This design competition pays tribute to the late Vann Molyvann (1926-2017), whose architectural legacy was deeply rooted in Cambodia’s cultural identity, the local environment, and climate-responsive design. At its core, the competition also aims to raise awareness of architecture's role and its creators' in addressing today’s environmental challenges. Monsoon Modernism evokes an architecture that responds intelligently to the tropical climate—one that harmonizes with the sun, embraces the earth, and respects its context.

Since Cambodia’s integration into the international free market, the country has experienced rapid urbanization, often influenced by foreign investments and mass-produced construction materials. This has led to a surge in cheaply built structures that prioritize speed and profit over thoughtful, human-centered, and environmentally responsive designs. In the face of this growing crisis, some developers and architects are turning to the wisdom of Cambodia’s architectural past—particularly the works of Vann Molyvann. His architecture embraced passive design strategies, climate adaptation, and human-centric thinking--qualities that are more relevant today than ever.