ECCC Courtroom

Honoring a significant history tied to the Khmer Rouge Trials, the design of this space was developed in collaboration with UNAKRT, which provides technical support to the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC). The interior is engineered to blend flexibility and purpose, enabling the environment to function seamlessly as a courtroom, lecture hall, and meeting room. This high-performance adaptability ensures smooth transitions between diverse institutional roles, supporting a variety of legal and educational activities within a single, cohesive space. 

The design prioritizes sobriety and simplicity, reflecting the gravity of the humanitarian and ethical discussions related to the Khmer Rouge Trials and justice issues. It provides a focused and respectful atmosphere for law students in Phnom Penh, facilitating engagement with complex legal topics and historical preservation. The interior’s restrained aesthetic and clear spatial organization maintain an environment conducive to concentration and reflection, ensuring the focus remains on the institution's mission. 

Beyond its practical application, the design merges architectural intent with civic purpose, creating a space that honors the institution’s legacy while serving as a professional benchmark for future legal practitioners. The multi-functional nature of the courtroom learning space allows it to accommodate formal judicial proceedings, educational lectures, and collaborative meetings, making it a vital resource for the legal community. This work demonstrates how strategic spatial planning can support institutional mandates, uphold historical significance, and support the development of Cambodia’s next generation of legal professionals.