With over 19 years of experience, Elena Gonova is a dynamic design leader known for blending imaginative storytelling with technical precision to create immersive, experience-driven interior design. Specializing in entertainment, hospitality, and gaming environments, she brings a holistic approach to design at Cuningham that carefully balances brand cohesion, spatial flow, and user experience. A natural mentor and team collaborator, Elena is deeply committed to nurturing strong client partnerships and guiding design teams toward creative, high-performing solutions. Her leadership fosters environments where innovation and excellence flourish—grounded in a deep understanding of storytelling and the power of place.

Elena has worked with numerous tribal gaming clients to help realize their gaming and hospitality design goals, including the Puyallup Tribe of Indians, the Santa Rosa Rancheria Tachi-Yokut Tribe, the Stillaguamish Tribe of Indians, and the Ione Band of Miwok Indians.