About Synthesis

As architects, planners and managers, we partner with our clients as trusted advisors.

Synthesis Partners designs unique, modern, practical environments for people to work and for children to learn.

Designing Responsibly

Sustainable Design

Sustainability is at the core of our design philosophy. Our solutions integrate naturally into their environments while combining advanced technologies with passive design strategies that minimize energy consumption and maximize comfort.

Strategically positioned windows and skylights enhance daylight, reduce reliance on artificial lighting, and create vibrant, inviting spaces.

Students arriving at a school campus with abundant daylight, landscape improvements and a welcoming entry.

Making Ideas Visible

Technology

We use modern visualization technologies to make the design and planning process more collaborative and understandable. Building Information Modeling (BIM) allows us to create detailed three-dimensional models, coordinate efficiently with project stakeholders, and help clients evaluate their projects from every angle before construction begins.

Architectural visualization showing a digital concept rendering alongside a completed Synthesis Partners project.

Leadership

Experience that carries a project forward.

Gary M. Underhill

President · Lead Architect

Gary Underhill has been creating successful architectural solutions for clients since 1985. As President and Lead Architect, he directs Synthesis Partners’ architects, project managers and partners in the design and construction of public and private school learning environments, churches, and social-services and community facilities.

Educated in architectural design at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, Gary oversees projects from initial consulting and specification development, establishing project requirements and the roadmap while ensuring client expectations are met. He leads the firm in developing creative, sustainable solutions that exceed project goals while protecting and preserving the environments where people live, work and learn.

Jaycen A. Russell

Vice President · Project Manager

Jaycen Russell has worked with Gary Underhill for over 30 years, developing and completing architectural plans for educational, commercial and church projects. He specializes in portable and modular buildings, modernization and accessibility projects, with experience in planning, programming, construction documents, estimating, bid and construction administration, and construction management.

Jaycen is directly responsible for the projects assigned to him, managing scope, schedule and budget while coordinating with clients, engineering consultants, agencies having jurisdiction, contractors and project inspectors. He balances project and agency requirements through every phase of design, from schematic design through occupancy.

Through his church, Jaycen has led annual mission teams with World Vision, YWAM, Mexico Outreach, Amor and La Roca.

Community

Giving Back

We believe architecture should strengthen the communities it serves. Through service-minded design, volunteer involvement and long-standing community partnerships, we look for practical ways to contribute beyond the project itself.

Whether supporting local organizations, mentoring future professionals or helping make thoughtful design more accessible, we aim to create a positive impact — building not only places, but stronger communities.

Careers @ Synthesis

We’re hiring.

See our Careers page for current open positions.

See open positions