(Phnom Penh): Techo International Airport has been recognised among the World's Most Beautiful Airports of 2026 in the World Selection announced by Prix Versailles, a prestigious global architecture and design award.
The airport's architectural excellence, distinctive Khmer design identity, and rich integration of Cambodian culture led to its selection alongside notable international projects from the United States, Germany, China, and India.
UNESCO headquarters has presented the Prix Versailles Awards annually since 2015 to celebrate projects that successfully combine architectural excellence with innovation, creativity, local heritage, ecological efficiency, and positive social impact.
Jérôme Gouadain, Secretary General of the Prix Versailles Awards, commented on this year's selection that airports are increasingly seen not only as transportation hubs but as “symbols of economic, cultural, and social dynamism.”
Previous World Selection winners in the airport category have included Terminal 2 of Singapore's Changi Airport and Terminal B of New York's LaGuardia Airport. Past juries have featured prominent figures from architecture, design, culture, and the arts, including Emma Watson, Lang Lang, and Philippe Starck.
As one of the flagship infrastructure projects of the Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation (OCIC), Techo International Airport brings together international architectural expertise with Cambodia's cultural identity and heritage, placing the country firmly on the global architectural stage.
The British architectural firm Foster + Partners designed the airport, featuring a distinctive expansive roof inspired by the Rumduol flower, Cambodia's national flower.
The roof rises toward the centre of the terminal, reflecting elements of Cambodia's royal palace architecture and ancient temples. Intricate structural details draw inspiration from traditional Khmer weaving techniques, creating the impression of a framework woven from bamboo and rattan.
The airport's design maximises natural light and ventilation while reducing reliance on artificial lighting during the day. Greenery is incorporated throughout the passenger terminal, with Rumduol trees and various air-purifying plants flourishing in spacious central areas.
The combination of natural light, lush vegetation, warm interior materials, traditional sculptures, and Khmer cultural artwork creates a calm, welcoming atmosphere for travellers arriving at the airport.
The international recognition of Techo International Airport's architecture further elevates Cambodia's profile on the global architectural stage. It marks a significant achievement for OCIC, which has played a key role in developing one of the country's most important infrastructure projects.
The airport is expected to strengthen Cambodia's connectivity and support its future development.
=FRESH NEWS
