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HIGHER ED The Ag Alumni Seed Phenotyping Facility project is an agricultural research facility on the south side of Purdue’s main campus. In this first-of-its-kind facility, the researchers grow full-height corn in controlled environment growth chambers and convey them through large photo booths to record a variety of data points. ​ One of the greatest challenges was to construct and detail the new building within the original 1950’s greenhouse range as this building became the interface between an exiting office/lab building and the greenhouses. The patterns in the precast panels reflect the punched openings of the traditional campus architecture. However, specifically textured form liners were selected to reference plant-life and the work taking place in the building, a means to tell a story through the architecture. Project Highlights This 10,400 SF facility is one of the first in the country capable of imaging full height corn Creative solutions and use of materials for the exterior envelope Use of a pre-cast concrete system saved costs over typical brick construction and facilitated winter construction Adherence to a tight design schedule to expedite a “first to market” position for this state-of-the-art facility Provided video “fly-through” of space for the promotion of the facility to faculty and students as well as potential funding sources Creative development of “science on display” within the facility and from the connecting corridor.

HEALTHCARE IU Health and Synthesis have worked together on a series of phased renovations in the Surgery Department for 10 years. Starting with a master plan illustrating an improved patient/staff circulation across the department that enhanced operational flow and maximized the usable square footing for procedure space and new technologies, this multi-phased project served general surgery, cardiothoracic, endovascular, neurology, orthopedic, urology and pain/anesthesia. While the initial influence for the projects were the integration of new technologies, it became an analysis of operational efficiencies, patient care delivery improvements, the identification of opportunities to expand the surgeries and integrate new building system technologies. The rerouting and consolidation of circulation paths created possibilities for expansion of the surgeries thereby providing staff with ample space for preserving the sterile field amidst the various technologies while giving the circulator dedicated space to support surgical activities. A renovation of an existing department creates potential infection control concerns. This disruption must be measured for operational impact, patient safety, and construction efficiencies to minimize the duration of construction activities. The implementation plan was carefully crafted with all the stakeholders to integrate not only clinical criteria but also facilities considerations. The result was a cohesive plan that prevented surprises for both clinical and facilities staff and a streamlined construction process. Project Highlights Renovation of multiple operating rooms Total of over 70,000 SF Programming, planning, architecture, and interior design services

HEALTHCARE There is recognizable stress when visiting a medical center. From the severity of one’s own symptoms to being exposed to unknown illnesses to the hustle of medical staff moving about. A major goal of any design team is to provide the most calming and professional experience possible to ease anxiety. The major driver of the Hazel Dell Medical Office Building concept was how to provide immediate and easily accessible medical treatment while maintaining organization and privacy. Space planning became a major component in how the operators wanted the building to mitigate concern and ease stress to its patients. ​ Site and space planning studies developed a unique footprint of intentional angles, movement, and scale. The building's architectural arrangement provides a clear representation of its entrance and the different spaces within. This main corridor connects the two medical buildings, creating a dynamic yet functional layout. White limestone is framed and cantilevered over the glass, creating unique, gravity defining elements from outside the campus while bringing light deeper into the offices. Perforated screens provide protection for direct sunlight while maintaining a sense of privacy. Project Highlights New MOB concept to create the most calming and professional experience for every patient Two medical wings connected by a single corridor to create dynamic, functional layout

HEALTHCARE The growing healthcare market has urged the industry to find new ways to engage patients. The design and construction of the seven-story, 200,000 square foot Sandra Eskenazi Outpatient Care Center (OCC) as part of the Sidney & Lois Eskenazi Hospital, endeavored to make those services readily accessible to the community. ​ Today, Eskenazi Health provides care for 1 million outpatient visits per year at facilities both on and off the main campus. While Indiana’s oldest and largest public health care system has continued to innovate, its ongoing purpose and the guiding principle remains the same: caring for all of the people of Marion County. Our studio worked closely with leadership and clinical staff to create a standardized plan block that can be scaled 2X or 3X to flex to the size required for various clinics thereby remaining relevant as future needs change. Project Highlights Lead architect on the 7-story, 200,000-square-foot Sandra Eskenazi Outpatient Care Center (OCC). Coordinated 16 different clinics housed within the 7-story OCC. Also architect of the Women’s Services Department on the 5th floor. The design is focused on integrating OB/GYN services and state-of-the-art private rooms for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

CIVIC Typically, lift stations are enclosed in uninspired concrete block buildings. At Juan Solomon Park, for a relatively low additional investment, the community was able to realize an aesthetically pleasing and interactive program blended into the park’s existing canvas. The new lift station housed in an attractive structure includes a public community room and incorporates a natural stone veneer façade set at varying heights to break the scale. This exterior appearance coupled with the sloped green roof settled the structure nicely into the park environment. This project also includes gathering spaces, a playground, and trail connections. As a priority, sustainability was considered throughout the design; features such as enhanced insulation, permeable pavement systems, pervious pavement, bio-swales, rain gardens, and a green roof were incorporated to help with water management. Project Highlights The actual cost was $14.6 million, $400,000 under the estimated cost. The project commenced in 2009 and completed 2012 Community space accomodating 50 individuals The lift station is the first green roof to ever be constructed on a city-owned building Awards 2013 ACEC National Recognition Award 2013 ACEC Indiana Honor Award Waste and Stormwater 2012 ACI Indiana Chapter Outstanding Achievement in Concrete 2012 ACI Indiana Chapter Project of the Year 2012 Monumental Affair Honor Award for Community Development 2012 ICMA Most Innovative Masonry Design Solution for Utilitarian Use Award 2012 IWEA Large Facility Award 2011 ABCI Judges’ Special Award, Public Works Environmental The building’s exterior incorporates a natural stone veneer façade set at varying heights coupled with a sloped green roof that blends into the adjacent woods. The lift station has three large pumps that move 38 million gallons of sewage daily to the Belmont Wastewater Treatment Facility on the City’s south side and a fourth pump as a spare for emergencies. Now, more than 7,000 homes with failing septic tanks are able to connect to a modern sewer system. The lift station is unique in that it has the first green roof to ever be constructed on a city-owned building. The green roof has 11 plant varieties that absorb rain, manage runoff, and help insulate the building. ​ The community room features floor-to-ceiling windows that look out on the new brightly-colored playground. The fully equipped playground includes swings, slides, climbing structures, and a tile surface made of recycled rubber tires to create a safe and soft environment. In addition to the playground, gathering spaces, trail connections, and tennis courts were also included.

CIVIC In the summer of 2017 the Indianapolis Airport Authority created the Terminal Optimization Committee (TOC) to help facilitate a response to the three most commonly asked questions by its travelers. How do I find Concourse A and B? Where is a restroom? Where can I charge my device? ​​ These questions were the tip of the iceberg in considering the traveler experience element which continually has positioned them at the top of the many rankings. The Indianapolis Airport Authority’s Terminal Optimization Program (TOP) was established to ensure the highest level of customer service and outstanding experiences for its passengers and guests throughout the airport terminal and parking facilities. The program was created to provide travelers an enhanced experience and to highlight the attributes of Indianapolis. The TOP was based on a foundation of research that identified a specific traveler focus group and their inherent expectations for an effortless and memorable travel experience. The importance of the TOP is to maintain the stellar reputation that IND is known for while blending accommodations between generations and cultures, inspiring economic impact with an endorsement of the City’s many offerings, and reinforcing Hoosier Hospitality through an authentic, surprising, and delightful experience. Project Highlights Several concepts developed to ensure new traveler experience around the 5,500-acre campus and 1,200,000 SF of terminal continues to rank IND as #1 Airport in the Nation Study led to the $20 million Sense of Place implementation campaign that kicked off in 2018 and continues today

CIVIC Synthesis collaborated with leadership from all departments to integrate the varied approaches into a campus master plan for 11 buildings, with an estimated total construction value of $122 million. This 11,000SF Administration Building serves as the hub of campus. Finding synergies between departments, The Synthesis team combined office, conference center, and testing laboratory functions to maximize efficiency for the various groups. The divergent uses of the administration staff versus field techs required a deliberate delineation of internal function and external architectural vocabulary. Project Highlights The laboratory is equipped to provide water quality control testing and receive external specimens for similar testing programs. The project opened on time and within budget, January 2014 This new facility included 11 new buildings with construction costs totaling $122 million

CIVIC This new INDOT Fort Wayne Administration Building serves as an icon for the district paying tribute to the Core 4 Values mentioned below and the people who practice those values every day. The INDOT Fort Wayne staff were proud of their previous administration building. It was built in 1976 and for more than 35 years, only had minor changes. So, it was in this spirit that the new Administration Building was designed, as they had outgrown their existing building. Being mindful of the limited resources, the new 26,400 square foot modern facility was designed to create an effective and efficient work environment that promotes an image of longevity, strength and responsiveness to current technologies. The result is a strong and striking building that features large expanses of glass, intersecting masonry planes and sun screens that combined, achieves the desired modern, strong design. A large masonry plane divides the building and creates a logical hierarchy which quickly orients visitors to the site. Visitor orientation is further reinforced by aligning the entry with Hatfield Drive and through strategic placement of landscape elements. Money was saved by reducing the overall height of the building, exposing the ductwork and carefully planning the layout of the deck mounted acoustic material. Acoustic control has been further enhanced by installing ceiling “clouds” which not only echo the look and material of the sun screens installed along the glass walls, but are also highly effective in maintaining a quiet office environment. Project Highlights Worked with the client to reduce the program by a third of the original master plan 26,400 Sq. Ft. modernized facility "Intersecting planes echo the streets cared for by those who work here, the curtain walls bring the outside in, creating stunning architecture that conveys strength and longevity" The floor plan was creatively organized through collaboration with INDOT staff. An item of importance for the staff, was easy accessibility and flow to enhance productivity and effectiveness of daily activities. Another item of importance was the use of natural light. Both important items were successfully addressed by orienting the closed door offices in the center of the building, which allowed all open workspaces to take full advantage of the natural light. The glass walls flood the workspaces with natural light and the interior/exterior sunshades are carefully engineered to control the light. This promotes a healthy work environment as the visual connection to the out of doors enhances the staff’s space. The lobby boasts a striking open staircase designed with glass and steel balusters. The modern architecture is clean, concise, strong and most of all cost efficient. ​ This new facility provided INDOT Fort Wayne employees with a central location. Previously they had three different facilities to house all employees. The central location for all personnel, improves communication and productivity and reduces operating costs. The Core 4 Values of INDOT are: Respect – treat others fairly. Value the individual skills, experience, diversity and contributions of fellow employees, Teamwork – share information and seek input from co-workers and agency partners to achieve goals, Accountability – take personal responsibility for actions and decisions, Excellence – provide exceptional customer service through individual initiative, innovation, and delivery of quality results.

CIVIC The Luminaire project came from answering the first of three primary questions asked when arriving at the airport: Where is Concourse A or B? ​ ​​ The Indianapolis International Airport (IND) is rated by travelers as one of the best airports in North America. With a 10-year old terminal and a changing customer base, the Indianapolis Airport Authority created the Terminal Optimization Program (TOP) to provide the highest level of customer service and enhance the passenger experience. The importance of the TOP is to maintain the stellar reputation that IND is known for while blending accommodations between generations and cultures, inspiring economic impact, and reinforcing Hoosier Hospitality. The Luminaire Project was the first of several created to assist and simplify the decision-making process at the airport. Two large LED displays, visible from the entrance of the terminal, identify the two concourses while complementary displays illuminate the TSA security checkpoints and display current wait times. Beyond a wayfinding tool, these forms are an iconic statement in Civic Plaza. Animations within the Luminaire displays welcome travelers into the space and create engaging experiences. ​ Information gathered from initial research studies indicated that the displays should stand proud of other retail signage surrounding the perimeter of Civic Plaza. Standing at 40 feet tall, the height was determined through several traveler perspective studies to ensure that the Luminaires could be seen from multiple pre-security vantage points. Project Highlights Standing at 40 feet tall, the height was determined through several traveler perspective studies to ensure that the Luminaires could be seen from multiple pre-security vantage points. IND visitors will be intrigued by captivating animation featuring basketballs for March Madness, a cityscape for year-round tourism, and a teaser for the Indy 500. The intuitive animation reacts to the environment, gaining speed as space fills with people and reducing speed in the quieter moments of the 24/7 facility. A form that directs and entertains A form that directs and entertains The form was determined by its height, but also by a desire to provide an eye-catching element within the existing space. Manipulating the form to imply direction adds a layer of guidance for travelers to find the TSA security checkpoint entrances. Likewise, the material was a purposeful decision, introducing Indiana wood into the monotoned steel and limestone space provides the characteristic appeal of nature. As if growing from within, the Luminaires emerge independent of the retail and walkway paths, providing a distinctive, attention-grabbing tool to simplify the decision-making process. ​ In order to maintain the flow of the Luminaires design, a companion piece was attached to the TSA entrances. This addition allows for further wayfinding information to be displayed, such as differentiating the location of TSA pre-check and displaying current wait times through the digital signage. By providing this information, travelers feel more informed and at ease to dictate their travel choices and take full advantage of pre-security retail and concessions prior to proceeding into the secured area. The digital displays not only identify the two concourses but provide a canvas celebrating different events and showcases experiences travelers may have in the city. IND visitors will be intrigued by captivating animation featuring basketballs for March Madness, a cityscape for year-round tourism, and a teaser for the Indy 500. The intuitive animation reacts to the environment, gaining speed as space fills with people and reducing speed in the quieter moments of the 24/7 facility. Additional care was taken to ensure the LED displays respond appropriately as light changes in the facility. The Luminaires provide travelers the tools to relieve some of the stress of travel while highlighting the unique characteristics of the city with the intent to provide a memorable experience in this award-winning airport.

CIVIC The Peek-a-Boo project came from answering one of three primary questions asked when arriving at the airport: Where is the restroom? ​ ​​ Inspired by the internationally recognized iconography of male and female forms, Synthesis created these bigger-than-life installations to meet the need of travelers no matter their destination or origination to feel welcome while visiting the Indianapolis International Airport (IND). The playful forms and undulating LED lights beckon travelers to a whimsical and unexpected experience as they locate the nearest restroom, one of the top three questions on their minds, as identified in a regional study conducted by the Indianapolis Airport Authority (IAA). Adding to the overall canvas while relieving the tension of travel and of being in a new space, these giant figurines skillfully assembled of metal, light, and acrylic create a happy disruption as visitors scan the halls of the public spaces and prove that wayfinding can be more than a sign with words. Easing Travelers Within complex environments such as an airport, wayfinding enhances and reassures travelers’ understanding of the physical environment, reduces stress, and increases their efficiency and time. The fun, lighthearted design creates an enjoyable and memorable user experience that reinforces the uniqueness of Indiana and its many amenities. Bold but belonging These carefully crafted pieces blend seamlessly into the fabric of the space while its simplicity and purposeful proportion contrast the surrounding complexity of the airport, security checks, and baggage claim. The soft glow of white light and colored frame create a bold statement that is understood from great distances no matter the time of day. ​ The bright colors and the peel-away look of each head, affectionally known as the peek-a-boo by the design team, warmly greets each passerby. By delicately pulling the figures into a 3-dimensional element, the playfully lit edge emits beautiful white light to provide visibility from multiple directions. The various colors used to frame each figure remind us of the diversity of the travelers that enter and exit the terminals each day. The light creates reflections on the various surfaces surrounding the installation and encourages viewers to think about the small impact we can have on everyone we come into contact with, to be a positive and bright spot in their day. Art meets Science ​ The uniqueness of its design required a collaboration of specialized craftsmen to create a simple yet impactful final product. A fish tank builder constructed the seamless opaque box that distributes light deep into its façade. A team of skilled metal fabricators worked to make the peeled edge of the symbols feel lightweight and free-floating. The team worked with lighting solutions from around the world to provide a consistent and subtly changing appearance and merged it with technology that allowed control over timing and the spectrum of colors to create a perfect balance of beauty and function. ​ We took this opportunity to create a truly unique and iconic experience in something as mundane as restroom wayfinding. These installations throughout the airport add to the overall traveler’s experience and help to continue to enhance the reputation that the IAA has worked tirelessly to build through their focus on providing the highest level of customer service. These simple, but elegant pieces, speak to all generations and cultures and introduce a new and exciting way to reinforce Hoosier Hospitality.

Ryan Mills, AIA, NCARB, CDT recently completed the Christopher Kelly Leadership Development Program alongside 15 other graduates. This exclusive group of emerging professionals was chosen based on their proven career achievements and community involvement. The curriculum The year-long program, consisting of nine individual half-day sessions, focuses on a curriculum of core professional skill advancement. Participants develop their skills in entrepreneurship and firm management, working together and collaboration, the art of negotiation, client development, community leadership, industry trends, and developing your future in the profession. Scholars are also tasked with the responsibility of establishing the curriculum on day one. Honoring AIA legacy The program was developed in 2013 to honor the legacy of Christopher Kelly, AIA after his sudden passing in 2012. As a respected leader in AIA, the Washington DC architectural community, as well as within the Gensler's Washington office, Christopher had a dignified impact on emerging architects of all moments in their profession and was awarded the AIA Young Architects Award in 2010. Graduates of the program exemplify Christopher's legacy and are the next models of leadership and activism. After ten years with Synthesis, Ryan has lead and contributed to a wide range of projects that have come through the studio. Within the last 5 years, he has served as the project manager and project architect on 25+ higher education projects with a focus in renovations and research environments. Other project experience includes building condition assessments, building code compliance reviews, and water treatment facilities. Recent master planning projects include architect for the Lawrence Trades District Master Development Plan and contributing designer for the IAA Terminal Optimization project. With a background in diverse project types, Ryan has a wide range of experiences to leverage for solving architectural problems. We are thrilled to celebrate Ryan on this most recent accomplishment. Congratulations to all of the 2022 scholars! #AIAIndiana #AIA #ChristopherKellyLeadershipProgram

Indianapolis is preparing for visitors from across the globe to descend upon the Hoosier state for the Indianapolis 500, and many of the families and fans will arrive via the award-winning Indianapolis International Airport (IND). Upon arrival, travelers will be greeted by three improvements that Synthesis and the Indianapolis Airport Authority (IAA) have worked together on over the past several years to ensure our visitor’s time spent in the terminal and civic plaza is as enjoyable and as stress-free as possible. These efforts were all born out of a study conducted in 2017 to create a “Sense of Place” for travelers. This research discovered that travelers experienced anxiety around three topics when visiting IND: Finding the correct Concourse: A or B Locating the nearest restrooms Charging their electronic devices As part of the Terminal Optimization Program (TOP), which resulted from that research, Synthesis worked with IAA on these three initiatives to enhance the overall travel experience and address these concerns. Go big or go home Wayfinding that is immediately identifiable and cuts through the clutter of other retail signage was the objective. This goal was met with the creation of two 40-ft tall digital displays, known as Luminaires, that are visible as you leave the ticketing area and enter Civic Plaza. These eye-popping Luminaires make it easy for travelers to determine where they need to go to reach their desired concourse. Learn more about this unique wayfinding solution here. As part of the original design, the digital displays can change to fit any occasion, like the Indy 500. This is just one of the many ways that the IAA has prepared for the influx of travelers, learn more about how the IAA has rolled out the red carpet for visitors. When you gotta go For anyone traveling, especially those with little ones, the next question on the top of any visitor’s mind is, “where are the restrooms?”. Again, Synthesis and the IAA took a unique approach to help traveler’s ease their minds and quickly identify the closest restroom. Playful forms beckon travelers with pops of light and color to a whimsical and unexpected experience as they locate the nearest restroom. These wayfinding friends create a positive and lasting experience and can easily be seen from across the terminal or plaza. To further enhance the experience, several restrooms in each concourse feature video walls that share the stories of some of our most prominent Hoosiers, such as legendary author, Kurt Vonnegut. These animated vignettes help illustrate that Indiana is more than corn, cars, or basketball, it has a deep and rich cultural history too. Check out these welcoming restrooms Running on empty One of the earliest initiatives that Synthesis was able to help the IAA achieve involved some cosmetic changes to the terminals, including the creation of custom carpet that visually integrates while simultaneously guiding travelers to various spots throughout the concourse where they can relax as they wait for their flight to depart and maybe more importantly, to charge their electronic devices. Synthesis made recommendation to increase the number of charging ports to provide power for every seat in the concourses, ensuring a greater percentage of travelers will have access to an electrical outlet. A fully charged mobile phone is one of the most important security blankets a traveler can have, especially during the greatest spectacle in racing. We are thrilled to have played a part in the effort to welcome everyone to Indiana as we enjoy not only the Indy 500 but all of the related events. Our relationship with the IAA remains strong as we continue to look at new and innovative ways to welcome visitors and enhance their overall travel experience as they visit Indy. Learn about our commitment to our clients and end results, visit our portfolio to see some of our other results. #Indy500