Synthesis through Trans-disciplinarity

When looking up the word ‘synthesis' in a dictionary, one comes across the following definition: "The combining of separate elements or substances to form a coherent whole."[1]
Based on this definition one could argue that all great architectureis achieved through synthesis in one way or another,and that architects are general regarded as the person responsible for synthesising the different architectural elements that influence spatial and haptic perception.

An exemplar of this is Peter Zumthor's thermal baths in Vals, Switzerland, where synthesis between spatiality and tactility, materials and colours, architecture and landscape provides a great architectural experience. Another is Jörn Utzon's church in Bagsvaerd, Denmark, where the treatment of construction, acoustics and daylight ingeniously fuses with the church's function and architectural expression, once again offering a unique architectural experience.

In relation to ‘environmentally sustainable' architecture the importance of synthesis becomes even more apparent, however, as the success of the design depends on how, and if, a synthesis is achieved between technology and architectural design.[2]
This understanding has led me to consider how synthesis is a requirement for creating successful ‘environmentally sustainable' architecture through the application of trans-disciplinarity, which leads to an increased awareness of the differences in decision-making as well as that of communication barriers between the different professions.
These parameters play a fundamental role in relation to the achievement of synthesis in a world where professions merge and new hybrid professions and educations emerge.

[1]: dictionary.reference.com 2006: http://dictionary.reference.com/search?q=synthesis (accessed April 1st 2006)
[2]: If synthesis is not successful the result will often be either a piece of ‘environmentally un-sustainable' architecture or an ‘environmentally sustainable' building. A building is taken to be an envelope which merely provides shelter, whereas architecture includes appreciation of experiential qualities such as the spatiality of the room, colour, tactility and smell of materials, and lighting.