Albert Sawano, Founder of Synchronis, Outlines Vision for Systems-Driven Architectural Design
LOS ANGELES, CA, January 2025 —
Albert Sawano, Founder and Principal Architect of Synchronis, has outlined a forward-looking approach to architectural design that prioritizes integrated systems thinking, advanced technology, and human-centered outcomes across complex building projects.
Albert Sawano Brings Three Decades of Experience to Synchronis
With more than 30 years in the architecture profession, Albert Sawano has contributed to landmark developments valued at over $2 billion, including the USC Village and Century Plaza Towers. Drawing on that experience, Sawano established Synchronis to address what he identifies as persistent structural shortcomings in conventional corporate architecture practice.
"Large firms often operate in silos, and that fragmentation directly affects the quality of the final product," said Sawano. "When the design process is broken into disconnected parts, both creativity and efficiency suffer — and ultimately, so does the client."
Synchronis was built as a deliberate departure from that model. The firm integrates craftsmanship with technology to deliver cohesive architectural solutions from concept through completion, maintaining continuity of vision across every project phase.
A Holistic, Systems-Driven Approach to Modern Architecture
At the core of Sawano's methodology is a systems-driven design philosophy — one that treats a building not as a collection of independent components, but as an interconnected whole. This approach, he explains, is particularly well-suited to the increasing complexity of contemporary construction environments, where regulatory, environmental, and stakeholder demands require a more coordinated framework.
"Architecture today demands that you hold many variables in mind simultaneously," Sawano noted. "Materials, structure, technology, user experience, sustainability — these are not separate conversations. They have to be developed in parallel, informed by each other."
The firm's portfolio reflects this integrated model. Synchronis engages clients early in the design process to establish shared goals, then maintains close collaboration through each subsequent phase. The result, according to Sawano, is a more transparent and accountable design process that produces buildings better aligned with their intended purpose.
Merging Craftsmanship With Advanced Technology
Synchronis employs current modeling and visualization technologies to support its design process, enabling clients to engage meaningfully with project direction before construction begins. Sawano views this technological integration not as a replacement for traditional architectural skill, but as a tool that enhances precision and communication.
"Technology serves the design — it does not drive it," he said. "What we are doing at Synchronis is using every available tool to make the design intent clearer and the execution more reliable. Craftsmanship is still at the center."
This balance between established practice and modern capability is central to the firm's identity. Sawano has consistently argued that the architecture industry's move toward rapid, volume-driven output has, in some cases, come at the expense of considered, intentional design — a gap that Synchronis is positioned to address.
Building a Firm Around Client Experience
Beyond design philosophy, Sawano has also focused on restructuring the client relationship within architectural practice. He believes that many clients — particularly those undertaking complex or high-value projects — have historically been underserved by the level of access and communication available to them within large firms.
"When you work with a large corporate architecture practice, you often find yourself removed from the people actually making decisions about your project," Sawano observed. "At Synchronis, the principal is present. The client has direct access to the expertise they are paying for."
This model of principal-led engagement is designed to ensure accountability and responsiveness throughout the project lifecycle, from initial brief to final delivery.
Albert Sawano continues to be an active voice in discussions around the future direction of the architecture profession, including topics such as design technology, sustainable practice, and the evolving expectations of building clients in both the private and institutional sectors.
About Synchronis
Synchronis is an architectural design firm founded by Albert Sawano, offering integrated, human-centered design services for complex building projects. The firm combines decades of industry experience with advanced technology to deliver cohesive architectural outcomes from concept through completion. Learn more at synchronis.design.
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