Design synthesis and sensemaking are crucial steps in the design process. However, translating raw data from contextual inquiry into design concepts is still a fine art. The textual approach to data synthesis is based on semantic thinking—which refers to the ability of the mind to process language in order to invoke concepts and conceptual representations. In contrast, methods such as mind mapping are based on visual thinking—which refers to the ability of the mind to analyse visual inputs and draw conclusions. While semantic and visual thinking approaches offer unique ways to uncover nuances and complexities of human behaviour germane to design research—there is a dearth of data synthesis techniques which combine the best of both approaches. This paper explores a novel and intuitive method of data synthesis that combines semantic and visual thinking approaches to seamlessly blend research insights into contextually relevant design concepts. Using a three-step process of multimodal mind mapping, researchers documented the raw data collected through observations and interviews, derived insights from the coded textual and visual data, and then translated key insights into design concepts. The feasibility of the method was demonstrated through a design project to co-create tangible interactions with and for students-with-visual-impairments. Future work includes refining the multimodal mind mapping method and exploring its versatility and suitability in different domains of design research.