Armed with a degree in architecture from the Academy of Architecture, and a dream to lead an internationally recognised design firm, Khozema Chitalwala started out his design journey from within the four walls of his bedroom. Establishing Designers Group in 1988, along with Sujata – a textile designer by training and Khozema’s partner in life and work, the first office was a modest setup in a 200 sq. ft. garage - with half a dozen people including the admin and office assistant. Back then the studio took up projects across all typologies – residential, corporate, and retail.
Somewhere down the line, deeply inspired by the international design firm Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA), a global runner in the hospitality design sector, Khozema set foot into hospitality designing. This decision could be said to be the turning point in the studio’s journey. Post the initial struggle, with persistence and hard work, the firm got to work on Taj Hotels and Resort. This IHCL project cemented the decision to shift the Designers Group focus exclusively to hospitality interiors! Today, Khozema Chitalwala is one of the biggest names in Indian hospitality design sector, and the Designers Group office has grown into a 5000+ sq. ft. studio space with over 70 staff members!
Throughout the long and arduous climb to the top, Sujata has been a pillar of strength and support for Designers Group. With an eye for aesthetics and a flair for people management, she has positioned herself perfectly at the studio - managing and guiding the design team. Fully utilizing her knowledge and talent, Sujata handles the soft furnishings and accessories in each project – giving it the enviable wow factor.
Dedication and diligence are the hallmarks of Khozema Chitalwala’s work life, and charm and generosity of spirit define his persona. Khozema’s understanding of culture, context, climate, and clientele significantly influences his approach to design, and has been particularly instrumental in paving his climb to success in the hospitality segment. A keen eye for detail aids his pursuit of perfection, adding the extra chutzpah to the experiential aesthetic of each project.
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