Lee and Holohan explore the relationship between local knowledge, traditional techniques, and contemporary architectural practice through their investigation of materials and making processes. During this fellowship, they will immerse themselves in the study of traditional Japanese building techniques, focusing on stone, earth, and bamboo construction methods, timber joinery, and boat-building. Through exchanges with local craftspeople and hands-on workshops, they will gain insights into craft methodologies and the material networks that support these practices. By engaging with architects, artists, and craft practitioners across regions, they aim to deepen their understanding of how local materials, environmental conditions, and cultural contexts shape construction techniques. They hope to apply these insights toward a more sustainable and thoughtful architectural practice that respects both cultural heritage and contemporary needs.
Photo of Lee by Raffaella Endrizzi

Profile
Elspeth LEE 
An architect and educator, Lee’s work is grounded in ethical and sustainable design, with a focus on conservation, material sustainability, and community engagement. Lee holds a Master of Architecture and a Bachelor of Architectural Science from University College Dublin, as well as an RIAI Conservation Accreditation, Grade III. Currently an Adjunct Assistant Professor at The University of Hong Kong, Lee teaches masters level design studios, emphasizing the often concealed systems of architectural construction, maintenance and temporality within an Asian context.

Donn HOLOHAN
An architect, educator, researcher, and maker, Holohan explores the potentials of emerging technology in relation to architectural practice and social and environmental sustainability. He holds a Master of Architecture and a Bachelor of Architectural Science, both with honors, from University College Dublin, and is currently an Assistant Professor at The University of Hong Kong and a Ph.D. candidate at RMIT University. He has received support from the Arts Council Architecture Bursary, Design Trust Seed and Featured Grants, and was selected as a European LINA Fellow in 2023.

Superposition
Experimental architecture studio founded by Donn Holohan and Elspeth Lee
Founded in 2015, Superposition explores ethical and sustainable approaches to architecture shaped by place, material, and community. Challenging conventional models of construction, the practice views architecture as a process of collaboration and negotiation, developing new methods through the integration of local materials, labour, craftsmanship, and community engagement. Superposition’s work has been exhibited internationally, including at PMQ Hong Kong, the Design Museum’s Beazley Designs of the Year, and Design Society Shenzhen. In 2024, the studio was shortlisted to represent the Irish Pavilion at the 2025 Venice Architecture Biennale.