Business Details
37 Years
experience
Award-Winning Architectural Design Services
Synthesis is an award-winning architectural firm established in 1989, dedicated to creating sustainable and innovative design solutions. Our practice focuses on enhancing urban, suburban, and rural communities through architecture that prioritizes environmental responsibility and functional excellence. With over 35 years of experience, we serve diverse sectors including education, automotive dealerships, civic institutions, healthcare, and commercial projects. Our team of accredited professionals holds certifications such as LEED Green Associate and AIA membership, reflecting our commitment to industry-leading standards. We specialize in transforming client visions into durable, energy-efficient spaces that improve learning environments, workplace productivity, and community engagement.Recognized with multiple design awards, our firm maintains a hands-on approach to deliver tailored solutions across K-12 schools, universities, and corporate facilities. Headquartered in Schenectady, New York, we combine regional expertise with a global perspective to address complex architectural challenges. Our mission centers on client success through sustainable practices and designs that foster effective teaching, engaged learning, and enhanced quality of life. By integrating cutting-edge technology with timeless design principles, we create spaces that adapt to evolving needs while minimizing environmental impact. Synthesis remains at the forefront of architectural innovation, balancing aesthetic appeal with practical functionality for public and private clients nationwide.
Services
Architectural Design
Sustainable Planning
K-12 School Design
Automotive Dealership Architecture
Civic Building Renovation
Commercial Development
Healthcare Facility Planning
Urban Master Planning
Historic Preservation
LEED Certification Consulting
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- 35+ years of architectural experience with specialized education sector expertise
- LEED-certified professionals implementing sustainable design principles
- Award-winning portfolio recognized by AIA and ASLA
- Client-focused approach balancing budget constraints with innovative solutions
- Specialized automotive dealership design experience since 1989
Associations and certifications
- AIA
- NCARB
- LEED Green Associate
- LEED AP
Services
Educational Architecture
Synthesis creates innovative learning environments for K-12 schools and universities. Our designs prioritize energy efficiency, durable materials, and flexible spaces that enhance student engagement. We specialize in modernizing educational facilities while maintaining budget constraints through strategic planning and sustainable building practices.
Automotive Dealership Design
Our firm offers specialized dealership facility design with 35+ years of industry expertise. We create inviting retail environments that optimize customer experience while improving service operations efficiency. Our solutions balance aesthetic appeal with functional layouts for new construction and renovation projects.
Sustainable Planning
We integrate LEED-certified practices into all project phases, focusing on energy-efficient systems and environmentally responsible materials. Our sustainable approach reduces long-term operational costs while creating healthier spaces for occupants across educational, civic, and commercial buildings.
Civic Architecture
Synthesis delivers functional civic spaces that serve community needs while maintaining aesthetic value. Our portfolio includes government buildings, cultural centers, and public infrastructure projects designed to withstand heavy use and complement surrounding environments.
Urban Master Planning
We create comprehensive urban development plans that balance growth with sustainability. Our approach considers transportation networks, green spaces, and mixed-use developments to create vibrant, future-ready communities through collaborative stakeholder engagement.
People
Michael Szemansco
Founding Principal
AIA-certified architect with over 35 years of experience, Michael established Synthesis in 1989. He leads design initiatives while maintaining active involvement in professional organizations and sustainable architecture advocacy.
James Graham
Principal
LEED Green Associate and AIA member with expertise in educational facility design. James oversees project teams to ensure alignment with client goals and sustainable building standards across K-12 and university projects.
Teresa Szemansco
Director of Business Development
Responsible for strategic growth initiatives, Teresa connects the firm's architectural expertise with client needs across multiple sectors while maintaining industry partnerships and community engagement.
Michael Goard
Vice President, Operations
Senior Architect and AIA member with 20+ years of experience managing complex projects. Michael ensures operational efficiency while maintaining design quality standards across commercial and civic projects.
Questions
What architectural services does Synthesis Architects specialize in?
We specialize in educational facilities, automotive dealership design, civic buildings, healthcare architecture, and sustainable urban planning with LEED-certified expertise.
How long has Synthesis Architects been in business?
Our firm has delivered architectural solutions since 1989, maintaining continuous operation for over 35 years.
Do you handle both new construction and renovation projects?
Yes, we provide comprehensive services for new construction, facility expansions, and historic building renovations across multiple sectors.
What makes your firm's approach unique?
We combine sustainable design principles with budget-conscious solutions, maintaining a hands-on approach to client collaboration since our founding.
Are your architects certified in sustainable design practices?
Our team includes LEED Green Associates and LEED AP-certified professionals committed to environmentally responsible architecture.
In which geographic areas do you operate?
While headquartered in Schenectady, NY, we serve clients nationwide with completed projects in Florida, Connecticut, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and international locations.
