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Behind the Design: Our Architectural Process

byDesigners GroupConsultations at our design office in Mahim, MumbaiView full gallery

We reveal the reality of our hospitality design journey, from initial conceptual sketches and material selection to the technical precision required for on-site execution.

A time-lapse video showing the rapid, three-day execution of the iLounge at the IDAC Expo. This demonstrates our team's ability to transform a complex design from a structural frame to a finished, immersive space with precision and speed.

On-site footage from a project in Sasan Gir, showing the design in process. This behind-the-scenes look reveals the foundational stages of construction, from rebar columns to the initial brickwork, as our vision takes shape.

A snapshot from a work-in-progress site, where raw materials are being sculpted into purposeful spaces. This image captures architecture in its dynamic state of emergence, before the finishing touches are applied.

Members of our design team, Alisha Chitalwala and Husain Jariwala, share insights into the concept behind the iLounge. They discuss the use of fabric, the black-and-white color palette, and the goal of creating a luxurious space from simple materials.

Principal Architect Khozema Chitalwala discusses our sixth consecutive year designing the iLounge for the IDAC Expo. He speaks about the contemporary design and thanks the team for bringing the complex vision to life in just three days.

Ar. Khozema Chitalwala delivering a guest lecture on 'Trailblazing Hospitality Design' at his alma mater, Rachna Sansad. This full-circle moment allowed us to share insights and inspiration with the next generation of architects.

During a panel discussion on human-centric design, Ar. Khozema Chitalwala explains that all architecture must be inherently human-centric. He discusses how we connect design with human emotion, storytelling, and experience.

About this collection

Designing for high-traffic hospitality spaces requires more than aesthetic vision; it demands rigorous on-site coordination. For instance, executing the iLounge at the IDAC Expo within a strict three-day timeframe taught us that conceptual fluidity is meaningless without precise technical documentation. When you step onto our sites, you will see us prioritizing material durability and MEP integration—ensuring that the final luxury is grounded in structural integrity.

Our Approach to Hospitality Architecture

True architectural success lies in the balance between emotional resonance and structural longevity. We define our practice through a human-centric lens, ensuring that every hotel, resort, or restaurant we design is built for the people who occupy it.

The Technical Foundation

Our process begins long before the first wall is erected. We create detailed documentation and Good for Construction (GFC) drawings, which act as the roadmap for our design vision. This stage involves complex MEP coordination, where we integrate HVAC, fire safety, and lighting strategies into the architectural fabric. We specify materials based on high-traffic performance—such as commercial-grade veneers and tested fabrics—to ensure that the design remains pristine throughout years of operational use.

From Concept to Construction

We treat construction sites as extensions of the design studio. Regular site supervision is critical to our methodology. By being physically present to monitor sample room construction and finish quality, we minimize errors and ensure that the artistic intent matches the reality. Whether we are planning for optimized guest flow in a five-star lobby or the acoustical requirements of a lounge, our team works to ensure the end result meets strict brand standards and functional needs.

Why This Matters

Design is not merely about visuals; it is about how a space functions under the pressure of hospitality operations. By focusing on durability, local cultural context, and precise execution, we create environments that are both commercially effective and deeply personal. We invite you to view our project portfolio to see how this technical process translates into finished, lived-in experiences.

35 years of hospitality design experience.Approved by the tribe
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Designers Group

Consultations at our design office in Mahim, MumbaiStarting ₹250 ₹ per Sq. Ft.

My name is Khozema Chitalwala. Alongside Sujata, we established Designers Group to build spaces that feel alive, moving beyond mere visuals to focus on emotional connection. Whether it is a luxury resort or a city club, we focus on durability, local culture, and the lived guest experience.

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