Exclusive: Alisha Chitalwala on Crafting Luxury & Inclusivity in Hospitality Design

Exclusive: Alisha Chitalwala on Crafting Luxury & Inclusivity in Hospitality Design

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 8, 2025

Great hospitality design goes beyond aesthetics—it creates experiences that stay with guests long after they’ve left. For Alisha Chitalwala, Associate Designer at Designers Group, the focus is on crafting spaces that seamlessly blend comfort, functionality, and brand identity.

“My role revolves around ensuring each project exudes a distinct character, setting the property apart with its unique charm,” she shares. From conceptualization to execution, every detail is carefully curated to enhance the guest experience, making hospitality spaces more than just places to stay—they become destinations in themselves.

A Commitment to Sustainable Luxury

Sustainability is no longer an option; it’s a necessity. Designers Group has been at the forefront of integrating eco-conscious practices into hospitality design without compromising on luxury. “We believe in delivering luxury through a thoughtful, sustainable approach,” Alisha explains. “By prioritizing environmentally conscious practices, we contribute meaningfully to the evolution of the design industry.”

With travelers increasingly valuing responsible tourism, hotels and resorts are now looking at design as a way to minimize their environmental footprint while maintaining high-end appeal. This shift is shaping the next generation of hospitality spaces—ones that are both indulgent and environmentally responsible.

Innovation & The Role of AI in Hospitality Design

Technology is revolutionizing the way designers conceptualize and execute spaces, and AI is leading the charge. “The future of design is being reshaped by AI-driven solutions, offering boundless opportunities to push creative boundaries,” Alisha shares.

From AI-assisted space planning to immersive 3D visualizations, technology is making it easier to create more precise, functional, and engaging hospitality interiors. This not only enhances efficiency but also allows for greater customization, ensuring every space meets the evolving expectations of modern travelers.

Fostering Inclusivity & Women in Design

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The design industry has long been a space where creativity thrives, and at Designers Group, gender is never a barrier to success. “Creativity knows no gender,” Alisha states. “We champion equal opportunities and take immense pride in having a significant number of female professionals who bring innovation, passion, and excellence to every project.”

As more women step into leadership roles, the industry is witnessing a positive shift towards inclusivity and representation. By fostering talent without bias, hospitality design continues to evolve as a field where fresh perspectives and diverse voices shape the future.

A Vision for the Future

The hospitality industry is embracing change, with sustainability, adaptive reuse, and immersive experiences leading the way. Looking ahead, Alisha envisions smart, responsive spaces that elevate guest interactions while prioritizing eco-conscious luxury. “Opportunities lie in redefining hospitality through a forward-thinking approach,” she says.

As hospitality design continues to evolve, one thing remains clear: innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity will be at the heart of the industry’s transformation.

A Message for Women’s Day

On International Women’s Day, Alisha shares an empowering message:
“We are empowered women shaping the world, and our strength multiplies when we uplift and support one another. Together, we create, inspire, and lead with unwavering confidence.”

A fitting reminder that when women support each other, the industry—and the world—flourishes.


Ramee Group of Hotels Appoints Jacob Mojes Balla as General Manager – Sales

Ramee Group of Hotels Appoints Jacob Mojes Balla as General Manager – Sales

By Hariharan U

Published on August 24, 2026

Ramee Group of Hotels has appointed Jacob Mojes Balla as General Manager – Sales, strengthening its commercial leadership as the group focuses on revenue growth, market expansion and the development of its growing hotel portfolio.

With over 16 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Jacob brings expertise across sales strategy, key account management and revenue generation. In his new role, he will lead the commercial sales strategy for Ramee Group's new, existing and upcoming properties.

Jacob has previously held senior sales positions with established hospitality and real estate brands. His professional experience spans hotels, restaurants and outdoor catering, giving him a broad understanding of customer requirements and diverse business segments.

His experience across different hospitality formats is expected to support Ramee Group's efforts to strengthen market relationships, expand its commercial reach and drive business growth across its portfolio.

As General Manager – Sales, Jacob will focus on developing sales strategies, strengthening key accounts and identifying opportunities to improve revenue performance across the group's properties.

The appointment comes as Ramee Group continues to expand its presence, with a focus on building a stronger commercial foundation across its existing and upcoming properties.


Eco Hotels & Resorts Appoints Mahek B. Patel as Head of Operations

Eco Hotels & Resorts Appoints Mahek B. Patel as Head of Operations

By Hariharan U

Published on August 24, 2026

Eco Hotels & Resorts Limited has appointed Mahek B. Patel as Head of Operations, strengthening its leadership team as the company continues to expand its hospitality portfolio and scale operations across properties.

Mahek brings extensive experience in hotel operations, having worked with established hospitality brands including Bloom Hotel, Lemon Tree Premier, and The Resort Hotel. His professional experience spans property operations, SOP implementation, guest experience management, team leadership, quality control and cost optimisation.

In his new role, Mahek will focus on strengthening operational consistency and service standards across Eco Hotels & Resorts' properties. His responsibilities will include working closely with property teams and department heads to implement and monitor SOPs, enhance guest experiences, improve operational efficiencies and develop hospitality teams.

He will also contribute to effective budget management and cost optimisation across the portfolio, supporting the company's efforts to build a more consistent and efficient operational framework as it grows.

Commenting on the appointment, Mr. Vinod K. Tripathi, Executive Chairman, Eco Hotels & Resorts Limited, said, “We are pleased to welcome Mahek B. Patel to Eco Hotels & Resorts. As we continue to expand our presence and scale our portfolio, strong leadership across our properties will be critical to maintaining consistency and delivering an exceptional guest experience.”

He added that Mahek's experience in hotel operations and understanding of service delivery would contribute to strengthening the company's operational framework and supporting its next phase of growth.

Speaking on his appointment, Mahek B. Patel, Head of Operations, Eco Hotels & Resorts Limited, said, “I am delighted to join Eco Hotels & Resorts at an exciting stage of its growth journey. The opportunity to contribute to the company's expanding portfolio and strengthen Operations standards across properties is both challenging and rewarding.”

He added that his focus would be on building efficient processes, delivering consistent guest experiences and creating a strong operational foundation to support the company's long-term growth.

Mahek's appointment comes as Eco Hotels & Resorts continues to strengthen its portfolio and operational capabilities. With a focus on service quality, team development and efficient resource management, his leadership is expected to support the company's efforts to deliver consistent hospitality experiences across its expanding presence.


The Ritz-Carlton, Pune Appoints Dirham Haque as Director of Culinary

The Ritz-Carlton, Pune Appoints Dirham Haque as Director of Culinary

By Hariharan U

Published on August 22, 2026

The Ritz-Carlton, Pune has appointed Dirham Haque as Director of Culinary, strengthening its culinary leadership team with a hospitality professional who brings more than 15 years of experience across India and the Middle East.

Haque has built his career across leading luxury hospitality brands including ITC Hotels, The Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, and JW Marriott. His experience spans luxury hotels, specialty restaurants, banqueting operations and pre-opening projects, with a focus on culinary innovation and operational excellence.

Prior to joining The Ritz-Carlton, Pune, Haque served as Director of Culinary at JW Marriott Hotel Kolkata, where he oversaw seven restaurants and bars as well as extensive banqueting operations.

Earlier in his career, he was part of the pre-opening team at Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru at Embassy ONE, contributing to the launch of six restaurants and bars before taking on the role of Executive Chef.

Haque began his culinary journey at ITC Maurya, New Delhi, where he was part of the acclaimed Dum Pukht team. His professional experience also includes pre-opening responsibilities at ITC Grand Chola, Chennai, leadership roles at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray in Dubai, and exposure at Al Mahara at Burj Al Arab.

During his tenure with The Oberoi Hotels & Resorts in Gurgaon and Dubai, Haque played a key role in the operations of Ananta at The Oberoi, Dubai, which earned three Black Hats, a prestigious regional culinary accolade.

In his new role at The Ritz-Carlton, Pune, Haque will oversee the hotel's culinary operations while focusing on strengthening its dining experiences, culinary innovation and gastronomic offerings.

Speaking about his appointment, Dirham Haque said, “Joining The Ritz-Carlton, Pune is an exciting milestone. I look forward to working with the excellent team here to curate memorable dining experiences, win more accolades and uphold the brand’s iconic gold standards of service.”

His appointment comes as The Ritz-Carlton, Pune continues to strengthen its position as a luxury hospitality destination in the city. Haque's experience across Indian and international luxury hospitality, specialty dining and large-scale culinary operations is expected to further support the hotel's focus on distinctive dining experiences.

With experience spanning multiple luxury brands and diverse culinary environments, Haque brings a combination of operational expertise, international exposure and culinary leadership to his new position at The Ritz-Carlton, Pune.

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