As cities across Asia confront the challenges of rapid urbanization, rising temperatures, and climate vulnerability, the transformation of the former airport site in Phnom Penh presents an opportunity to redefine the relationship between nature and urban development.
Oasis Garden is a visionary proposal that seeks to convert the former Phnom Penh International Airport into a large-scale “sponge city” — an urban environment designed to absorb, retain, and manage water while enhancing biodiversity and quality of life. Inspired by the concept of a living green sponge, the project combines ecological resilience with public space innovation, creating an environment where residents, visitors, and local ecosystems can coexist.
The master plan incorporates extensive flower gardens, native Cambodian flowering trees, water features, jogging trails, and interconnected elevated pathways that encourage movement and exploration across the site. More than 25 dedicated activity zones are integrated throughout the development, ranging from sports and wellness facilities to educational spaces, creative workshops, and community gathering areas.
Beyond its recreational appeal, Oasis Garden addresses several critical urban priorities. By expanding green infrastructure, strengthening biodiversity, and implementing sustainable water-management strategies, the project demonstrates how large-scale redevelopment can contribute to climate adaptation while improving urban livability.
If realized, Oasis Garden could become one of Cambodia’s most significant examples of nature-based urban regeneration—transforming a former transportation hub into a dynamic ecological destination and a new symbol of sustainable development for Phnom Penh.
Oasis Garden, about the project:
Project Team: Pha Vanmolyka, Ky Ily, Phai Yalland, Sum Chhenghouy
Location: Former Phnom Penh International Airport, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
