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.


Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal Appoints Raghuvir G Gurjale as Director of Sales

Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal Appoints Raghuvir G Gurjale as Director of Sales

By Hariharan U

Published on June 18, 2026

Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal has announced the appointment of Raghuvir G Gurjale as its new Director of Sales, marking a strategic leadership addition as the hotel continues to strengthen its commercial presence in Bengaluru’s competitive hospitality market.

With over 23 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Gurjale brings deep expertise in sales leadership, business development, customer relationship management, and hotel operations. In his new role, he will be responsible for shaping the hotel’s commercial strategy, enhancing brand visibility, and leading the sales and marketing team to drive sustained business growth.

Prior to this appointment, he served as Multi Property Director of Sales for Courtyard by Marriott Trichy and Madurai, where he played a key role in revenue acceleration and strategic account development. Over the course of his career, he has held leadership roles across several prominent hospitality brands, building strong market relationships and delivering consistent performance across key business segments.

His professional journey includes stints with leading hotels such as Four Points by Sheraton Convention Hotel & Resort – Mahabalipuram, Accord Metropolitan Chennai, The Raintree Annasalai, Hilton Chennai, Radisson Blu Hotel Chennai City Centre, The Park Chennai, and The Oberoi Group, reflecting a strong foundation across luxury, upscale, and business hotel segments.

Known for his result-oriented approach and relationship-driven leadership style, Gurjale has consistently focused on building high-performing teams, managing key corporate accounts, and executing effective revenue strategies. His appointment is expected to further strengthen Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal’s position as a preferred destination for business, events, and hospitality experiences in the city.

Commenting on the appointment, Kadambari Sabharwal Talwar, General Manager of the hotel, said that Gurjale’s extensive industry experience, strategic vision, and leadership capabilities will contribute significantly to the hotel’s continued growth and market success.

The appointment also reinforces the continued leadership presence of Marriott International in India’s hospitality sector, as its portfolio of brands continues to expand and evolve across key urban markets.


DoubleTree by Hilton Gurugram Baani Square Appoints Abhay Nath Thakur as Executive Housekeeper

DoubleTree by Hilton Gurugram Baani Square Appoints Abhay Nath Thakur as Executive Housekeeper

By Hariharan U

Published on June 18, 2026

DoubleTree by Hilton Gurugram Baani Square has announced the appointment of Abhay Nath Thakur as its new Executive Housekeeper, strengthening the hotel’s leadership team in housekeeping operations and guest service excellence.

In his new role, Abhay will be responsible for overseeing housekeeping operations, maintaining high standards of cleanliness and hygiene, enhancing guest comfort, and ensuring smooth operational performance aligned with Hilton’s global service standards. He will also focus on improving internal processes, strengthening quality benchmarks, and elevating overall guest satisfaction.

Abhay brings over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry, having worked with leading international hotel brands across India. Prior to this appointment, he served as Assistant Executive Housekeeper at Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel. His career also includes roles across multiple Marriott International properties such as JW Marriott Bengaluru, Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield, Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal, Fairfield by Marriott Goa Anjuna, Fairfield by Marriott Chennai, Courtyard by Marriott Siliguri, and Fairfield by Marriott Jodhpur.

His expertise spans housekeeping operations, budgeting and forecasting, quality assurance, laundry management, team development, and guest experience enhancement. Known for his detail-oriented approach and collaborative leadership style, Abhay has consistently led high-performing teams across luxury and upscale hospitality segments.

Speaking on the appointment, Nitin Pathak, General Manager, DoubleTree by Hilton Gurugram Baani Square, said the hotel is pleased to welcome Abhay and highlighted his operational expertise and leadership capabilities as key strengths that will further enhance guest experience standards.

Expressing his enthusiasm, Abhay Nath Thakur said he looks forward to contributing to the brand’s guest-centric philosophy and working closely with the team to maintain high service standards and operational excellence.


Fairfield by Marriott Jaipur Appoints Varun Pandey as Hotel Manager

Fairfield by Marriott Jaipur Appoints Varun Pandey as Hotel Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 18, 2026

Fairfield by Marriott Jaipur has announced the appointment of Varun Pandey as Hotel Manager. Bringing more than 17 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Varun joins the hotel with a strong background in hotel operations, sales and marketing, revenue management, and guest experience.

In his new role, he will focus on strengthening operational efficiency, enhancing guest satisfaction, and supporting the continued growth of the hotel. He will also work towards fostering a culture centred on collaboration, performance, and people-first hospitality.

Varun began his hospitality journey with The Imperial Hotel, New Delhi, in Food & Beverage Service before moving into Sales & Marketing with IHG. Over the years, he has built extensive experience across leading hospitality brands, including IHG, Accor, Starwood, Marriott International, and Radisson Hotel Group.

Throughout his career, he has gained valuable exposure across both upscale and business hospitality segments, contributing to commercial growth, operational performance, and guest engagement initiatives.

Prior to joining Fairfield by Marriott Jaipur, Varun served as Director of Sales & Marketing at Radisson Blu Plaza Delhi. In this role, he played an important part in driving business growth, strengthening the hotel's market presence, and developing strong client relationships.

An alumnus of IHM Hyderabad, Varun also holds a postgraduate MBA from Arunachal University. Beyond his professional commitments, he enjoys road trips and discovering new destinations, reflecting his passion for travel, experiences, and meaningful connections.

With his diverse industry experience and leadership expertise, Fairfield by Marriott Jaipur looks forward to further enhancing its guest experience and strengthening its position in Jaipur's hospitality landscape under his guidance.

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