Vietnamese Architect Wins the Diversity in Architecture Award 2025

The Diversity in Architecture (DIVIA) Award 2025 was presented to Vietnamese architect Tran Thi Ngu Ngon, founder of Tropical Space, at the ECC, Palazzo Mora in Venice earlier this month.
May 21, 2025 | 16:19
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This international award, worth EUR 10,000, recognizes women whose work contributes significantly to cultural diversity and inclusion in architecture.

Joining winner Tran Thi Ngu Ngon at the award ceremony are the finalists Carolina Rodas & Carla Chávez (Ecuador), Izaskun Chinchilla (Spain), Cazú Zegers (Chile), and Patcharada Inplang (Thailand). There are also the Vietnamese Ambassador to Italy Duong Hai Hung, members of the jury, other nominees, prominent figures from the international architectural scene presented.

Vietnamese Architect Wins the Diversity in Architecture Award 2025
Vietnamese architect Tran Thi Ngu Ngon (far right) received the DIVIA award on May 10 in Italy (Photo: Celestia Studio / DIVIA )

Founded by Tran Thi Ngu Ngon, the Ho Chi Minh City-based architectural firm Tropical Space is known for its use of local bricks, climate-sensitive design, and careful engagement with traditional building methods. Notable projects include the Cham Temple-inspired Premier Office in Ho Chi Minh City and the Terra Cotta Workshop in Quang Nam Province.

At the ceremony, jury member Martha Thorne praised the award winner for "a work that impresses with its clarity and coherence. It does not strive for iconic impact for the sake of recognition, but rather seeks a meaningful articulation of place.

“Although Tropical Space is still young, its work already demonstrates remarkable consistency and a strong architectural language across diverse contexts in Vietnam," said Martha Thorne.

Tran Thi Ngu Ngon noted in here acceptance speech that receiving DIVIA Award was a surprise.

"I have great respect for this award because it inspires other female architects around the world—that is its most important goal. In an interview before the award ceremony, I was asked what I would do if I won—and the answer is: Regardless, we will return to our country, continue the architectural work on behalf of our firm, Tropical Space, and continue making positive contributions to the future of our country,” said the Vietnamese architect.

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