The fan-shaped hall is one of the most iconic works of famous Cambodian architect Vann Molyvann and was since its construction in 1961 one of the "landmarks and infrastructures of the newly independent nation".

[1] Mainly used for the purpose of conducting ceremonies for foreign governors, the hall is a designed concrete structure which radiates in a fan shape referencing a palm leaf.

Chaktomuk Hall takes it name "from the original site of Phnom Penh at the junction of four rivers", the Upper and the Lower Mekong, the Tonle Sap, and the Bassac.

[4] After the Vietnamese invasion of Cambodia which sent the Khmers Rouges into hiding, Pol Pot was tried in absentia in an ad hoc tribunal occasionally set up at the Chaktomuk Hall.

This "theatrical setting" would later be replaced by the Extraordinary Chambers of the Supreme Court of Cambodia which would judge the others Khmers Rouges leaders, such as Ieng Sary.

The flexible design allows it to be used more rarely as a theater hall for special programs and concerts in Cambodia,[9] but there is no longer a residential performing arts troupe.

It also included novel bio-climate features[14] and was intended by architect Vann Molyvann to create a harmony with other surrounding buildings  as well as the general landscape, at the point were the Mekong meets the Tonle Sap.

4 main entry doors were planned, with exits on the sides of the room to make it easy for the audience to enter and leave without disturbing the performers.