AND thus the owner of one of the most unique and surreal structures in the Kingdom of Cambodia describes his Dead Fish Tower Inn in Siem Reap , using the only words that can possibly do it justice.

Ever changing, this restaurant and guesthouse merges outside elements with rustic and industrial materials to create a vast feeling of sheltered openness. The multitiered clandestine lounges and dining spaces are scattered throughout the building, providing remarkable views and intimate spaces.

The natural elements come in the form of water features, wooden and live ducks and crocodiles.

The owner, Maboon, has worked for more than six years to make his dream come to life, and he is constantly changing and improving his vision.

Dreaming aside, Dead Fish is also a practical space with much thought gone into providing innovative solutions to make life easier for his staff. A dumbwaiter for dishes and clothesline-style order conveyers make it easier for his staff to work in such a tangle of elevated levels.

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BY MELANIE BREW/ PHOTOS BY MELANIE BREW AND TRACEY SHELTON