One of Siem Reap’s most treasured colonial sites, the historic FCC Mansion, has undergone an extensive renovation and reopened its doors as FCC Angkor, managed by Avani Hotels & Resorts.
Located across from the Royal Independence Gardens and Royal Residence, FCC Angkor was once home to the elegant mansion of the French colonial governor, as well as the renowned Foreign Correspondent’s Club – a place that holds an abundance of history and recognised as a popular meeting place for international journalists, celebrities and travellers from around the world.
Surrounded by towering, centuries-old trees and lush tropical flora, the property features a newly built bar, a restored restaurant, and 80 welcoming, classically renewed rooms and suites.
Inspired by nature, the entire space oozes warmth and perfectly reinforces the vision from the original architect Gary Fell, who effortlessly blended tropical modernity with its French colonial history.
When FCC Angkor began its restoration, it was imperative that the cultural foundations of the property and its surrounding community were carefully maintained. Spearheading this unique project was Malee Whitcraft – the Dutch-born, Bangkok-based talent, in conjunction with Phnom Penh-based Bloom Architecture.
Together they conceptualised the main themes of a home where travellers are able to fully embrace the FCC tradition of passing travellers trading stories. A dedicated team of talented designers from Bloom Architecture elegantly presented the vision of the reception area, room façade and Scribe bar.
The historic mansion remains the focal point, anchoring the resort’s look and feel from the past into the present. Discrete references of the signature French-tropical architectural style are used throughout the new structure.
From the vertical louvers and whitewashed facade to the Khmer art and open spaces that overlook the picturesque gardens, every structural element highlights true elegance, charm and historical beauty.
