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.


Holiday Inn Express Promotes Faisal Khan as Hotel Manager at Nashik Indira Nagar

Holiday Inn Express Promotes Faisal Khan as Hotel Manager at Nashik Indira Nagar

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 26, 2025

Holiday Inn Express has announced the promotion of Faisal Khan to the position of Hotel Manager at Holiday Inn Express Nashik Indira Nagar, effective August 2025. Faisal has been a dedicated part of the Holiday Inn Express family since 2018, consistently demonstrating leadership, commitment, and a strong understanding of hotel operations throughout his journey with the brand.

In his previous role as Front Office Manager at Holiday Inn Express Bengaluru Yeshwantpur, Faisal played a key role in improving guest satisfaction, strengthening team performance, and maintaining the brand’s service standards. With more than 14 years of hospitality experience, he brings deep knowledge of guest engagement, operations management, and team development. His leadership contributed to several achievements, including the TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Award (2023) and Best Department of the Year (2024).

In his new role, Faisal will lead the overall operations at Holiday Inn Express Nashik Indira Nagar, ensuring smooth guest experiences while aligning with IHG’s global commitment to quality, safety, and service excellence.

Sharing his thoughts on the promotion, Faisal Khan, Hotel Manager, Holiday Inn Express Nashik Indira Nagar said, “It has been an incredible journey with Holiday Inn Express over the past few years. The brand’s culture of growth and excellence has continually inspired me to deliver my best every day. I am grateful for this new opportunity and look forward to leading the team at Holiday Inn Express Nashik Indira Nagar to further strengthen guest satisfaction and operational excellence.”

This promotion reflects Holiday Inn Express’s commitment to recognising and nurturing talent within the organisation. It also highlights IHG’s ‘Room to Grow’ philosophy, which focuses on continuous learning, leadership development, and internal mobility. Faisal’s career journey stands as a strong example of how dedication and consistent performance are supported and rewarded with meaningful growth opportunities.


Chef Ashish Tiwari Leads ROOH San Francisco to Michelin Guide Recognition

Chef Ashish Tiwari Leads ROOH San Francisco to Michelin Guide Recognition

By Hariharan U

Published on November 25, 2025

ROOH San Francisco, the well-known progressive Indian restaurant in the Bay Area, is celebrating the work of its Executive Chef, Ashish Tiwari, whose culinary leadership has played a major role in the restaurant being featured in the Michelin Guide.

Chef Ashish leads the kitchen with a strong focus on technique, regional authenticity, and fresh, creative flavour ideas. His direction has helped ROOH San Francisco maintain its spot as one of the region’s most refined and modern Indian dining spaces.

The Michelin Guide recognition reflects his strength in building flavours, curating ingredients, and presenting dishes in a contemporary, global style, while still staying true to the soul of Indian cooking. Through his approach, diners get to experience Indian cuisine in a polished and elevated manner.

"Chef Ashish currently helms ROOH San Francisco, a restaurant recognized by the Michelin Guide for its excellence," the restaurant announced. "This recognition reflects his ability to maintain world-class standards in flavor architecture, technique, ingredient curation, and guest experience. His leadership and innovations have been instrumental in positioning modern Indian cuisine among the Bay Area's most respected fine-dining offerings."

Sharing his thoughts on the achievement, Chef Ashish Tiwari said, "Being Michelin Guide–recommended is more than an award, it demonstrates that the culinary direction I provide at ROOH San Francisco meets the highest international benchmarks. Through this platform, I am actively shaping the global perception of Indian cuisine by presenting refined techniques, regional authenticity, and modern Californian ingredient integrations."

His work at ROOH focuses on balancing innovation with the emotional depth and cultural richness of Indian food. Each menu is designed to showcase India’s regional diversity in a fresh, season-driven format that fits naturally into the Californian dining landscape.

With Chef Ashish continuing to lead the kitchen, ROOH San Francisco remains committed to shaping the next chapter of contemporary Indian cuisine and maintaining its strong position in one of America’s most competitive food scenes.


Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa Appoints Mallika Chugh as Assistant Director of Marcom

Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa Appoints Mallika Chugh as Assistant Director of Marcom

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 24, 2025

Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa has announced the appointment of Mallika Chugh as its assistant director of marketing & communications, adding depth to its leadership team as the resort continues to grow its presence among Rajasthan’s most charming luxury destinations. Known for her creative outlook and precise understanding of hospitality branding, Chugh brings strong experience across marketing strategy, communications and brand development.

Over the years, she has worked with leading luxury hotel brands, building a solid record in boosting visibility, launching impactful campaigns and crafting meaningful brand stories that connect with travellers. Her strength lies in blending storytelling with commercial strategy, ensuring every initiative carries both emotion and purpose.

Before joining Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa, Chugh worked with well-known hospitality brands where she handled marketing, PR and digital responsibilities across multiple properties. In her most recent role, she managed cluster marketing communications, successfully repositioning properties, creating destination-led campaigns and strengthening engagement across domestic and global markets.

In her new position at the resort, Chugh will lead all aspects of marketing and communications, including brand strategy, content creation, media relations, digital storytelling and partnerships. Her focus will be on shaping a strong brand identity that highlights the resort’s stunning architecture, desert setting and cultural charm, while positioning it as a must-visit luxury destination for travellers from India and around the world.

“We are thrilled to welcome Mallika Chugh to the Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa family. Her deep understanding of marketing, communications, and brand development, combined with her creative vision and strategic acumen, makes her a valuable addition to our leadership team. We look forward to the fresh perspectives and compelling narratives she will bring as we continue to elevate our brand and guest experience,” said Nikhil Kher, general manager at the hotel.

Speaking about her appointment, Chugh said, “Joining Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa is both a privilege and an exciting challenge. The property is a masterpiece that captures the essence of Rajasthan, its heritage, artistry, and warmth. My vision is to build a brand narrative that reflects this richness while positioning the resort as a global icon of luxury rooted in authenticity. I look forward to collaborating with a team that shares this passion for storytelling and excellence.”

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