The design for Khéma Flatiron, located on the 27th and 28th floors of the Flatiron by Meridian building, represents a strategic evolution for one of Phnom Penh’s most established hospitality brands. Partnering with Meridian International Holdings and Thalias Hospitality Group, The Room Architecture and Design was tasked with translating the intimate, home-like ambiance of the original Khéma locations into a high-rise setting tailored to a fast-paced international business district.
Strategic brand continuity
The primary challenge was to maintain brand recognition while updating the aesthetic for a contemporary mixed-use tower. To achieve this, the design incorporates signature elements from Khéma La Poste and Khéma Pasteur, including traditional Khmer bricks and dark hardwood flooring. These heritage materials are set in deliberate contrast against sleek glass walls and expansive city views, anchoring the brand’s history within Phnom Penh’s evolving urban skyline.
Operational excellence and user wellbeing
The spatial planning prioritizes both the takeaway efficiency of the Khéma GO concept and the refined sit-down experience of the main restaurant. User wellbeing is addressed through a disciplined focus on environmental quality: high-performance acoustics, layered ambient lighting, and ergonomic seating ensure a composed atmosphere that supports both professional meetings and social dining. Earthy tones and tactile materials are used to soften the industrial scale of the tower, creating a sense of warmth and intimacy.
By balancing cultural narrative with the operational requirements of a modern hospitality asset, the design ensures Khéma remains a relevant and high-performing destination for Phnom Penh’s community of professionals and residents.