A space for vibrant city life
The plan developed by the Gehl team drew inspiration from other historical cities which, similar to Siem Reap, evolved at the convergence of major trade routes. The project aimed to establish a comprehensive framework that encompassed strategies for a cohesive and phased layout, building typologies, flexible land use, water management, connectivity, and mobility. The plan also emphasizes the creation of attractive streets and high-quality public spaces for both locals and residents.
The masterplan encompassed a series of tasks aimed at gaining a deeper understanding of the site’s potential while delivering a flexible plan for public spaces and phased development. During Gehl’s site visits to Cambodia, the team gained a profound understanding of the unique relationship between daily activities and public spaces in Khmer culture. Gehl observed that the Khmer people are industrious, and the city is alive from early morning until late evening. The vibrant array of colors, smells, and sounds creates an inspiring sensory experience; however, within spatial constraints, these competing stimuli can sometimes be overwhelming. From these observations, Gehl recognized that there was insufficient space to accommodate all these activities while ensuring safe conditions for both pedestrians and traffic flow.
The final phase placed a strong emphasis on establishing a versatile framework, concurrently addressing the organization and connection of public spaces, alongside massing and land use. This approach adopted a bottom-up perspective, setting out principles for scaling up and examining how these concepts could function across various levels: from building typologies to block structures, neighborhood configurations, and the overarching master plan structure.
