Join prominent voices in design for an insightful dialogue on Cambodia’s architectural landscape, where the vernacular meets the contemporary. This event is part of the Modern Architecture: Echoes + Reflections—a major exhibition dedicated to celebrating the rich heritage and enduring influence of the New Khmer Architecture movement.
This dialogue is dedicated to exploring lesser-seen vernacular inspired contemporary architecture projects by local and international architects—alongside students. Through case studies spanning residential projects, spiritual spaces, schools, community centres and spaces, the discussion will explore the real-world challenges of shaping spaces for and with Cambodia’s diverse communities.
Our panel of architects, designers, and community organisers — representing London-based Of Architecture, Siem Reap-based UAD Architects, Phnom Penh-based Hiroshima House and Chen Dam Daek (ចិនដំដែក) Project, as part of Southeast Asia Neighborhoods Network — will examine the challenges and responsibilities of designing architecture that resonates with cultural depth and community needs.
The keynote will be delivered by Pen Sereypagna, director of New Khmer - Architecture (NK-A) and the Vann Molyvann Project. Co-author of Genealogy of Bassac (UR Terreform, 2021)—recipient of the 2019 Graham Publication Award—he is currently a PhD candidate in Architecture and Urbanism at the University of Hong Kong. His research on Phnom Penh’s urban form and Cambodian modernist architecture has been showcased in exhibitions and presentations across Cambodia, Taiwan, Australia, the United States, and Southeast Asia.
Penhleak Chan, general manager of Raintree and director of the exhibition will moderate the discussion.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, November 23
Time: 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Location: The Canopy
Fee: $5 per adult, $3 per student (including light refreshments)
Register here >> Design Dialogue ft. The Gentry Hub
Agenda:
2:00 PM - 2:10 PM: Arrival and registration
2:10 PM - 2:20 PM: Welcome and introduction
2:20 PM - 2:30 PM: Opening remark
2:30 PM - 2:50 PM: Keynote by Pen Sereypagna, director of NK-A and the Vann Molyvann Project
2:50 PM - 4:10 PM: Project presentations by the panelists (20 minutes each)
4:10 PM - 4:20 PM: Break
4:20 PM - 5:00 PM: Panel discussion moderated by Penhleak Chan
5:00 PM - 5:50 PM: Q&As session
5:50 PM - 6:00 PM: Closing remark
We look forward to seeing you at the Canopy!
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About The Vann Molyvann Project + NK-A
The Vann Molyvann Project is a collaborative team of architects, students, and researchers dedicated to documenting the legacy of Vann Molyvann and other modernist architects in Cambodia. Our mission is threefold: to enhance the accessibility of architectural archives, elevate the profile of New Khmer Architecture, and foster collaboration between Cambodian and international architects. Through exhibitions and publications, we strive to connect diverse audiences with Cambodia’s rich modern heritage and develop educational resources for future generations.
About the Gentry Hub
The Gentry Hub is Cambodia’s leading architecture media platform, championing the democratisation of architectural and urban design knowledge. With a mission to elevate the discourse, the platform empowers both professionals and enthusiasts by making cutting-edge insights and innovations accessible to all.