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.


Suba Hotels Limited Appoints Hakimuddin Kanorwala as Chief Finance Officer

Suba Hotels Limited Appoints Hakimuddin Kanorwala as Chief Finance Officer

By Hariharan U

Published on April 16, 2026

Suba Hotels Limited has announced the appointment of Hakimuddin Kanorwala as its Chief Finance Officer (CFO), strengthening its financial leadership team.

A qualified Chartered Accountant and an alumnus of Indian Institute of Management Calcutta, where he completed a one-year Executive CFO Programme, Kanorwala brings a strong academic and professional foundation to his new role.

With over 15 years of experience in finance and accounts, he has built deep expertise across financial planning and analysis, budgeting, treasury, taxation, compliance, risk management, governance, strategic finance, and financial reporting.

Over the course of his career, Kanorwala has been associated with leading hospitality brands such as Hilton Hotels, Accor Hotels, and The Indian Hotels Company Limited, gaining strong domain expertise across global and Indian markets.

Prior to joining Suba Hotels Limited, he served as Corporate Director – Finance at Roots Corporation Limited, which operates the Ginger Hotels brand under the IHCL Group. In this role, he was part of the key management team and oversaw the organisation’s overall financial function.

Known for his strategic approach, Kanorwala has played a pivotal role in driving financial decision-making, supporting business growth, strengthening financial planning and discipline, and enhancing governance frameworks and internal controls. He has also led process transformation initiatives through technology and automation.

With this appointment, Suba Hotels Limited continues to reinforce its leadership structure, aiming to drive financial efficiency and sustainable growth in the competitive hospitality landscape.


Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad Appoints Sumeet Ahire as Cluster Revenue Director

Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad Appoints Sumeet Ahire as Cluster Revenue Director

By Hariharan U

Published on April 16, 2026

Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad has announced the appointment of Sumeet Ahire as Cluster Revenue Director, reinforcing its strategic leadership in revenue management.

Bringing close to two decades of experience in hospitality revenue management and reservations, Sumeet is known for blending analytical expertise with a strong understanding of guest dynamics and market trends.

In his new role, he will lead the overall revenue strategy across properties, focusing on pricing, forecasting, distribution, and performance analysis. His mandate includes driving sustainable revenue growth, strengthening market positioning, and enhancing overall profitability.

Over the course of his career, Sumeet has been associated with globally respected hospitality brands such as Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, Taj Hotels, and Ventive Hospitality. His diverse experience across leading hotel groups has equipped him with a strong commercial perspective and operational insight.

Recognised for his collaborative leadership style and sharp analytical acumen, Sumeet has consistently contributed to improving commercial performance and driving strategic outcomes. His ability to align revenue goals with guest experience makes him well-positioned to support the hotels’ long-term business objectives.

Sharing his thoughts on the new role, Sumeet Ahire said, “I am excited to take on this new role and be part of the Hyatt family. I look forward to collaborating with the talented team at the property to drive revenue growth and maintain the stellar reputation for delivering exceptional guest experiences.”

With this appointment, Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad continues to strengthen its commercial leadership, further enhancing its positioning as one of the city’s leading business hospitality destinations


Fairfield by Marriott Jaipur Appoints Vijay Singh as Chief Engineer

Fairfield by Marriott Jaipur Appoints Vijay Singh as Chief Engineer

By Hariharan U

Published on April 16, 2026

Fairfield by Marriott Jaipur has announced the appointment of Vijay Singh as its new Chief Engineer, further strengthening its operational leadership team.

With over 15 years of experience in hotel engineering and facilities management, Singh brings a well-rounded skill set spanning preventive maintenance, energy optimization, safety compliance, and operational efficiency within the hospitality sector.

Prior to this role, he served as Chief Engineer at Accor IBIS Jaipur, where he successfully led engineering operations for a multi-facility property. His professional journey also includes tenures with leading hospitality brands such as Hilton Jaipur, Radisson Blu Nagpur, Marriott Renaissance Ahmedabad, The Oberoi Rajvilas Jaipur, and Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace Jodhpur. This diverse experience has equipped him with deep insights across luxury, upscale, and business hotel environments.

Recognized for his hands-on leadership approach, Singh has consistently implemented effective preventive maintenance programs, energy conservation initiatives, and cost-optimization strategies. His contributions have enhanced operational performance while ensuring elevated guest comfort and seamless service delivery.

His expertise also extends to managing critical infrastructure, conducting safety audits, and mentoring engineering teams to uphold high operational standards. Over the years, Singh has been honoured with several accolades, including the prestigious Marriott Asia Pacific Promises of the Year Award 2018, along with multiple performance and leadership recognitions.

With this appointment, Fairfield by Marriott Jaipur reinforces its commitment to operational excellence and infrastructure strength, aiming to deliver consistent and high-quality guest experiences under Singh’s leadership.

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