Designing the Future: Mitali Aharam on Women in Architecture and Hospitality Spaces

Designing the Future: Mitali Aharam on Women in Architecture and Hospitality Spaces

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 8, 2025

The hospitality industry thrives on aesthetics, functionality, and experience-driven spaces. Over the years, women have made a significant impact in architecture and interior design, bringing creativity and leadership into the field. Mitali Aharam, Principal Designer at Crafted Spaces, acknowledges this progress but also highlights the challenges women still face.

"While many women have established themselves as leaders, some clients still hesitate to entrust major projects to female architects, especially in architecture-heavy projects. Changing these perceptions takes time, but as we continue to push boundaries, we can redefine industry norms," she explains.

With the rise of boutique hotels, eco-resorts, and experience-centric stays, the need for thoughtful, sustainable design has never been more crucial. Women designers are playing a key role in shaping hospitality spaces that not only look stunning but also enhance guest comfort and sustainability.

Blending Tradition with Innovation in Hospitality Design

As hospitality trends shift toward sustainability and smart design, Crafted Spaces remains committed to blending tradition with technology. "We draw inspiration from our ancestors—who designed structures that were naturally sustainable and highly functional," says Mitali.

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One of the most exciting advancements in design today is the integration of AI. From 3D walkthroughs to predictive space planning, technology is enabling architects to create immersive and efficient hospitality spaces. "AI helps us streamline the design process and gives clients a clearer vision of the final outcome. It’s a game-changer in hospitality design," she adds.

The Future of Sustainable Hospitality Spaces

With global warming becoming a pressing concern, sustainability in hospitality design is no longer optional—it’s essential. The future lies in net-zero architecture, where hotels and resorts minimize environmental impact by using sustainable materials and smart design to reduce energy consumption.

"AI will play a crucial role in this transformation, helping architects optimize designs for energy efficiency and climate responsiveness," Mitali explains. By embracing these innovations, the hospitality industry can create spaces that are not just luxurious but also environmentally responsible.

A Message for Women in Hospitality and Design

On Women’s Day, Mitali shares a message of empowerment:

"To all the incredible women—may you continue to rise, lead, and inspire those around you. Your potential is limitless. At the end of the day, it’s your talent and hard work that define your success, not your gender."

As the hospitality industry evolves, the contributions of women in architecture and design will continue to shape extraordinary spaces, making them more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable for the future.


Conrad Pune Appoints Subhadeep Saha as Rooms Division Manager

Conrad Pune Appoints Subhadeep Saha as Rooms Division Manager

By Hariharan U

Published on April 27, 2026

Conrad Pune has announced the appointment of Subhadeep Saha as Rooms Division Manager, reinforcing its leadership team in operations and guest experience.

With over 12 years of experience across multiple properties within Hilton, Subhadeep brings deep expertise in guest services, team leadership, and operational excellence. In his most recent role, he managed front office and health club operations in a high-volume MICE environment, where he drove improvements in loyalty engagement, guest satisfaction scores, and online reputation rankings.

His career includes key roles at leading Hilton properties such as DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Bengaluru, Hilton Garden Inn Trivandrum, and Hilton Bangalore Embassy GolfLinks, building a strong foundation in operational standards and cross-functional leadership.

In his new role at Conrad Pune, Subhadeep will oversee Rooms Division along with Wellness and Leisure operations, focusing on strengthening day-to-day efficiencies and enhancing guest satisfaction. His responsibilities will span the hotel’s 351 rooms, dining outlets, meeting spaces, and lifestyle facilities, ensuring seamless and consistent service delivery.

Sharing his thoughts, Subhadeep expressed enthusiasm about joining the property, highlighting his focus on collaboration, empathy, and team-driven leadership to create meaningful guest and colleague experiences.

Commenting on the appointment, Abhishek Sahai, General Manager, Conrad Pune, noted that Subhadeep’s operational expertise and people-first approach will play a key role in further elevating the hotel’s service standards.

This appointment reflects Conrad Pune’s continued focus on strengthening leadership capabilities while delivering refined and consistent luxury hospitality experiences.


Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar Appoints Vikas Thakre as Assistant Manager – Reservations

Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar Appoints Vikas Thakre as Assistant Manager – Reservations

By Hariharan U

Published on April 27, 2026

Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar has announced the appointment of Vikas Ravi Thakre as Assistant Manager – Reservations, further strengthening its operational leadership.

With over six years of experience in the hospitality industry, Vikas brings a strong mix of reservations expertise, operational efficiency, and guest-focused service. In his new role, he will oversee the hotel’s reservations function, focusing on optimising booking channels, improving forecasting accuracy, and enhancing overall reservation performance.

Commenting on the appointment, Rahul Janve, General Manager, highlighted that Vikas’s understanding of reservation systems and ability to drive efficiency make him a valuable addition to the team.

Prior to joining the Mahabaleshwar property, Vikas was associated with Fairfield by Marriott Calangute, where he served as Assistant Manager – Reservations. During his tenure, he managed individual and group bookings, monitored room inventory, and collaborated closely with sales and front office teams. He also contributed to reservation reporting, booking trend analysis, and revenue optimisation strategies.

He began his journey at the same property as a Reservation Executive, where he played a key role in streamlining processes and improving operational efficiency. His earlier experience includes roles at The Fern Residency and Le Méridien Nagpur, where he developed a strong foundation in front office operations and guest relations.

Speaking on his new role, Vikas expressed enthusiasm about joining the team and contributing to seamless reservation experiences while maintaining high service standards.

Recognised for his consistent performance, he has received multiple accolades, including Employee of the Month and Associate of the Month awards. With proficiency in systems such as Opera, Marsha, and HPP, along with a strong analytical approach, he is well-positioned to further enhance the hotel’s reservations operations.


Foodlink Global Appoints Jayved Kumar as Head Chef in Dubai

Foodlink Global Appoints Jayved Kumar as Head Chef in Dubai

By Hariharan U

Published on April 27, 2026

Foodlink Global has announced the appointment of Jayved Kumar as Head Chef, reinforcing its culinary leadership in the Middle East region.

With over 15 years of experience, Chef Jayved brings a strong foundation in modern Indian cuisine, kitchen operations, and team leadership. Known for his ability to blend traditional flavours with contemporary techniques, he has built a reputation for delivering consistent quality across large-scale operations.

Prior to this role, he served as Unit Chef at PINCODE Restaurant by Chef Kunal Kapur, where he played a key role in menu innovation and guest satisfaction. His professional journey also includes tenures with Azure Hospitality Pvt. Ltd. and Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels, where he gained extensive experience in menu development, vendor management, and operational efficiency.

In his new role at Foodlink Global, Chef Jayved will oversee kitchen operations across Dubai, focusing on menu innovation, maintaining global hygiene and safety standards, and enhancing overall dining experiences. His expertise spans curry and tandoor specialities, fusion cuisine, and large-scale kitchen administration, supported by strong knowledge of HACCP compliance and quality audits.

Speaking on his appointment, Chef Jayved expressed enthusiasm about joining the brand, highlighting his intent to create innovative dining experiences that combine traditional Indian flavours with modern presentation and techniques.

This strategic appointment underscores Foodlink Global’s commitment to strengthening its culinary excellence and expanding its presence in the competitive Middle East hospitality landscape.

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