As a favor I conceptualized a design for a school for a friend of mine who wanted to construct in Rattanakiri (photo left). As he didn’t understand the drawing I had the idea of making a scaled model instead.

With BBQ sticks and broom hair the very first model was created. Eventually came the idea of buiding true to scale models of traditional Cambodian wooden houses.

These models were to be sold to tourists and also interested Cambodians to secure some income for the Kids’ Club.

 

The Krêng as a role model  

 

For the planning of the school the traditional architecture of the indigenous people ‚Krêng’ was essential. Eventually the scaled models (down left) of their housearrangements followed this construction style.

 

Photos of typical houses and information of the Khmer Leu

 

Pteah Pét:

 

Description and Pictures

 

Pteah Keung:

 

Description and Pictures

 

In our workshop about 40 pieces of these true to scale models were created. All these models, tools and layouts were given to Kily Heng, our employee,  after the closing of the Kids’ Club (Photo down left). We wanted to hand him some tools for an alternatie future occupation not only for himself but also for his neighbourhood in the ghetto.

 

In all programs of DIL SE there is an attempt to stick to the traditional construction styles and to preserve the old and experienced but unfortunately mostly forgotten techniques.

 

If you happen to be interested in models or taking part in reconditioning of traditional architecture you are always welcome to contact us. Naturally we would like to help you in any matters of planning or construction of traditional Cambodian houses.