Search Results

Take a look at the progress at Avon Landing, our latest multi-family development masterpiece taking shape! Stay tuned for more updates as this vision is brought to life by WDG Construction.

Synthesis was presented with an exciting challenge when Visit Indy approached us to redesign their Indianapolis Motor Speedway Suite. The space had remained largely untouched since the 1980s, and they sought a fresh, contemporary update while still adhering to the IMS suite standards. As a non-profit organization with a limited budget, Visit Indy needed cost-effective design solutions without compromising on quality and accessibility. To make the bar area truly special, we explored creative alternatives to the traditional and costly wood paneling and millwork. Instead, we opted for a cost-effective approach that retained elegance and durability. A low wall with drywall was accented by a quartz cap, covered in a metallic-looking vinyl textured wall covering. This innovative choice not only reduced expenses but also provided a custom metal panel appearance, elevating the overall aesthetic of the space. While quartz was reserved for the bar area, we decided on a less expensive grey solid surface for the banquette. Not only did this choice contribute to cost savings, but it also served a practical purpose by concealing potential food spills, ensuring easy maintenance and longevity. We carried the grey solid surface from the banquette and matched it with the laminate used on the tables, creating a cohesive and visually appealing theme throughout the suite. Incorporating frugality and style, we decided to forego backsplash in the areas where it was traditionally used. Instead, we extended the wall finish straight down, lending the space a clean and modern appearance while simultaneously reducing expenses. In addition to addressing the challenges of Visit Indy's Indianapolis Motor Speedway Suite redesign, we also explored innovative ways to infuse the space with uniqueness and character. While other suites often featured expensive paneling or intricate 3D elements on their walls, we sought a more cost-effective approach without compromising on storytelling and visual appeal. To achieve a captivating and budget-friendly solution, we decided to create a low-opacity wallpaper inspired by old Indianapolis maps. This clever choice not only added interest to the walls but also served as a means to narrate the rich history of Visit Indy and its connection to the city. By incorporating this creative touch, we managed to elevate the suite's ambiance and stay true to Visit Indy's vision while staying within their budget constraints. By focusing on cost-effective solutions that preserved style, quality, and accessibility, we successfully transformed the suite into a fresh, simple, and contemporary space that perfectly aligned with Visit Indy’s vision. It's a testament to the fact that innovative design doesn't always require a lavish budget; it's about understanding the needs and utilizing creativity to achieve remarkable results. Visit Indy's refreshed suite stands as a testament to the power of frugal and thoughtful interior design.

I chatted with project designer Katie to learn how the Synthesis team used dichroic glass to make the "Celebration Wall" at the INDOT Clear Creek Welcome Center an ever-changing visual display that enthralls and delights all who encounter it. Q: What is the "Celebration Wall" at the Clear Creek Welcome Center? A: The "Celebration Wall" is an architectural feature designed to serve as both an artistic element and a functional component. It’s both a glass rain screen as well as an immersive visual experience. Q: What exactly is dichroic glass? A: Dichroic lass is a film that is applied to glass surfaces. It has multiple applications and is often employed in various art installations. Q: How did the idea for the "Celebration Wall" transform from a checkered sketch to using dichroic glass? A: Initially, the concept involved incorporating LED lights or other moving elements, inspired by the checkered flag commonly associated with the Indy 500. However, LED lights were expensive and less effective during daylight hours, which was a challenge since the wall would primarily be viewed during the day. We discovered dichroic glass and realized it would be a more cost-effective solution that works well for both day and night viewing. Q: Was dichroic glass a material previously utilized in projects? A: No, the use of dichroic glass was a new experience for everyone in the office. About six to eight months ago, the team stumbled upon this material while exploring colorful options for skylights. We decided to experiment with it when playing with options for the “Celebration Wall.” Q: How was dichroic glass applied to the design of the "Celebration Wall"? A: Initially, the glass was planned to be flat, but we found that the product only featured two shifting colors. We decided to angle the glass and it created four distinct colors instead of two. By experimenting with different types of film and angling it at approximately three degrees, we were able to achieve a more vibrant and dynamic appearance. Q: What is the scale of the "Celebration Wall"? A: The glass used in the "Celebration Wall" are large 4’6” pieces. The substantial size was intentional so that it was visible from the main highway. These large glass pieces catch the sun and capture the attention of passersby. With a length of over 300 feet, the wall makes a significant statement… much like entering the Indianapolis Motor Speedway! Q: What was the goal behind creating the "Celebration Wall"? A: The objective was to recreate the spectacle and excitement associated with entering the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, offering a similar experience upon arrival and departure at the welcome center. Serving as a statement piece, the "Celebration Wall" aims to captivate and engage visitors, embodying the spirit and grandeur of the overall design. --------------------------------------- By combining artistic flair with practical functionality, the "Celebration Wall" not only serves as an eye-catching architectural feature but also enhances the visitor experience at the speedway. Its use of dichroic glass adds vibrancy and dynamism, creating an ever-changing visual display that enthralls and delights all who encounter it.

As with all life choices, the choice to become an architect should be carefully considered. If you've ever picked up a book about architecture, you've probably come across the same question: why should you become an architect? You might have asked this question yourself as well. While studies have shown that architects are some of the happiest professionals in America (and beyond), there are many reasons why becoming an architect can be difficult. We're going to explore what it means to be an architect and whether or not it's right for you. You should study architecture if you want your work to impact people's lives. If you're interested in architecture, you need to know that it's not just about the buildings. Architecture is the art and science of designing structures for human use, habitation and beautiful surroundings. Architects work with clients to design places where people live, work and play; they also consider how these spaces can promote health and well-being. Architects think about space--where people will sit or stand, how they'll move through a building--and they think about light: what it does to us when it hits our eyes; how much space we need between ourselves and others in order not feel crowded; where natural light should come from (directly overhead or from other angles). They think about materials too: wood versus steel beams? Stone versus brick? How will these materials affect our experience inside whatever structure we're building? Designing something as complex as an entire city is beyond most people's capabilities--but if this sounds like something you'd like to try someday then studying architecture could be a good choice for you! You should study architecture if you're detail-oriented. As a student, you will spend most of your time in the studio. The architecture major is all about details and that means having a keen eye for detail is crucial. Architecture is not for people who are interested in shortcuts or quick solutions. You can't just throw some paint on the walls and call it good; everything has to be perfect, from plumbing fixtures and ventilation systems to door handles and light switches. You shouldn't study architecture if you expect an easy job. Although architecture is a rewarding career, it’s not for the faint of heart. You should know that you will be working hard and dealing with constant pressure to meet deadlines. You should also realize that you may have to work on several projects at once and juggle different tasks as part of your job description. This can be overwhelming for some people, especially those who aren’t used to multitasking in their everyday lives. Architects are expected to be able to manage many different aspects of the design process—from conceptualizing ideas and gathering information through research, analysis and design models all the way through construction documents and site inspections after construction has been completed—all while working under tight deadlines. You shouldn't study architecture if you hate to answer questions. In order to be an architect, you need to be able to communicate your ideas and designs clearly. If you're the type of person who hates being asked questions and can't stand explaining things (we've all been there), architecture might not be the right career choice for you. The reality is that architects are constantly having conversations with clients and other architects about their ideas. Sometimes these conversations take place in person or on video calls; sometimes they happen over email; sometimes they happen on a piece of paper or software. No matter how it works out, though, an architect's job requires them to be able to explain their ideas clearly so that other people easily understand what it is that they want done. You shouldn't study architecture if you can't handle criticism. In architecture school, you will be constantly receiving criticism for your work. You should be prepared for this because it's a very necessary part of the learning process. Not only will your professors provide feedback on your work, but fellow students in class may offer constructive criticism as well. In order to become an architect, you need to learn how to accept negative feedback without letting it hold you back from improving yourself as an architect. As with all life choices, the choice to become an architect should be carefully considered. Architecture can be a lucrative career path. The skills and qualities needed to become an architect are unique, but not difficult to acquire. Becoming an architect requires a lot of time in school and studying. If you're still wondering whether or not becoming an architect is right for you, we urge you to think about the long-term implications of such a career choice. If architecture sounds like something that would be fulfilling and meaningful to you, then by all means, go ahead and pursue it. If it seems like it would be more of a struggle than a joy—or if there are other careers out there that might make more sense for your personality type—then take some time before making any final decisions about what path to follow.

CIVIC In January of 2021, the design team of Synthesis Incorporated, V3 Companies, and Accompany LLC was engaged to work with the City of Lawrence and the Lawrence Redevelopment Commission to create a strategic Master Development Plan of a Cluster District rooted in the architecture, engineering, and construction industry. Through rigorous site analysis, stakeholder input, and concept development, a Master Development plan was developed with the intent to galvanize community support for this initiative and to bring economic and social opportunity to its people. Strategic investment into select infrastructure and development projects aims to catalyze growth within the site of the Trades District, as well as, set a precedent for similar development to occur in adjacent areas of the city. The team conducted numerous, broad-reaching, stakeholder interviews and generated thoughtful analysis to inform decision making and generate a comprehensive masterplan for the district. From the discovery phase, a site organization concept, predicated on connectivity and safety, was developed. The functional program was overlayed with the site organization, giving the district form and structure. Priority projects were identified to spur development and infrastructure costs were generated to lay out a strategic, fiscal plan for the city. The location of the Trades District provides convenient access to the wider region of the city and state by way of Interstate 465, and the existing construction trades entities currently located on this site provide an inherent concentration of symbiotic industry partners. Leveraging this site as a construction trades-oriented cluster district merges a local strength with a greater, regional opportunity.

CIVIC Renovation of Suites, Quarterback Suite, Locker Rooms, and Administrative Offices. Design and Architecture Lucas Oil Stadium’s architectural style and theme continue to be relevant to the Indianapolis Colts franchise, fans, and Indianapolis. It was desirable to maintain this design theme in renovated areas and refresh suites with contemporary finishes and furnishings that complement the existing architecture. Suites On par with vertical market trends, floor finishes are simple, understated, and do not incorporate the team logo. Finish palette utilizes neutral colors, such as white, gray, brown, and tan, and woven-looking patterns that complement existing wood cabinets and blue stadium carpeting. Flooring textures and colors camouflage wear patterns and occasional food and drink spillage. Furniture styles support how people use suites to entertain, network, and watch events. Existing heavy lounge chairs and coffee tables were replaced with harvest (high top) tables and barstools. The room is anchored around a harvest table to encourage circulation, enabling suite holders to mingle easily with clients and customers while maintaining sightlines of the field. Furniture styles are contemporary and incorporate popular, durable finishes such as light-colored quartz. Quarterback Suite Following vertical market trends, furnishings support a variety of ways that people use this room. To maintain clear sightlines of the field, tall furnishings, such as harvest and cocktail tables, are used farther back in the space with dining height tables and lower seating located closer to stadium entrances. Existing heavy lounge chairs and coffee tables were replaced with “lighter” modern styles in casual arrangements that promote conversation and movement. Like the suites, furniture finishes include popular, durable materials such as light-colored quartz and metal. New Premium Furnishings Stainless steel harvest tables with white quartz tops Vegan leather upholstered barstools New Contemporary Finishes Crisp white painted walls, replacing current gold wall covering Classic gray patterned carpet

MIXED USE Situated at the intersection of the Ronald Reagan Parkway and the B&O trail a former railway turned bike and equestrian trail, Avon Landing is a 256-unit multi-family development constructed on a 19-acre site. The development site was designed to create two new bike and pedestrian trails that would intersect at the center of the site and connect to the B&O trail and the trail running parallel to Ronald Reagan. The intersecting trails were designed with generous landscape buffers on either side that incorporate outdoor gathering spaces, yard games, and other resident amenities such as places to hang hammocks. The trails were meant to be an amenity to the newly constructed neighborhood as well as the users of the larger trail network they tied into. The 10 residential buildings were organized around the two intersecting trails to give the best access to all residents and preference views of the trails. The residential buildings were designed with gently sloping dormer roofs and corner roof planes on that serve as a subtle homage to airplane wings and the sites former use as an airport. Materials such as wood and stone-gray brick were chosen to add an inviting warmth to the structures and tie into the natural landscape of the trail in contrast to the primarily white exterior cladding which was chosen to be bright and eye catching from the trail and parkway. The interior of the apartments were designed with an entry way to allow residents to greet visitors before leading them into the open concept living space that has large windows and full glass doors looking out to the trail and surrounding neighborhood. The apartment layouts include 1 bedroom units, 2 bedroom units, and 1bedroom plus units which include a den or office space. The community building was designed to organize the program into two zones. The first being a semi-private zone that includes the leasing offices, resident study rooms, resident conference rooms, and fitness area. The second zone is a more active public side of the building that includes resident amenities such as a community room with kitchenette, game room, pool support spaces and access to both an outdoor patio and the pool. The two zones are separated by the primary circulation corridor and offset so that the more active side can be located on the back side of the building with the pool and patio but still allow direct entry from the vestibule into the community room. Project Highlights Residential Building 1 - 40,935 SF (x4 buildings) Residential Building 2 - 33,796 (x6 buildings) Clubhouse - 5,150 SF Garage - 3,744 SF (x4)

Lynda Anderson's iconic carpet design was commemorated during Gen Con 2022 Every year nearly 500,000 people parade upon the Indiana Convention Center, and serial convention-goers (such as some of the ~68,000 Gen Con attendees) are no stranger to the iconic carpet designs. When patrons of Gen Con heard the news that it was time for the 12-year-old carpet to be updated, admirers commented how awesome it would be to have some of the carpet for their home game rooms. "Art and design affect how we perceive the world by fostering connections and generating memories. So happy to hear these flooring designs have connected with Gen Con attendees in such a special way." Lynda Anderson For Gen Con 2022, Pin Bazaar created a collectable pin commemorating Lynda's iconic carpet design as a result of the appreciation for the design. Convention-goers had to trade 7 or more pins for the chance to get the rare carpet design pin. Behind the Design The total project included 45,000 square yards of carpet that was inspired by Indiana's geography. Indiana is broken up into three main physical regions, the Great Lakes Plain in the northern third, the Tipton Till Plain in the central third, and the Southern Hills and Lowlands region in the southern third. All of these regions are depicted in floor patterns throughout the Indiana Convention Center. The pin replicates the Tipton Till Plain inspired carpet. Lynda's design is based on aerial photography of farmlands and crop circles.

Synthesis was pleased to welcome five new team members the last couple of months. Meet the newcomers: Morgan Conner, Rebekah Lewis, Youstina Farid, Anisha Paudel, Todd Carlson, and Martha Reyes. Morgan Conner As Marketing Designer for Synthesis, Morgan Conner will be responsible for translating the Synthesis's business objectives into marketing strategies. She earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts at Herron School of Art + Design at IUPUI. Morgan brings a fresh perspective to the Synthesis team and a keen eye for visual design. What inspires you? Despite being an introvert, I'm thankful to have a small but very close network of friends. It’s fun to enjoy life alongside likeminded individuals and it's great to learn and enhance my perspective by spending time with peers of various backgrounds and pursuits. What do you like to do in your free time? On weekday evenings after work I'm typically working on my small business where I make candles, which takes up most of my free time. When I can find the spare time, I'll use all of it that I can reading. Rebekah Lewis Rebekah Lewis is a Graduate Architect at Synthesis. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Studies at Judson University. Rebekah works along side others to put together designs and complete construction documents. What inspires you? Many things inspire me. My family and friends support me as I try to achieve my goals, while keeping me grounded. The children I coach work hard to become the best gymnasts they can be, as they do what they love most. Working in architecture provides me with the same opportunity to work in a field that I enjoy, being creative, while continually growing my skills and meeting new challenges. What do you like to do in your free time? In my free time, I enjoy coaching gymnastics and playing my bass. Tina Farid Youstina Farid earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Egypt, and she joins Synthesis as a Graduate Architect with 5 years of architectural experience in overseas planning and design. What inspires you? Being around my family and friends is the meaning of my life. Their love is an amazing thing! The support, respect, and magic from them never fails. Also, helping people and making them happy is the real meaning of happiness; I am inspired and honored to be part of the things that I can be. What do you like to do in your free time? In my free time I enjoy socializing and going out to meet friends. Also, I like to travel and explore new places and cultures. I enjoy cooking and trying new recipes. Anisha Paudel Anisha Paudel is a Graduate Architect, originally from the land of mountains, Nepal. She earned her bachelor’s in architecture from Nepal Engineering College Bhaktapur, Nepal, and her Master of Architecture from Indiana University. What inspires you? Many things inspire me. Especially, I am inspired by my family and their hard work and dedication to each other. And seeing some results of my hard work also inspires me the most. In the field of Architecture, we need to spend a lot of time and effort to design something and when I see my own design implemented in the real world, it gives me both satisfaction and inspiration to continuing design more projects and spending long days in front of the computer. What do you like to do in your free time? In my spare time, I like to spend time with my family as I hardly get time to spend with them. Apart from this, I am a nature lover and love to travel various places around the world. I love hiking and camping. I also love to create artwork such as painting and printmaking. Todd Carlson Todd Carlson serves as our Director of Studio Operations. His father was a psychologist, his paternal grandfather was an engineer, and his maternal grandfather was a builder. When you look at his family tree, you could understand why architecture is in his DNA. He is motivated to see how our projects can promote wellness through quality design. What do you like to do in your free time? When I'm not at the office, I enjoy investing in the lives of my children and grandchildren or I'm on a continual quest to discover the world's finest hamburger joint. I recently started playing the drums. Now that the kids are gone, I can bang away in the basement to my favorite rock songs and not bother anyone. What inspires you? I know we are supposed to inspire our children, but I’m constantly amazed how often my children inspire me. Their loving, thoughtful, and kind spirit have made me a better person. Martha Reyes Martha Reyes recently relocated from Los Angeles, California to Greenwood, Indiana. She graduated from University of California Los Angeles where she earned her Associate Degree with emphasis in Business Administration. She brings with her an extensive experience as an Executive Administrative Assistant and Office Manager. What inspires you? Living life to the fullest and focusing on the positive. What do you like to do in your free time? Riding my Ducati on the weekends, entertaining at home; trying out new recipes on friends; spending time with my baby, Precious (Highland White Terrier). We are thrilled to welcome these new Synthians! #Synthians

SENIOR LIVING The assisted living building provides care for age-in-place residents in a three-story facility featuring 107 beds and a total area of 86,743 SF. The building caters to assisted living residents of all transition periods of their lifestyles, from apartment-style independent dwelling units with full kitchens and a laundry room to memory care services that fosters development for residents with dementia. The facility has multiple amenity spaces throughout its three floors, including a chapel, bar/lounge/theater, indoor and outdoor dining/activity space, salon, fitness room, and walk-up servery bar adjacent to the kitchen. ​ Adjacent to the main building is a series of 4 and 6-plex villas. These single-story, maintenance-free independent homes provide the ideal transitional community that promotes a sense of community and character while offering comforts such as a gardened dog park, walking paths, and access to the amenities of the main building. Project Highlights 87,000 SF 107 Units including 30 Memory Care Units Project Completion, Spring 2021 Home-like atmosphere Resort-like amenities including: Chapel Fitness center Multi-purpose activity rooms, Social centers Close proximity to health care services

SENIOR LIVING The independent living, assisted living, and memory care campus is located in Cincinnati, Ohio in close proximity to Mercy Health - West Hospital. The facility houses multi-purpose activity rooms, social centers, resort-like amenities, a fitness center, and a chapel. The residences are private and part of a secure community designed for independent living. The campus accomplishes the marriage of convenience with professionally trained chefs offering fine dining, salon services, social events, housekeeping, and the home-like design soothes with warm aesthetics and finishes. ​ This facility was designed and created to give residents on Cincinnati's Westside a senior living destination for Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care. The facility successfully conveys a sense of warmth and a home-like environment while delivering all the technological advantages of a modern care facility. Project Highlights 100,000 SF 117 Units including 30 Memory Care Units Project Completion, Summer 2020 Home-like atmosphere Resort-like amenities including: Chapel Fitness center Multi-purpose activity rooms, Social centers Close proximity to health care services

LIFE SCIENCES Synthesis Incorporated is accustomed to creating solutions to complex design scopes. This project involved the concept of creating a “bridge” between three separate buildings to close the ‘horseshoe’ for the Indianapolis-based pharmaceutical campus. This pivotal project for Eli Lilly and Company’s global marketing team, included 325,000 square feet of integrated open concept office space. Synthesis led the design team to create a solution that resulted in the renovation of three existing buildings and connecting them with one new building which resulted in a dedicated courtyard in the new donut footprint. The new building served to emphasize the brand of the marketing business component, create linkage efficiency for the entire building complex and consolidate departments thereby resolving the space requirements. The integrated design solution incorporated architecture, interior design and landscape architecture elements seamlessly, creating a cohesive work environment and a welcoming global headquarters. Project Highlights 20% below the anticipated budget. Completed months ahead of the original project schedule. 124,000 square feet dispersed on 5 floors in two buildings. Success led to multiple additional projects with the Client. Increased collaboration spaces including social hubs with booths & soft seating areas and conference supporting small to large groups. Provided areas for private work spaces.