Factory Phnom Penh
Okay, don’t panic. There are actually two “Factories” in Phnom Penh: Factory Phnom Penh and Friends Factory. They’re often confused, but they host two very different communities.
Factory Phnom Penh is a large mixed-use creative and business complex that brings together local entrepreneurs, artists, and cultural initiatives. Set in what used to be a garment factory, the space still carries that industrial aesthetic, now reimagined into something much more dynamic, creative and fun.
As you walk through, you’ll come across artists like Fonki, whose contemporary Khmer murals are painted directly onto the walls of the complex. The art isn’t just displayed, it’s embedded into the space itself, creating this very urban and rebellious vibe to the space.
Beyond that, the site includes co-working spaces, cafés, restaurants, and souvenir shops. It also houses the second venue of The Last Stage Theater Riverside, a continuation of the contemporary theatre structure I mentioned in an earlier piece, but in a very different setting.
One of the more unexpected features is the skateboard park, which adds to the place's overall energy. It captures a younger, more urban side of Phnom Penh, but accessible as you wander through its huge space, walkable and breathable.
The programming reflects that diversity. Factory Phnom Penh regularly hosts a wide range of events, from Pride Fest celebrations to boxing matches, film festivals, and more. I’ve ended up attending quite a few of them simply because there’s always something going on, and the variety makes it easy to keep coming back. This time, there was the “Sip sip” coffee and drinks festival a dog fashion show, yes you heard that right.
That said, the space is massive, and it doesn’t always reveal itself immediately. The best way to navigate it is to check their social media beforehand to see what’s happening; you’ll get a lot more out of your visit that way.
The only real downside is its location. It sits a bit further south from the central parts of Phnom Penh, so getting there can involve some traffic. But once you arrive, it’s clear that the distance is part of what allows it to exist at this scale. It’s definitely worth the trip.
