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.


Fairfield by Marriott Bengaluru Whitefield names Ishita Ganguly as hotel manager

Fairfield by Marriott Bengaluru Whitefield names Ishita Ganguly as hotel manager

By Hariharan U

Published on September 15, 2025

Fairfield by Marriott Bengaluru Whitefield has announced the appointment of Ishita Ganguly as its new hotel manager. A seasoned hospitality leader, Ganguly brings over 13 years of experience across top global hotel chains including Marriott International, IHG, Accor and Hyatt.

An alumna of the Institute of Hotel Management, Bangalore, she began her career as a corporate management trainee at Park Hyatt Chennai. Over the years, she has held senior roles at Hyatt Regency Mumbai, Accor’s Global Sales Office West India, Ibis Mumbai Cluster and Crowne Plaza Greater Noida.

Most recently, Ganguly was the complex director of sales and marketing at Courtyard & Fairfield by Marriott Bengaluru Outer Ring Road, where she earned recognition as Sales Rising Star Leader at Marriott International’s Elite Awards 2024.

Known for her expertise in sales and revenue management, Ganguly has consistently delivered strong commercial results across diverse market landscapes. She is admired for her strategic mindset, energetic leadership and focus on guest experience and operational excellence.

Beyond her professional achievements, she enjoys travelling and discovering new destinations, adding a personal touch to her passion for hospitality.


JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru Appoints Rohan Malwankar as Executive Chef

JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru Appoints Rohan Malwankar as Executive Chef

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on September 15, 2025

JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru has announced the appointment of Rohan Malwankar as its new executive chef. With over 14 years of distinguished experience across marquee Marriott International properties, Malwankar is known for his ingredient-led philosophy, modern sensibilities, and ability to craft dining experiences that blend authenticity with innovation.

Since joining Marriott International in 2007, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the culinary identity of several renowned hotels, including The St. Regis Mumbai, JW Marriott Mumbai, The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace, and Courtyard by Marriott Hebbal, Bengaluru. Most recently, he served as executive chef at Navi Mumbai Marriott Hotel, where he led pre- and post-opening culinary strategies, designed forward-thinking menus, and elevated guest experiences through regional storytelling.

Malwankar’s career has been marked by dynamic leadership, curating large-format galas such as celebrity weddings, and contributing to high-profile pre-opening task forces across India and Sri Lanka. His contributions to guest satisfaction, business growth, and community engagement have earned him 10 distinguished career awards.

Commenting on his appointment, Malwankar said, “It is an honour to join JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru in this exciting new chapter of my culinary journey. I look forward to working alongside the leadership team to champion bold flavours, introduce fresh perspectives, and create immersive dining experiences that reflect the soul of this iconic hotel.”

Welcoming him, Gaurav Sinha, General Manager, JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru, added, “We are delighted to welcome chef Rohan Malwankar to our leadership team. His wealth of experience, progressive culinary outlook, and ability to transform ingredients into stories make him a valuable asset. We are confident that his expertise will not only enrich our dining offerings but also strengthen the hotel’s positioning as one of Bengaluru’s most sought-after culinary destinations.”

In his new role, Malwankar will oversee all culinary operations at the property, including its award-winning restaurants such as Bengaluru Baking Company, Alba, Spice Terrace, JW Kitchen, Merak Brewhouse, and UNO Izakaya, as well as in-room dining and banqueting. With a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and consistent excellence, he aims to further elevate JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru’s dining reputation while upholding the brand’s legacy of luxury and quality.


Surat Marriott Hotel Appoints Bishwajeet Kumar as Executive Chef

Surat Marriott Hotel Appoints Bishwajeet Kumar as Executive Chef

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on September 12, 2025

Surat Marriott Hotel has announced the appointment of Bishwajeet Kumar as its new executive chef. Kumar brings with him over 23 years of experience in culinary leadership, spanning hotel kitchens, air catering services, cruise liners, and large-scale catering operations. He has worked with reputed hospitality brands such as Marriott International, IHCL, Hyatt, InterContinental Hotels Group, and The Orchid. His most recent role was with IHCL’s TajSats Air Catering in Goa.

With expertise in leading kitchen operations, developing menus, and delivering memorable dining experiences, Kumar is known for his operational precision and creative culinary approach.

In his new role at Surat Marriott Hotel, Kumar will oversee all culinary operations, including the hotel’s signature restaurants, banquets, and in-room dining. His focus will be on diligent operations, consistent food quality, and enhancing the guest experience.

Expressing his excitement about the appointment, Amit Mehta, Vice President of Operations, said:

“Chef Bishwajeet’s strong operational skills and genuine passion for food will be instrumental in elevating the dining experiences at Surat Marriott Hotel.”

With his extensive background and proven leadership, Kumar is set to strengthen Surat Marriott Hotel’s reputation for offering world-class dining experiences.

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