What does it take to build a hospitality and living brand that earns trust while continuing to evolve across markets? For Sandeep Ahuja, Managing Director of Atmosphere Living & One Atmosphere, the answer lies in consistency, meaningful experiences and a clear understanding of what customers truly value.

In an exclusive conversation with Hospitality News, Sandeep shared insights into the leadership principles that have shaped his journey and the thinking behind the continued growth of Atmosphere Living and One Atmosphere.

Reflecting on the importance of long-term brand building, he said, “The principle that has stayed with me is that a brand is built through consistency, not just visibility.” He further highlighted the importance of trust, transparency and attention to detail in an industry where relationships extend far beyond transactions.

The conversation then moved towards one of the emerging areas in real estate and hospitality, leaseback investments. Sharing his perspective on the model, Sandeep explained, “Leaseback is becoming an interesting proposition by bringing together ownership and professionally managed hospitality.” He also outlined how the approach can create sustained value by bringing real estate and hospitality operations together.

The discussion takes an international turn with Arka Enclave Residences in Dubai, Atmosphere Living’s first project in the UAE. Sandeep described it as an important step in taking the brand’s understanding of branded and serviced living to one of the world’s dynamic markets.

But the vision does not stop there. Speaking about the changing expectations around accommodation, Sandeep noted, “The distinction between residential and hospitality is becoming increasingly fluid.” He sees growing relevance in formats that combine the privacy of a home with the convenience and flexibility of hospitality.

Looking ahead, the brands remain focused on expanding across serviced apartments, branded residences, leaseback-led hospitality and integrated real estate-hospitality formats, while keeping quality at the centre of growth. Our conversation with Sandeep Ahuja offered valuable perspectives on how living, hospitality and real estate are coming together to shape new experiences. Check out the complete interview in the Hospitality News October  Magazine on our website and explore the full conversation in the physical copy of the magazine.

India’s hospitality landscape is entering a phase of transformation, where evolving traveller expectations, technology, emerging destinations and operational resilience are reshaping the way brands approach growth. At the forefront of this conversation is Mohammed Parvez, CEO of Essentia Hotels & Resorts, whose leadership reflects a strong focus on quality, innovation and meaningful guest experiences.

In an exclusive interview with Hospitality News, Parvez shared his perspective on how his understanding of hospitality has evolved from operational excellence to creating memorable experiences and meaningful connections. “My understanding of the hospitality industry has grown from focusing mainly on service delivery and operational excellence to recognising its bigger purpose of creating memorable experiences and meaningful connections,” he says.

Looking at the wider industry, Parvez believes India’s hospitality sector is positioned for sustained growth, supported by rising domestic travel, improved infrastructure, increasing disposable incomes and growing demand for experiential stays. His insights also highlight how emerging destinations are creating opportunities beyond traditional tourism hubs.

But how are hospitality brands responding to the rapidly changing expectations of today’s travellers? At Essentia Hotels & Resorts, Parvez explains that the focus extends beyond accommodation, with business travellers seeking seamless, technology-driven solutions and leisure guests looking for authentic experiences, wellness and connections with local culture.

The conversation also explores some of the industry's pressing challenges. From rising fuel costs and market uncertainties to talent retention and changing guest expectations, Parvez discusses the importance of operational efficiency, smart cost management, sustainable practices and agility in building long-term resilience.

Technology emerges as another important part of this transformation. While digital tools are increasingly helping hotels streamline operations and personalise guest engagement, Parvez emphasises that technology must remain an enabler rather than a replacement for human connection.

And as Essentia Hotels & Resorts continues to grow, what does leadership mean in an increasingly competitive market? For Parvez, the answer comes down to three principles: people, purpose and sustainable value creation. Keeping guests at the centre while empowering teams, encouraging innovation and maintaining operational excellence remains central to his vision.

It was a great conversation with Mohammed Parvez, offering valuable perspectives on leadership, technology, growth and the evolving meaning of hospitality. Discover the complete interview with Mohammed Parvez in the September edition of Hospitality News, available on our website, and get your physical copy to explore the complete collection of stories shaping hospitality and beyond.