Kep Coastal Development to Reshape Cambodia's Shoreline

A transformative, multi-million dollar Kep coastal development is set to begin. The project will reshape the southern Cambodian town of Kep. It aims to create a top-tier beach destination in the region. This new announcement signals a major shift for local tourism and design. The project is called the Kep Exhibition Plaza (KEP). It is led by the developer Kep West.

A New Vision for Kep

This Kep coastal development will create a leading destination. It will focus on culture, lifestyle, and sustainability. Jef Moons, the owner of Kep West, shared his vision. He said the project honors Kep’s heritage. Meanwhile, it shapes a forward-looking coastal destination. “These projects are designed to honour Kep’s heritage while shaping a forward-looking coastal destination that blends architecture, community and culture,” Moons stated.

Architectural render of the Kep development at dusk, with illuminated interiors and pathways highlighting the structures' forms against the evening sky. — An evening view of the planned development, showcasing how exterior and interior lighting will activate the space after sunset. (Courtesy of Kep West)

Innovative Design and Features

The project has two main parts. The first is The Lighthouse. The second is The Beach Club. The Lighthouse will be a contemporary landmark overlooking the sea. It will offer many dining options. Additionally, it will have flexible event spaces and concept stores. A large ballroom will host private events, weddings, and conferences. Next to it, The Beach Club will feature an upmarket restaurant and bar. It will also have an infinity pool and lounge areas for lively beach parties. Moreover, this space will house the Royal Cambodia Yacht Club, adding a nautical flair to the internal spaces.

Detailed architectural render of The Lighthouse building within the Kep coastal development, featuring its contemporary multi-level design. — A close up view of The Lighthouse, a key component of the new development, designed as a contemporary landmark overlooking the sea. (Courtesy of Kep West)

Art, Environment, and Timeline

Construction is set to start in early 2026. The grand opening is planned for the 2027-2028 season. A key part of the Kep coastal development is the Art for Kep initiative. This program will connect local and international artists. It will feature residencies and exhibitions. This year’s residency will inspire the Ocean Museum and Underwater Gallery. The gallery will showcase 3D-printed sculptures. These artworks also serve as living coral reefs. Furthermore, a Mangrove Forest Project will present art and environmental education, supporting a unique eco-artistic study.

Ultimately, this Kep coastal development aims to elevate the city’s profile significantly. The project combines innovative urban planning with rich cultural activities. The goal is to make Kep one of Southeast Asia’s most authentic and desirable new coastal destinations.

Render of The Beach Club's infinity pool and lounge area at the Kep coastal development, overlooking the ocean. — The Beach Club will feature an upmarket restaurant, bar, and infinity pool, set to host lively beach parties and offer a premium leisure experience. (Courtesy of Kep West)

How will this ambitious project influence future coastal developments in Southeast Asia?

A Quick Architectural Snapshot

This multi-faceted coastal project integrates public and private functions. Key features include flexible event spaces, diverse art installations, and numerous food and beverage outlets. The development also incorporates a sand beach, an underwater museum, and an exclusive beach club, all situated along a prime section of the coastline.

✦ ArchUp Editorial Insight

The injection of multi-million dollar private capital into a coastal town signals a familiar pattern: economic transformation driven by tourism. The operational brief requires catering to a high-yield lifestyle, blending leisure consumption with branded cultural experiences. This decision framework prioritizes a de-risked financial model, combining revenue-certain components like F&B outlets and event spaces with marketable differentiators such as underwater art and eco-initiatives.

This strategic blend of finance, marketing, and risk management almost inevitably produces a specific architectural outcome. The result is a multi-venue complex, where distinct structures like a “Lighthouse” and “Beach Club” are engineered not as standalone designs, but as nodes within a larger revenue and branding system. The physical form is the logical symptom of a market-driven placemaking strategy.