Thursday, March 8, 2012

Khemer architecture struggles against modern influences

Mar 08, 2012

Despite classic Khemer architecture such as Angkor Wat, most Cambodians are opting for modern buildings

Western style architecture and housing is creeping up in popularity with Cambodians in current times.

As condominiums and villa-hybrids continue to spread like wild fire across the nation, additionally the real estate market is embracing modern structures such as high-rises, which some believe is detracting from Khemer roots.

Architect and lecturer at Norton University, Keo Vannarin, believes that despite the amalgmation of Khemer and Western style buildings, more indivudals are heavily opting for foreign design over classic Khemer.

He told the Phnom Penh Post, “We should choose Khmer design in order to protect Khmer identity and avoid the loss of identity in the future.”

Vannarin added that since Cambodia remains to be a free market, and due to the destruction of architecture via the civil war, Cambodians are easily influenced by foreign style.

He also said, “We must try our best to teach the next generation about human resources – to protect Khmer identity and promote the value of Khmer architecture.”

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