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.


Summit Hotels and Resorts Elevates Anjila Yonzon as Group General Manager – Sales

Summit Hotels and Resorts Elevates Anjila Yonzon as Group General Manager – Sales

By Hariharan U

Published on December 5, 2025

Summit Hotels and Resorts has announced the appointment of Anjila Yonzon as the Group General Manager – Sales, marking a proud moment for the brand and a milestone in Anjila’s 12-year journey with the group.

Anjila began her career with Summit in the reservations department, quickly making an impact with her communication skills, guest-first thinking, and strong industry relationships. Over the years, she has played an important role in expanding Summit’s sales reach across markets, driving partnerships, and strengthening the brand’s business presence.

In her new leadership role, Anjila will guide the group’s overall sales strategy, leading key accounts, partnerships, and growth initiatives across Summit’s expanding portfolio. Her deep understanding of market trends and customer needs is expected to further boost Summit’s presence in both leisure and business travel segments.

Known for her collaborative style and strategic mindset, Anjila continues to inspire her teams with her focus on excellence and people-first leadership. Her journey reflects Summit’s culture of recognising talent from within and growing future leaders.

Sharing her thoughts on the appointment, Anjila Yonzon said, “It has been a truly rewarding journey with Summit Hotels and Resorts, and I am deeply honored to step into this new role. Over the years, I've witnessed the brand's incredible growth and the strength of our people-driven culture. As we move forward, my focus will be on deepening relationships, expanding our market presence, and driving sales performance with renewed energy and purpose.”

Adding to this, Sumit Mitruka, Founder & CEO, Summit Hotels and Resorts, said, “Anjila's leadership, dedication, and deep understanding of the market make her a vital part of our leadership team. Her growth within the organization truly reflects the spirit of Summit. We are confident that her strategic insight and relationship-driven approach will further enhance our sales performance and strengthen the brand's presence across key markets.”

Summit Hotels and Resorts congratulates Anjila on this well-deserved elevation and looks forward to her continued leadership in strengthening the group’s sales vision.


Welcomhotel Guntur Welcomes Ravi Kant Sharma as Its New Food and Beverage Manager

Welcomhotel Guntur Welcomes Ravi Kant Sharma as Its New Food and Beverage Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 4, 2025

Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Guntur has announced the appointment of Ravi Kant Sharma as its Food and Beverage Manager. Known for his hands-on leadership and experience in luxury hospitality, he brings nearly nine years of expertise shaped across renowned hotel brands including The Oberoi Group and ITC Hotels.

Before taking on this new role, he served as Assistant Food and Beverage Manager at ITC Mughal, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Agra, where he handled a wide range of operational responsibilities, worked closely with the leadership team to strengthen service standards and departmental performance, and contributed to enhancing guest-focused F&B operations.

With his strong skill set, industry knowledge, and commitment to delivering exceptional service, he is set to enhance the dining experience at Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Guntur and continue the brand’s focus on thoughtful hospitality.


The LaLiT Laxmi Vilas Palace Udaipur Appoints Arjun Belliappa as General Manager

The LaLiT Laxmi Vilas Palace Udaipur Appoints Arjun Belliappa as General Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 3, 2025

The LaLiT Laxmi Vilas Palace Udaipur has announced the appointment of Mr. Arjun Belliappa as its new General Manager. With more than two decades of diverse hospitality experience, he is known for elevating guest satisfaction, improving operational efficiency, and driving strong business growth.

Mr. Belliappa began his career as a Hotel Operational Management Trainee with JW Marriott, Juhu, and later worked at The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower, Mumbai. His career grew further during his seven-year journey with The Oberoi Group, where he contributed to operations at The Oberoi Mumbai, Trident Nariman Point, and Trident Gurgaon, eventually becoming Assistant Front Office Manager.

Over the years, he has held senior leadership roles with Park Hyatt Hyderabad, Radisson Blu Atria Bengaluru, Mantri Square Mall, Lemon Tree Premier, Sunbird Trust, and Betta Living Resorts. These roles have given him valuable experience across luxury hotels, large-scale operations, and mission-driven hospitality projects.

Most recently, Mr. Belliappa served as General Manager at Hotel Lakend, Udaipur. His strong understanding of the local market helped him enhance service quality and overall business performance.

Sharing his thoughts on the new role, Mr. Arjun Belliappa said, “It is an honour to join The LaLiT Laxmi Vilas Palace Udaipur, a landmark property that captures the splendour of Rajasthan and a bygone era. I look forward to working with the team to create memorable guest experiences that uphold the brand’s legacy of warmth, luxury, and inclusion.”

Welcoming him to the group, Mr. Vivek Shukla, CEO, The LaLiT Suri Hospitality Group, said, “We are delighted to have Mr. Arjun Belliappa join The LaLiT family. His leadership, expertise, and dedication to excellence will further strengthen our commitment to offering unparalleled guest experiences at The LaLiT Laxmi Vilas Palace Udaipur.”

With this appointment, The LaLiT Laxmi Vilas Palace Udaipur continues its commitment to delivering refined hospitality rooted in heritage, warmth, and exceptional service.

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