The art of luxury design

The luxury hotel industry in India is a perfect confluence of opulence and innovative design, reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage and modern aspirations. Indian luxury hotels are renowned for their ability to seamlessly integrate traditional aesthetics with contemporary elegance, creating visually stunning and exceptionally comfortable spaces. From the majestic palaces of Rajasthan to the sleek, modern skyscrapers of Mumbai, these hotels offer more than just lavish accommodations, offering an immersive experience embodying the essence of the country’s diverse cultural tapestry.

India’s rise as a premier ultra-luxury hotel destination is primarily driven by its domestic market, reveals JLL data. In 2022, the country had the second-fastest growing high-net-worth population globally, increasing by 10.5 per cent, and is projected to experience a nearly 60 per cent growth over the next five years. In fact, in the next 10 years, an additional 46,000 ultra-luxury hotel rooms are expected to open globally with the Asia-Pacific region leading the way, driven by markets like Hangzhou and Mumbai. The report identifies India as a must-watch global growth market, considering it is the world’s most populous country.

The fusion of traditional elegance with modern innovation makes Indian luxury hotels a unique destination for travellers seeking comfort and cultural enrichment as also offering a glimpse into the nation’s artistic legacy while catering to contemporary tastes. Hotel chains like Oberoi, Taj, and Leela redefine luxury through unique design philosophies. While Oberoi Group exemplifies sophisticated elegance through its modern design that seamlessly incorporates traditional Indian elements as at The Oberoi Udaivilas in Udaipur that boasts an exquisite fusion of Mughal architecture and contemporary luxury, with its sprawling courtyards and intricate frescoes offering a regal ambience, the Taj Group, with iconic properties like The Taj Mahal Palace in Mumbai and Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur, blends historical grandeur with modern comfort. Similarly, the Leela Group is known for its contemporary luxury, merging modern aesthetics with traditional craftsmanship – The Leela Palace in New Delhi features a stunning blend of classical Indian design with modern elegance, highlighted by its lavish interiors and sophisticated facilities. The Leela’s approach emphasises grandiose design while maintaining a focus on personalised service and state-of-the-art amenities.

Over the past five years, IHG Hotels & Resorts global luxury and lifestyle portfolio has undergone a remarkable transformation, doubling in size due to strategic acquisitions like Regent, Kimpton and Six Senses, alongside new launches such as the Vignette Collection. Today, this segment represents 14 per cent the total system size and 20 per cent of global pipeline, marking a 70 per cent increase in properties and a 50 per cent rise in rooms.

“In India, we are witnessing unprecedented growth driven by the booming economy, growing affluence and a heightened appetite for new-age luxury experiences. India is a priority growth market for us and we are actively exploring opportunities to introduce new brands from our global portfolio. Each of our luxury brands is tailored to meet distinct consumer needs. The InterContinental brand continues to have strong potential due to its 75-year legacy and global and local recognition, and we are on a growth trajectory for the brand. Meanwhile, Six Senses is expanding its footprint with award-winning properties in Rajasthan and Dehradun. Discussions are also underway to bring Regent Hotels and Resorts, Kimpton Hotels and Restaurants, and the Vignette Collection to India with the right partner in the right location. We are confident about the continued growth of our Luxury & Lifestyle portfolio in India,” says Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts.

The Grand Reception, Taj Skyline, Ahmedabad 

The first impression

Reema Diwan, Vice President of Design & Technical Services for India & South Asia at Accor Hotels, offers a compelling perspective on how luxury hotels in India craft unforgettable first impressions. “Hotels in India create a lasting first impression by seamlessly blending brand ethos with local nuances to communicate class, grandeur and opulence,” she says, emphasising the country’s burgeoning status as top destination for luxury travel is driven by a surge in domestic tourism and the growing affluence of the middle and upper classes.

Highlighting the importance of drawing inspiration from India’s rich design history, which is steeped in grandeur and opulence, she says, “Our rich history of design provides a unique foundation for crafting a more meaningful guest experience. At Accor Hotels, this means integrating local cultural elements with the brand’s essence, ensuring that each property remains relevant and engaging in today’s context,” she notes.

The Grand Lobby, Taj Skyline, Ahmedabad 

Diwan also stresses that luxury is not just about grandiosity but about creating a cohesive and immersive narrative. “We make sure to create a lasting first and final impression for our guests by harmonising traditional elements with contemporary design,” she explains. Whether in luxury, premium, or budget segments, Indian hotels strive to resonate with both historical richness and modern expectations, delivering an ambience that truly captivates their guests.

Sharing his opinion, Mohammed Rizwan Ali, Senior Vice President - Projects & Technical Services, IHCL, says, “As the world’s strongest hotel brand and India’s strongest brand across sectors, Taj with its legacy of over a century offers its guests a renowned hospitality experience through an articulate collection of brands, each enlivened by an illustrious commitment to serving our guests. Honed over 120 years, Taj’s design ethos honours the country’s rich cultural heritage by seamlessly integrating local artistry and traditional craftsmanship into every detail, creating an ambiance of elegance and grandeur.”

A key figure in the design and operations of Taj Hotels, Ali shares insights into how they craft an experience that exudes sophistication and luxury. “Offering a sense of place, our interiors seamlessly blend local art, modern aesthetics and refined details. This thoughtful integration creates an atmosphere that is not only elegant but deeply rooted in the local culture,” he explains.

The Lobby, Taj The Trees, Mumbai

Further describing the multisensory approach that defines the Taj experience, he shares, “The combination of curated fragrances, ambient lighting and personalised welcome rituals – including traditional Indian greetings – elevates the overall sense of opulence.” To enhance the guest experience, Taj Hotels focusses on incorporating advanced technology. “We utilise smart room controls, motorised screens and interactive displays to blend aesthetics with functionality,” he says. This integration ensures the luxury experience is both sophisticated and seamless.

Ali also emphasises on the importance of sustainability in their operations. “It is at the heart of our design and operations, driven by our ESG+ framework of Paathya. “We carefully integrate sustainable practices to ensure that our legacy of luxury endures responsibly for future generations,” he opines. This commitment ensures that Taj Hotels not only deliver exceptional luxury but also do so in a manner that respects and preserves the environment for the future.

The Lounge Lobby, Radisson Bengaluru City Centre

Effective design elements  

Design elements play a vital role in creating an immediate sense of luxury and sophistication when guests enter a hotel. It begins with a grand entrance and lobby featuring high ceilings, well-lit spaces and luxurious materials like marble or polished stone flooring. A statement chandelier adds elegance and grandeur to the space. Statement art and sculptures serve as captivating focal points, enhancing the visual experience.

Architect Reza Kabul, President, ARK Reza Kabul Architects says the layout’s symmetry and clean lines contribute to a refined, high-end aesthetic, while layered lighting – from custom chandeliers to subtle ambient lighting – sets the perfect mood, highlighting key design features. “A colour palette of soft, neutral tones like beige, gray or white, combined with rich accents like gold, navy, or emerald, adds depth and a calming atmosphere. Finally, attention to detail is crucial. Personalised touches like monogrammed items, curated decor and fresh flower arrangements, elevate the overall experience, signalling a commitment to sophistication and luxury. It’s these thoughtful details that ensure guests feel indulged and welcomed from the moment they arrive,” he shares.

Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director and ASVP, South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group, says, “A powerful first impression in luxury hotels is crafted through a mix of architectural grandeur and cultural immersion. Spacious lobbies, high ceilings and opulent materials create a lavish ambience, while the incorporation of local motifs and art adds authenticity. Sensory details such as curated scents and lighting further enhance the luxurious and sophisticated atmosphere.”

Sharma draws attention towards the hotels under the Radisson Collection brand that exemplify this approach with modern design, maintaining a strong local connection. “Our hotels feature vibrant social spaces for guest interaction and personalised rooms for a tailored experience. The first Radisson Collection in India - Radisson Collection Hotel & Spa, Riverfront Srinagar, stands out with its impressive scale and seamless integration of Kashmiri heritage, including traditional motifs and local art. This combination creates a sophisticated and culturally rich environment that extends beyond mere luxury,” he says.

Ritu Bhatia, Managing Director, Total Integrated Design (India) Pvt Ltd, opines that space and volume enable the designer to create an impact with materials and lighting that further give an impression of luxury. “Therefore, lobby planning is very important at the architectural stage and it is better the architect and interior design work together from planning stage to give this effect. However, not all plots give us the benefit of a grand space when entering a lobby. Therefore, in this case, using appropriate colours to create the feeling of space and creating wow elements with lighting, well-positioned reception and other elements, maybe a water body or a unique artwork – a ‘point of interest’ that speaks of a luxury element in lieu of the openness of space. Well-constructed furniture with the right ergonomics is also an understated feeling of luxury,” she explains.

The Deluxe Room, Taj The Trees, Mumbai

Integrating luxury with design  

Ar Kabul highlights the role of smart room technology in this transformation, noting that it allows guests to customise lighting, temperature and entertainment, ensuring a tailored and comfortable stay. However, he emphasises that true luxury extends beyond just the physical design. “Luxury is not just in the design – it extends to the service,” he says. Attentive staff, soothing aromas, ambient music, and meticulously maintained spaces all contribute to an enhanced overall experience. He believes the essence of luxury lies in the details such as personalised welcome notes, curated artwork and bespoke furniture, which together create a refined and exclusive atmosphere. “It’s about creating a seamless, understated elegance that prioritises comfort and subtle sophistication,” he feels.

She further elaborates on how Indian hotels are integrating luxury with design. “High ceilings, well-planned lighting, interesting artwork and luxury operating items like thicker mattresses and larger LCD screens are key elements,” she notes, also pointing out that in F&B spaces, “dining experiences with well-thought-through design” is another example of how design enhances the guest experience. This approach ensures that every aspect of the hotel environment contributes to a seamless and satisfying luxury experience.

Sustainable design elements

Shedding light on how sustainable design practices are being successfully implemented, Diwan explains, “Within the Accor portfolio, our commitment to sustainable design is exemplified through a range of initiatives that seamlessly integrate environmental responsibility with exceptional hospitality.” A standout example is the upcoming Novotel Panaji, Goa, which she describes as a model of modern hospitality harmonised with sustainability and biophilic design principles. “One of its most striking features will be the live facade – a dynamic and evolving exterior that captures the vibrant essence of Goa’s natural landscape,” she reveals. This innovative facade will incorporate living plants and eco-friendly materials, creating a visually captivating and environmentally conscious design. By using locally sourced materials, the hotel not only reduces its carbon footprint but celebrates regional craftsmanship and cultural heritage.

Energy efficiency is a central focus in Accor’s design approach, she shares, “We employ cutting-edge technologies to enhance the indoor microclimate while minimising environmental impact.” Features like green building technologies, solar panels, energy-efficient lighting, and advanced HVAC systems managed by AI dashboards are integral to this strategy, ensuring reduced energy consumption while maintaining luxury. Diwan emphasises on the importance of sustainable landscaping practices. “By using native plants that require minimal irrigation, we enhance the hotel’s environmental credentials. These green spaces support biodiversity, contribute to natural cooling and reinforce the synergy between travel and environmental stewardship. Additionally, Accor’s comprehensive waste management strategies, including recycling programmes and composting systems, aim to reduce single-use plastics and minimise waste,” she shares.

On how luxury hotels in India are addressing environmental sustainability, Bhatia says, “Sustainability is addressed through MEP and architectural planning, including building orientation and material selection. Water-saving methods and solar systems are incorporated to meet environmental mandates, and LED lighting is now standard in interior spaces. Brands are also developing water-saving faucets and WCs.” Ultimately, the level of sustainability depends on the owner’s and brand’s commitment, as reflected in their briefs to consultants. Together, these practices illustrate how luxury hotels in India are integrating sustainability into their design and operations, ensuring a balance between opulence and environmental responsibility.

En Suite Bedroom, Taj Skyline, Ahemdabad

Design in brand identity

Unveiling a new standard in eco-sensitive luxury with Taj The Trees, Ali says, “This hotel stands as a beacon of modern sustainable design and is a 100 per cent green power hotel, built with locally sourced materials to support regional vendors. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its features: 56 per cent of its occupied spaces benefit from natural sunlight, it has achieved IGBC Platinum certification with its zero single-use plastic policy and green-certified room amenities. Every design element and decor choice narrates the story of its locale.” The interiors are adorned with intricate patterns, handwoven textiles, and artisanal pieces inspired by the mangrove forests. The Shamiana restaurant’s entrance wall, featuring wood etchings crafted by local artisans, beautifully highlights the 100-year-old Cannonball trees and the Alexandrine Parakeet that nests there.

Meanwhile, Sharma highlights how design at RHG reflects its brand identity and philosophy. “Design is a powerful tool used to reflect and reinforce our brand identity and philosophy,” Sharma asserts. The Radisson Yes I Can! service philosophy is embedded in the design of their hotels, fostering welcoming spaces that encourage positive interactions and memorable guest experiences. “From materials and colour schemes to layout and decor, every element is thoughtfully curated to resonate with our brand’s essence,” he says. In India, Radisson luxury hotels blend traditional elements with modern design to create unique and memorable experiences. This approach connects hotels with regional culture and demonstrates a commitment to authenticity. “Radisson RED’s playful design attracts a younger crowd, while other luxury brands may choose a more classic style,” Sharma notes. This strategic alignment of design with the hotel’s target audience and brand philosophy ensures that each property offers something unique while staying true to core values.

Elaborating on how design reinforces brand identity across Accor hotels, Diwan opines, “We leverage design to align with our commitment to excellence, sustainability and cultural integration. Architectural designs often reflect brand identity, with luxury hotels featuring grand, opulent designs and premium hotels focusing on contemporary aesthetics.” Accor’s approach includes collaborating with local artisans and designers to enhance authenticity and support regional economies.  

The Coffee Shop, Radisson Bengaluru City Centre

Space and luxury in perfect harmony

Ar Kabul suggests several design strategies to maximise space without compromising the luxurious feel like avoid cluttering small spaces with too many furniture pieces and opting for minimalistic, functional and elegant furnishings, leaving ample circulation space to depict the luxury of openness; a toned-down, neutral color palette like soft whites, beiges and grays that create a sense of openness and airiness in smaller spaces; rather than crowding the space with multiple heavy or expensive materials, focussing on few standout elements, like a statement chandelier, a unique piece of artwork or a striking wall finish. “These features can instantly elevate the room’s ambience without overwhelming the space,” he opines, adding natural light should be emphasised as much as possible. Then, one should opt for built-in furniture and smart storage solutions; introduce a variety of textures such as polished wood, soft fabrics, or metallic accents to create depth and richness in a small space.  

Luxury hotels blend elegance with functionality through meticulous design and advanced technology, shares Sharma. “The Radisson Collection Hotel & Spa, Riverfront Srinagar, illustrates this approach well. Its layout features grand corridors and spacious rooms that are both visually striking and highly functional, with custom-designed furnishings that prioritise comfort and usability. It also integrates smart technology discreetly, such as advanced lighting and climate control systems, ensuring modern conveniences embed within the elegant decor,” he says. Additionally, efficient service design allows staff to offer prompt and unobtrusive assistance, enhancing the guest experience. This thoughtful approach ensures guests enjoy a luxurious stay that harmonises sophistication with practicality.