Opened in 2016 and designed by Architectural firm AW², Phum Baitang is the brainchild of Belgium hotelier Arnaud Zannier. His idea was to offer travelers a luxurious yet truly immersive Cambodian experience. Not only did the architecture draw inspiration from local villages and temples, all of the hotel furnitures were made from Cambodia and surrounding countries sourced materials, and the resort hired mostly local staff. Phum Baitang means ‘green village’ in Khmer and the project stays true to its roots.
The resort consists of 45 private villas hidden in 8 acres of lush gardens and rice fields. The sloping roof, the large balcony, and the stilt raised-above-ground designs are some of the key elements that reflect on the local villages. Furthermore, pieces of handmade antique furnitures picked from local markets such as abacus and carved-wood headboards are used as interior decorations throughout the site.
The spa temple, as it is appropriately named, reflects the stone carvings of its renowned neighbors in Angkor Wat. The seven treatment rooms, relaxation area, sauna, and yoga pavilion are laced with green spaces and open areas.
Phum Baitang won four Asia Hotel Design Awards back in 2016 and it is a member of the exquisite Design Hotels™ portfolio.