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.


The Serai Resorts, Bandipur Appoints Siddharth Manjeshwar as Resort Manager

The Serai Resorts, Bandipur Appoints Siddharth Manjeshwar as Resort Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 7, 2026

The Serai Resorts, Bandipur has announced the appointment of Siddharth Manjeshwar as its new Resort Manager, further strengthening the leadership team at the award-winning luxury wildlife retreat located on the edge of Bandipur National Park.

Siddharth brings extensive international hospitality experience, having worked across luxury hotels, resorts, and restaurants in India, Thailand, Japan, the UAE, and the Maldives. Over the years, he has held leadership roles with leading hospitality brands including IHCL, Alila Hotels & Resorts, Sterling Holidays, Club Med, and Lily Beach Resort & Spa.

His expertise spans resort operations, food and beverage management, guest experience, and team leadership. Throughout his career, he has built a strong reputation for driving operational excellence, improving guest satisfaction, and leading high-performing teams.

Siddharth holds a Master's degree in Business with a specialisation in Hospitality Management, combining strong business knowledge with hands-on operational experience in the hospitality sector.

Welcoming him to the team, Saibal Sen, Chief Operating Officer, The Serai Resorts, said:

"With Siddharth joining the leadership team, he will play an important role in the next chapter for The Serai Bandipur. His proven track record in luxury hospitality, passion for service excellence, and deep understanding of resort operations align perfectly with our vision of crafting meaningful, destination-led experiences for the unhurried explorer. We are excited to have him on board and look forward to his leadership in further elevating the thoughtful experiences, and authentic connections that define The Serai Resorts."

As Resort Manager, Siddharth will oversee the overall operations of The Serai Resorts, Bandipur, with a focus on delivering seamless guest experiences, strengthening service standards, improving operational efficiency, and developing the resort's team. He will also work closely with the leadership team to further position the property as one of India's leading luxury wildlife destinations.

Sharing his thoughts on the appointment, Siddharth Manjeshwar said:

"I am delighted to join The Serai Resorts, Bandipur, a destination that beautifully blends nature, thoughtful experiences, and gracious hospitality. Having worked across diverse hospitality markets and brands, I look forward to collaborating with the team to create meaningful guest journeys, strengthen our culture of service excellence, and deliver the immersive, destination-led experiences that make every stay at The Serai Resorts truly memorable.”

With Siddharth's appointment, The Serai Resorts, Bandipur continues its focus on delivering authentic, immersive, and guest-centric experiences while strengthening its position in India's luxury wildlife hospitality segment.


Courtyard by Marriott Ghaziabad Appoints Praveen Sharma as Hotel Manager

Courtyard by Marriott Ghaziabad Appoints Praveen Sharma as Hotel Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 7, 2026

Courtyard by Marriott Ghaziabad has announced the appointment of Praveen Sharma as its new Hotel Manager, further strengthening the hotel's leadership team.

With over 26 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Praveen brings extensive expertise across hotel operations, sales, business development, strategic planning, and commercial growth. Throughout his career, he has built a strong track record of driving operational excellence, improving business performance, and developing high-performing teams.

Praveen holds a Ph.D. in Tourism from Himachal Pradesh University and a Certification in General Management from IIM Lucknow. Before joining Courtyard by Marriott Ghaziabad, he spent several years with Marriott International, where he held various leadership and pre-opening roles across multiple properties.

In his new role, Praveen will oversee the hotel's strategic and operational functions, with a focus on enhancing guest experiences, strengthening the hotel's market presence, building a people-first culture, and driving sustainable business growth.

Welcoming him to the hotel, Kiran Andicot, Senior Vice President, Development & Operations - South Asia, Marriott International, said:

“We are delighted to welcome Praveen to Courtyard by Marriott Ghaziabad. His extensive industry experience, proven leadership capabilities, and strong track record of building successful teams make him exceptionally well positioned to lead the hotel. We are confident that his vision, passion for hospitality, and commitment to excellence will play a pivotal role in strengthening the hotel’s presence in the market and creating memorable experiences for guests and associates alike.”

Recognised for his collaborative leadership style, Praveen has consistently focused on building strong relationships with guests, owners, associates, and business partners while delivering long-term business success.

Sharing his thoughts on the appointment, Praveen Sharma said:

“I am honored to be part of the team at Courtyard by Marriott Ghaziabad. This hotel represents an exciting opportunity to create exceptional guest experiences while building a strong culture rooted in Marriott’s values. I look forward to working alongside our talented associates, ownership team, and stakeholders to establish the hotel as a preferred destination for business travelers, social celebrations, and memorable hospitality experiences in the region.”

Outside his professional responsibilities, Praveen enjoys travelling, reading, and spending time with his family.


Rajnish Sharma Joins ITC Hotels as Food & Beverage Manager for Welcomhotel Mohali Chandigarh Pre-Opening

Rajnish Sharma Joins ITC Hotels as Food & Beverage Manager for Welcomhotel Mohali Chandigarh Pre-Opening

By Hariharan U

Published on August 7, 2026

Rajnish Sharma Joins ITC Hotels as Food and beverage Manger for WelcomHotel Mohali Chandigarh Pre Opening

Mohali Chandigarh: Hospitality professional Rajnish Sharma has announced his new role as Food & Beverage Manager for the pre-opening of Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Mohali Chandigarh.

This appointment marks Rajnish Sharma’s second role as a Food & Beverage Manager, reflecting his continued growth, dedication, and passion for the hospitality industry.

Sharing his excitement about the new journey, Rajnish expressed that being associated with ITC Hotels is a privilege, given the brand’s legacy of excellence, commitment to quality, and focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences.

As part of the pre-opening team, Rajnish will contribute towards establishing food and beverage operations, creating memorable dining experiences, and supporting the hotel’s vision of delivering service excellence.

Looking ahead, he aims to collaborate with the team, embrace new opportunities, and contribute towards setting new benchmarks in hospitality.

Rajnish also expressed his gratitude to everyone who has supported and believed in him throughout his professional journey, acknowledging their role in helping him achieve this milestone.

The hospitality industry congratulates Rajnish Sharma on this new chapter and wishes him success in his upcoming role with Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Mohali Chandigarh.

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