He received the WAN Awards 21 for 21 launched by World Architecture News, a prestigious architecture website.

The international competition aims to highlight the 21 leading lights in architecture during the 21st century as well as outstanding, forward-thinking people and organisations who have demonstrated the potential to be the next big thing.

Nghia and his bamboo constructions, including wNw Cafe, wNw Bar, Eco-resort Pavilion in Viet Nam and Hill Restaurant in Mexico, were listed among eight winners of the second stage of WAN's 21 for 21 Awards.

Five winning practices were credited last year and with this year's eight, WAN is over halfway through their search to find the winning twenty one firms. The list will be completed next year.