Gensler
Elif Tinney

NCIDQ, LEED AP

Principal, Co-Managing Director

San Diego

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Biography

As a Principal and Managing Director of Gensler's San Diego office, Elif has more than 25 years of experience leading workplace projects with clients including Apple, PIF, SDG&E, Qualcomm, Microsoft, Alexandria Real Estate, Samsung, BNY, and Prebys, among many others.

As the Global Account Design Director for Apple, Elif brings strategic vision and design leadership to its global projects. She is driven by a passion for purposeful design, with mentoring design talent and cultivating high-performing teams central to that effort. In a rapidly evolving, technology-driven world, Elif believes the most meaningful environments are those that foster authenticity, connection, and a distinctly human sense of belonging. Beyond her professional work, she is actively engaged in Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW) Network and CoreNet Global.

Across the built environment, we are seeing renewed focus on meaningful human connection. From cities that celebrate culture, craftsmanship, and community to workplaces that embrace hospitality, the most successful environments foster authenticity, creativity, and belonging. In an increasingly AI-enabled world, the places that resonate most will elevate the uniquely human experience.

Elif TinneyPrincipal, Co-Managing Director

Selected Projects

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project

Petco Park, Western Metal Supply Co. Building

Strategic upgrades to Petco Park’s historic Western Metal Supply Co. Building elevate retail, hospitality, and rooftop spaces while deepening fan engagement.

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project

San Diego International Airport Terminal 1 & Roadways

Reimagining the city as a global gateway; San Diego’s new Terminal 1 blends sustainability, culture, and design to reflect the community it serves.

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project

Southwestern College Student Union

Southwestern College’s new Student Union creates a vibrant center of gravity for campus life, bringing student services and community together to foster access, visibility, and belonging.

In the News

FPO Media Mention

News

[FPO] The Architect’s Guide to San Diego

FPO Media Mention

News

[FPO] Office, Industrial Markets Recovery

Qualifications and Recognition

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design, University of Central Missouri

NCIDQ Certified Interior Designer

Member, Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW)

Member, International Interior Design Association (IIDA)

Member, CoreNet Global

San Diego Business Journal Top Women of Influence in Architecture and Design, 2022

Expertise

TechnologyBuild to Suit & HeadquartersCities & Urban Design