countries. The conversation touches on the transformation of Copenhagen's harbor, the historical importance of waterborne dwellings, and the sustainability of floating buildings. Blecher's unique insights reveal how creativity and adaptability are reshaping urban living.
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Studio Born From Boat Life
- Marshall Blecher and Magnus Maarbjerg founded MAST to combine maritime craft and architecture and built their studio beside active shipyards.
- Their backgrounds include living on boat-derived structures and growing up on a sailing ship, which shaped their practice.
Floating Neighbourhoods Reconnect Cities
- MAST is designing an entire floating neighbourhood in Rotterdam with mixed housing, commercial spaces and water access.
- They integrate bike networks and boat access to reconnect residents with the city and harbour.
Workshop Next Door Fuels Prototyping
- The MAST studio sits above active boat builders and uses their workshop to prototype full-scale timber and floating structures.
- They take daily advantage of having building projects visible and accessible from their office door.