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.


Phygital Retail Convention 2025 Set to Showcase ‘Infinite India’ and the Future of Retail

Phygital Retail Convention 2025 Set to Showcase ‘Infinite India’ and the Future of Retail

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 27, 2025

Phygital Retail Convention (PRC) 2025, India's premier retail intelligence event, is all set to make a grand return on May 7-8, 2025, at the Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai. Presented by Inorbit Malls and powered by Mufti, the 6th edition of PRC will revolve around the theme, “Infinite India - The World’s Fastest Growing Retail Market.”

Positioned as the largest gathering of retail minds, PRC 2025 promises a two-day deep dive into innovation, ideation, and growth opportunities with over 1000 participating brands and companies. Year after year, the convention draws over 3000 top retail professionals, making it the ultimate hub for knowledge exchange, networking, and business development, spread across a spectacular 1-lakh-plus sq.ft venue.

Bhavesh Pitroda, Group CEO & Director, IMAGES Group, emphasized the event’s significance, saying, “India today stands at the cusp of a bold new chapter in its economic growth. PRC 2025 reflects the power of this new ‘Infinite India’, through not just its theme, but also via the vast and versatile line-up of speakers, exhibitors and attendees from across the country.”

This year, hundreds of top brands from sectors like fashion, food, lifestyle, real estate, and tech will take center stage, both from India and abroad. PRC 2025 will also see 300+ influential Retail, Business, and Management Leaders sharing their insights, including names like BS Nagesh (Chairman, Shoppers Stop Ltd.), Damodar Mall (CEO, Grocery, Reliance Retail), Harish Bhat (Former Brand Custodian, Tata Sons), Mukesh Bansal (Founder, Myntra, Cure.fit), and many others.

Adding a touch of excitement, India’s quiz legend Siddhartha Basu will return with the much-loved India Retail Brain Game, ensuring a vibrant and interactive experience for all attendees.

Alongside PRC, the concurrent show Retail TechNXT 2025 will present cutting-edge innovations in retail technology, featuring global majors like Salesforce and Diebold Nixdorf among the exhibitors.

Important Links for PRC 2025:

About IMAGES Group:

IMAGES Group is South Asia and the Middle East's leading retail intelligence organisation. Through its various knowledge platforms—print, online reportage, research, and major business events—IMAGES acts as a catalyst for the sustainable growth of modern retail.

For more information, contact:
Namrata Aswani - 9920710261 / Viraj Kalati - 9820065432


Mr. Akshat Arya Appointed as Director of Sales and Marketing at Four Points by Sheraton Nashik

Mr. Akshat Arya Appointed as Director of Sales and Marketing at Four Points by Sheraton Nashik

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 26, 2025

We are thrilled to announce that Mr. Akshat Arya has joined Four Points by Sheraton Nashik as the new Director of Sales and Marketing (DOSM). With an impressive career in the hospitality industry, Mr. Arya is poised to bring his vast experience and dynamic leadership to take the hotel's sales and marketing efforts to greater heights.

Known for his mantra, “The only thing standing between you and success is you,” Akshat Arya's rise in the hospitality world has been fueled by passion, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Starting as an eager trainee, he has swiftly ascended to become a dynamic sales leader with a proven track record of success across various facets of hospitality.

Akshat Arya’s appointment marks a significant milestone for Four Points by Sheraton Nashik, as his visionary leadership is expected to drive the hotel’s strategic sales initiatives and further strengthen its market presence.

About Four Points by Sheraton Nashik

Four Points by Sheraton Nashik is renowned for its exceptional hospitality services and commitment to guest satisfaction. With a focus on providing comfort and convenience, the hotel promises a memorable stay for all visitors.


Udaipur Marriott Hotel Appoints Mohit Mishra as New Executive Chef

Udaipur Marriott Hotel Appoints Mohit Mishra as New Executive Chef

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 26, 2025

Udaipur Marriott Hotel is thrilled to announce the appointment of Mohit Mishra as the new Executive Chef, effective April 24, 2025. With a distinguished career spanning over two decades in India’s leading hospitality brands, Chef Mishra brings a wealth of expertise and innovation to his new role.

A graduate of the Culinary Academy of India, Chef Mohit Mishra has worked at prestigious properties like The Westin Sohna Resort and Spa, Taj Deccan Hyderabad, Vivanta Hyderabad Begumpet, and Taj Krishna Hyderabad. His career began at Taj Fort Aguada Resort and Spa in Goa and Taj Lands End in Mumbai, where he refined his culinary techniques and developed a passion for creating exceptional dining experiences.

Chef Mishra is known for his inventive approach to cuisine, emphasizing sustainability, fresh sourcing, and the thoughtful curation of menus. His philosophy centers around crafting culinary experiences that highlight both traditional flavors and contemporary techniques. At Udaipur Marriott Hotel, he will oversee all culinary operations, including menu development, cost control, and ensuring top-notch food safety and preparation standards.

In his new role, Chef Mishra’s vision is to elevate the hotel’s dining offerings, blending Udaipur’s rich culinary heritage with innovative dining experiences that will leave guests with lasting memories. His leadership will play a key role in enhancing the hotel’s diverse and curated culinary experiences, ensuring they reflect the vibrant culture and flavors of the region.

“We are excited to welcome Chef Mohit Mishra to our team,” said Vaibhav Sagar, General Manager of Udaipur Marriott Hotel. “His vast experience and creative culinary artistry align perfectly with our commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences. We are confident that his leadership will elevate our culinary offerings and delight our guests.”

Udaipur Marriott Hotel, nestled against the majestic Aravalli Hills and overlooking the serene Fateh Sagar Lake, offers an array of indulgent culinary experiences. Chef Mishra’s appointment will further enhance the hotel’s dedication to culinary excellence, promising guests an elevated dining journey that celebrates the essence of Udaipur’s rich cultural and culinary traditions.

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