Architect Khozema Chitalwala has some impressive projects to his credit. Let’s watch him in action!
Architect Khozema Chitalwala, Principal Architect and Designer, Designers Group, is a prominent name in the architectural pool. He has been a major driving force for several independent and collaborative projects across the globe. Khozema believes that contextual and sensitive design add immeasurable value to any project. Here, we showcase a few of the design firm’s noteworthy projects…
Devi Ratn, Jaipur
Spanning across 20 acres, the masterplan for the hotel property was created by Bhagwat and Associates, and the architecture and interiors were done by Urban Studio. In 2019, the renovation of this architectural marvel was assigned to Designers Group, as Taj Hotels was on the verge of launching a new boutique brand called ‘SeleQtions’ by IHCL.
The main lobby illustrates magnificence. The lobby was turned into an assortment of colourful hues through the composition of vibrant décor items, furniture configurations, lighting elements, and customized soft furnishings enthused with peacocks and butterflies from the Bharatpur sanctuary. Chandeliers designed with a modish approach dangle from the ceiling with the notion of breaking the volume of the tunnel-like interiors. The entire hotel exemplifies bold, big and captivating design with subtle regional nuance.
Fairfield by Marriott, Mumbai
Designed and conceptualized by the Designers Group, Fairfield by Marriott is nestled in the metropolis city of Mumbai. “It is the very first branch in the city and the best in India reflecting Marriott’s standard of warm hospitality that is inspired to create an inviting and effortless experience. The design concept is a minimal and contemporary setting while embracing and integrating the cultural and local influences of the region in which it is being built,” says Khozema.
The entrance plays with various patterns and textures to elevate the hotel’s experience. To capture the nautical spirit of the city, the colour scheme was carefully chosen, ranging from white to blue and everything in between. The lobby is further adorned with parametric elements, such as a circular rug on the floor, curved couches supported by wooden logs at the back, and a quirky chandelier boosting the illumination in the space. The stone backdrop for the lobby area is designed parametrically to blend in with the surroundings.
Wow Hotel
The Wow Hotel in Indore by Designers Group, drawing its inspiration from quintessentially Indian elements, is a perfect example of a leisure destination that showcases the beauty of Indian culture.
This stunning 5-star property located in Madhya Pradesh displays elements inspired by the national bird of India, the peacock. The façade of the hotel is also inspired by the national bird. As this was an existing floor plate, glazing was selected as the main material to redo the façade. The glazing was broken randomly at regular intervals to break the monotony in the building profile.
The overall design showcases the intelligent use of indigenous materials and cost-effective, locally-sourced design elements that lend a rich heritage vibe. Incidentally, the factor of sustainability was also considered and smart usage of solar panels was planned.
This article has been excerpted from our sister publication ‘Society Interiors & Design’
