Brown Riverside

Location: Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Project Type: Commercial
Services: Architecture & Interior Design
Status: Completed 2012
Architects: Hok Kang

Cambodia’s first coffee roastery, Brown Coffee and Bakery, renovated a 1900’s era former post office into a riverside cafe on Preah Sisowath Quay, Wat Phnom. To retain the heritage character of the building, the original brick was exposed and the finishes pay homage to early 19th century design. The building’s original archways are highlighted with black, iron-framed windows to anchor the space and balance modern character with historical industrial design. The archways are repeated throughout the cafe to convey a sense of rhythm and to let in plentiful natural light. An open floor plan alludes to the community focus of the cafe that invites conversation, work, and rest.