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 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.


TREVOC Group Strengthens Leadership with Appointment of Aman Bhasin as AVP – Sales

TREVOC Group Strengthens Leadership with Appointment of Aman Bhasin as AVP – Sales

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 3, 2025

TREVOC Group has strengthened its leadership team by appointing Aman Bhasin as Assistant Vice President – Sales as the brand continues to expand its premium real estate footprint in Gurugram. Aman brings over a decade of experience working with leading developers such as Whiteland Corporation, M3M India Pvt. Ltd. and Omaxe Ltd., where he built a strong track record in driving revenue growth and leading high-performing sales teams.

Speaking about the appointment, Gurpal Singh Chawla, Managing Director, TREVOC Group, said, “Aman’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for TREVOC as we scale our premium footprint across Gurugram. His deep market understanding, strategic sales mindset, and proven ability to build high-performance teams make him a valuable addition to our leadership.”

Sharing his excitement about joining the organisation, Aman Bhasin said, “TREVOC’s ambition to lead Gurugram’s next era of premium real estate development is fully aligned with my approach to delivering excellence and long-term value.”

With this appointment, TREVOC Group continues to reinforce its commitment to delivering high-quality and future-ready developments across Gurugram.


Atmosphere Core Appoints Three New General Managers Across Its Maldives Resorts

Atmosphere Core Appoints Three New General Managers Across Its Maldives Resorts

By Hariharan U

Published on December 2, 2025

Atmosphere Core, one of South Asia’s leading hospitality names with strong expansion plans across Asia and Europe, has announced the appointment of three new General Managers across its well-known Maldives resorts under Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts and COLOURS OF OBLU. The move reflects the company’s growing focus on seamless operations, consistent brand experiences and innovation in guest engagement.

Under the Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts portfolio, Mr Maurice Van Den Bosch assumes leadership at VARU by Atmosphere, while Mr Mario Stanic takes charge as General Manager at RAAYA by Atmosphere. Within the COLOURS OF OBLU brand, Mr Brett Craig Castleman joins as the new General Manager of OBLU SELECT Sangeli.

Mario Stanic, who steps into his role at RAAYA by Atmosphere, brings an international career shaped by over 30 years of experience across luxury resorts in the Maldives, Indian Ocean, Europe, the Middle East and APAC. Known for reimagining guest journeys with emotion-led hospitality, he blends creative thinking with strong operational discipline. “True hospitality is about emotion. It’s the feeling guests take home. My aim is to craft moments that resonate, driven by teamwork and genuine care,” says Mario.

Joining VARU by Atmosphere, Maurice Van Den Bosch brings over 25 years of global experience across the Maldives, Sri Lanka and the Caribbean. His easy-going, collaborative leadership style reflects his Australian roots, and he is widely recognised within Atmosphere Core for his ability to translate strategy into consistent results. “Varu has a unique rhythm. It’s vibrant and full of soul. My goal is to lead with energy and collaboration, ensuring guests feel that joy in every interaction,” says Maurice.

At OBLU SELECT Sangeli, Brett Craig Castleman steps in with 27 years of hospitality experience across Africa, the Indian Ocean and the Caribbean. Known for his warm, intuitive approach, he focuses on creating heartfelt, meaningful guest experiences. “Great hospitality begins with genuine connection. When a team feels valued, guests feel it too. My vision is to nurture that shared passion every single day,” says Brett.

Speaking about the appointments, Mr Ashwin Handa, Chief Operating Officer, Atmosphere Core, said, “Leadership agility and strong operational alignment are vital to our continued success. Mario, Maurice and Brett bring not only extensive international experience but also a deep commitment to our philosophy of heartfelt hospitality. Their leadership will strengthen our collective mission to deliver the Joy of Giving.”

These appointments come at a time when Atmosphere Core continues to grow its portfolio, expand global partnerships and strengthen its presence across key destinations

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