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.


Grand Hyatt Mumbai Appoints Prasad Prabhu as Learning and Development Manager to Strengthen People-First Culture

Grand Hyatt Mumbai Appoints Prasad Prabhu as Learning and Development Manager to Strengthen People-First Culture

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 11, 2025

Grand Hyatt Mumbai, one of India’s most iconic luxury hotels, has announced the appointment of Prasad Prabhu as Learning and Development Manager.

With over 18 years of experience across leading global hospitality brands, Prasad brings a strong background in talent development, leadership capability building, service culture enhancement, and colleague engagement. His appointment highlights Grand Hyatt Mumbai’s focus on nurturing a people-first culture built on care, continuous learning, and professional growth.

In his new role, Prasad will spearhead the hotel’s learning and development strategy, focusing on leadership development, embedding Hyatt’s values through a culture of learning, enhancing colleague engagement, and aligning training initiatives with business goals.

An alumnus of the Welingkar Institute of Management, Mumbai (PGDBA in General Management), Institute of Hotel Management, Goa (B.Sc. in Hospitality & Hotel Administration), and Institute of Hotel Management, Mumbai (Food Production Craft Course), Prasad has built an impressive career with prestigious hospitality brands such as The Indian Hotels Company Limited (Taj Hotels), InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), The Leela Kempinski, The Zuri Hospitality Group, and Hyatt Hotels Corporation.

Before joining Grand Hyatt Mumbai, Prasad served as Learning Manager at Grand Hyatt Goa, where he played a dual role, leading property-level learning initiatives and contributing as an ASPAC Master Trainer for Hyatt Hotels Corporation. In this capacity, he designed and facilitated impactful leadership and trainer capability workshops across the Asia Pacific region.

Speaking on his appointment, Prasad Prabhu said,

“I am delighted to join Grand Hyatt Mumbai and continue my Hyatt journey. I believe that when colleagues feel respected, supported, and motivated to grow, they naturally deliver better guest experiences. My vision is to build a workplace where learning is not just a function, but a culture.”

As one of Hyatt’s flagship hotels in India, Grand Hyatt Mumbai continues to strengthen its reputation for excellence in service and colleague care. With Prasad’s leadership, the hotel aims to further its vision of fostering empowered teams and delivering exceptional guest experiences through a culture of continuous learning and growth.


The Machan Lonavala Appoints Vikas Toksya as Resident Manager

The Machan Lonavala Appoints Vikas Toksya as Resident Manager

By Hariharan U

Published on November 8, 2025

The Machan Lonavala, one of India’s most recognised eco-luxury resort brands, has announced the appointment of Vikas Toksya as its new Resident Manager.

With an impressive 19-year career in the hospitality industry, Vikas brings a wealth of operational and leadership experience from his time with prestigious names such as the Cyrus Poonawalla Group, Radisson Blu, and Hyatt Hotels. His expertise spans operations management, guest experience, and team leadership, making him well-suited to drive The Machan’s next chapter of growth.

In his new role, Vikas will oversee the resort’s day-to-day operations, focusing on enhancing guest satisfaction and reinforcing The Machan’s core values of sustainability and experiential hospitality.

We are delighted to welcome Vikas to The Machan family. His rich operational background and deep understanding of luxury hospitality will play a pivotal role in driving our next phase of growth,” said Rakshit Sharma, COO, The Machan.

Renowned for its award-winning tree-house accommodations and commitment to eco-sensitive practices, The Machan continues to redefine responsible tourism — offering guests a truly immersive retreat amidst nature


Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Guntur Announces the Promotion of Mr. Arvind Mishra as Executive Housekeeper

Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Guntur Announces the Promotion of Mr. Arvind Mishra as Executive Housekeeper

By Hariharan U

Published on November 7, 2025

Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Guntur, is pleased to announce the promotion of Mr. Arvind Mishra as Executive Housekeeper. With a proven track record of excellence and over a decade of experience in hospitality operations, Mr. Mishra has been instrumental in maintaining the hotel’s high standards of cleanliness, guest comfort, and sustainability. In his new role.

he will continue to lead the housekeeping team with a focus on service innovation, efficiency, and guest satisfaction, further strengthening Welcomhotel Guntur’s commitment to delivering world-class hospitality and ensuring an impeccable stay experience for every guest

About Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Guntur

Nestled in the heart of Andhra Pradesh, Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Guntur blends modern luxury with the region’s rich cultural heritage. Designed for both business and leisure travelers, the hotel features contemporary accommodations, diverse dining experiences, and signature warm hospitality. With sustainable practices at its core, Welcomhotel Guntur embodies ITC Hotels’ “Responsible Luxury” philosophy, offering guests an experience that is both refined and environmentally conscious.

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