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.


Novotel New Delhi City Centre Appoints Vishal Sharma as Director of Finance

Novotel New Delhi City Centre Appoints Vishal Sharma as Director of Finance

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 19, 2026

Novotel New Delhi City Centre has announced the appointment of Vishal Sharma as its new Director of Finance. With nearly two decades of experience in hospitality finance, Vishal brings strong expertise in financial strategy, business planning, performance management, budgeting, forecasting, compliance and cost optimisation.

Throughout his career, Vishal has worked across various financial and operational areas of hotel businesses, with a focus on improving efficiency, profitability and sustainable business performance.

Vishal has been associated with leading hospitality brands including The Oberoi Group, Zuri Hotels & Resorts, Four Points by Sheraton, Hyatt Hotels Corporation and Selina Hospitality. His professional journey includes multiple finance leadership roles, with his most recent position being Country Finance Director for Australia and Thailand at Selina Hospitality.

Recognised for his strategic thinking, commercial understanding and strong financial discipline, Vishal has played an important role in strengthening financial controls, improving cost management and enhancing operational efficiencies. His career achievements include supporting the successful conversion of Alila to Hyatt, helping implement the GST system across Hyatt India Hotels and delivering strong GOP flow-through against budget through effective cost management.

In his new role as Director of Finance at Novotel New Delhi City Centre, Vishal will use his extensive hospitality finance experience and performance-focused approach to strengthen financial processes and support the hotel’s continued growth. A strong believer in developing people along with processes, Vishal follows a leadership approach focused on accountability, teamwork and building high-performing finance teams.

Sharing his views on the appointment, Mr Saumitra Chaturvedi, General Manager, said, "Vishal brings a thoughtful and grounded approach to hospitality finance, with a clear understanding of both people and business. His balanced approach and clarity in decision-making will be a valuable addition to our leadership team, and I am confident he will make a meaningful contribution to the hotel."


Nikita Singh Paul Joins ONE Atmosphere Suites as Director of Sales in Gurugram

Nikita Singh Paul Joins ONE Atmosphere Suites as Director of Sales in Gurugram

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 19, 2026

ONE Atmosphere has announced the appointment of Nikita Singh Paul as Director of Sales at ONE Atmosphere Suites at Corner Walk, Gurugram. The appointment comes as the brand prepares for the launch of its first aparthotel and strengthens its commercial leadership team.

With over 16 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Nikita brings expertise across global hotel brands, pre-opening projects, unit properties, domestic and outbound sales. She also has strong knowledge of MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events) and Travel Trade segments.

Sharing his thoughts on the appointment, Sandeep Ahuja, Managing Director, ONE Atmosphere and Atmosphere Living, said, “As we prepare to introduce ONE Atmosphere Suites to the Gurugram market, building a strong and experienced leadership team is central to our growth strategy. Nikita brings an impressive combination of market knowledge, commercial expertise, and relationship-driven leadership. Her understanding of the NCR hospitality landscape and proven ability to drive sustainable business growth will play an important role in establishing ONE Atmosphere Suites as a preferred premium aparthotel in the region.”

Commenting on Nikita joining the team, Vipul Kamboj, General Manager, ONE Atmosphere Suites at Corner Walk, Gurugram, said, "We are delighted to welcome Nikita to the leadership team at an important stage in the property’s journey. Her extensive experience in sales and business development, coupled with her strong understanding of corporate and long-stay demand in NCR, will be invaluable as we build our commercial strategy ahead of the launch. I look forward to working closely with her to create strong partnerships and position the property for long-term success.”

Known for her business understanding, knowledge of the NCR market and ability to create strong client relationships, Nikita has successfully delivered business growth through strategic partnerships, revenue-focused initiatives and building effective sales teams.

Speaking about her new role, Nikita Singh Paul, Director of Sales, ONE Atmosphere Suites at Corner Walk, Gurugram, said, “I am excited to join ONE Atmosphere at such a defining stage in the brand’s journey. The aparthotel segment presents a compelling opportunity in Gurugram, particularly as travellers increasingly seek flexible, premium accommodation that combines the comfort of a residence with the service standards of hospitality. I look forward to working with the team to build meaningful client partnerships, create a strong market presence, and contribute to the successful launch and sustained growth of ONE Atmosphere Suites.”

In her new role, Nikita will oversee the property’s sales strategy, business development activities, corporate partnerships, key account growth and revenue generation initiatives. She will also contribute to the pre-opening commercial plans while developing opportunities across corporate, extended-stay and other important business segments.

With Gurugram and the wider NCR region continuing to grow as a key business and travel destination, Nikita’s appointment adds further strength to ONE Atmosphere Suites’ leadership team. The move supports the brand’s vision of creating a premium aparthotel experience that combines residential comfort with hospitality services.


Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata Appoints Chef Ganesh Singh as Executive Chef

Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata Appoints Chef Ganesh Singh as Executive Chef

By Hariharan U

Published on August 19, 2026

Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata & Ozone Convention Centre has appointed Chef Ganesh Singh as Executive Chef, bringing an experienced culinary leader with more than a decade of hospitality experience across India and Bhutan to the property.

Born in Uttarakhand and raised in Shillong, Chef Ganesh's early years at Assam Rifles Public School, a military boarding institution, shaped his approach to discipline, leadership and teamwork. These values have continued to influence his culinary career across leading hospitality brands in South Asia.

After completing his hospitality education in Kolkata, Chef Ganesh began his professional journey with Hyatt Pune, where he gained experience across diverse kitchen operations and developed his technical foundation.

He later joined the pre-opening team at Kochi Marriott Hotel in 2014, taking on increasing responsibilities as his culinary and leadership expertise developed. In 2019, he moved to JW Marriott Kolkata as Sous Chef and was subsequently promoted to Chef de Cuisine. His return to Kochi Marriott as Executive Sous Chef further strengthened his focus on team development, collaboration and operational excellence.

One of the defining chapters of his career came at Le Méridien Thimphu, Bhutan, where he led culinary operations in an international environment catering to distinguished guests, including heads of state, ambassadors, military leaders and government delegations. His experience included serving His Majesty the King of Bhutan on multiple occasions and hosting the Prime Minister of India along with senior government delegations.

Now returning to Kolkata, Chef Ganesh brings both professional experience and a personal connection to the city where he studied and developed his appreciation for India's diverse culinary traditions.

"Kolkata has always had a special place in my heart. It is where I studied, where I grew professionally, and where I learned to appreciate the diversity of Indian cuisine and hospitality," said Chef Ganesh Singh.

At Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata, Chef Ganesh will focus on strengthening the property's overall culinary and hospitality proposition. His priorities include elevating Kava into a sought-after buffet destination in Kolkata, developing the culinary and experiential identity of Vertex, the hotel's rooftop bar, and further positioning Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata & Ozone Convention Centre as a destination for social celebrations, corporate events and dining experiences.

Commenting on the appointment, Somrup Chanda, General Manager – Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata & Ozone Convention Centre, said Chef Ganesh's experience across diverse markets, international exposure and people-centric leadership approach would add significant value to the team.

He added that Kolkata's discerning food culture presents an opportunity for Chef Ganesh to bring a fresh perspective to the property's culinary offerings while strengthening Kava, Vertex and the wider food and beverage proposition.

With Chef Ganesh Singh taking charge of the culinary operations, Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata & Ozone Convention Centre aims to further develop its dining experiences while strengthening its position as a hospitality and events destination in the city.

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