Laumes International Motor Racing Circuit

The Challenge

HKS was challenged to develop a master plan for an International F2-sanctioned motor raceway in Cambodia on a 500-hectacre site that had no existing infrastructure or utilities. The design team also had to ensure sustainability feasibility while being attentive to the client’s budget. And to ensure long-term viability of the event and development, we also had to develop a program that could add value on non-event days and was mindful of phasing.

The Design Solution

HKS approached this masterplan by mapping out user profiles and year-round activity for the site, allowing us to efficiently program building components and maximize viability for the client’s business model. To achieve this, we worked closely with key stakeholders to develop a thorough building program. Our strategy for masterplan design was to ensure a closed water and energy loop on site due to its scale and remote location.

A key driver to stormwater management on site was maximization of the site’s existing contours to create natural bioswales and a central reservoir, a value driven amenity that also acted as a buffer between “active and “passive” activity to create separation for event attendees as well as on-site residents. Due to the developments scale and complexities, HKS developed a comprehensive phasing plan for the client, which was intricately linked to masterplan design, ensuring amenities had adequate site adjacencies, while remaining in sync with the client’s vision and timeline.

The Design Impact

Programs for the site include, the motorsport circuit, a 200-key boutique hotel, adrenaline park, retail, private villas, and an airstrip. To help the client maximize economic viability, we mapped out six different user profiles and determined what they would be doing on the three categories — event days, non-event days, and year around — to ensure the site was sustained throughout the year and suited to the large-scale international events that would occur bi-annually.