Wellness-Centric Design: Redefining Luxury Living in Hotels

In an exclusive interaction with Jaipriya, Assistant Editor at Homes India, Harshal Dilwali, Director & CEO at Clarissa Hotels & Resorts, shares his valuable inputs on how wellness-centric designs are redefining luxury living in hotels and homes.

With a dynamic portfolio spanning hospitality, law, real estate, and entrepreneurship, Harshal is a visionary leader dedicated to catalyzing innovation and setting new benchmarks of excellence across diverse industries.

How is wellness-centric design transforming guest expectations in luxury hotels and branded residences today? 

Well-being has become the new definition of luxury. Guests now look for spaces that restore them mentally and physically, rather than just impress visually. At Clarissa Resorts, we’ve seen this shift first-hand. Guests choose us because they want to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with themselves and nature. Wellness-centric design is no longer an add-on; it’s the foundation of how people want to live and travel.

What role do elements like biophilic architecture, natural lighting, and sensory design play in enhancing overall well-being for residents and travelers? 

Biophilic design in hospitality, coupled with sensory-focused design, supports what humans instinctively need is sunlight, fresh air, greenery, and tactile comfort. Clarissa’s locations, especially in destinations like Jim Corbett and Goa, embrace landscape-led planning to bring nature into everyday moments. From large windows designed for sunrise views to warm textures and calming color palettes, the environment becomes a silent healer, improving mood, sleep, and energy often without the guest even realizing the science behind it.

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How are developers and hospitality brands balancing wellness-focused amenities with sustainability and cost-efficiency? 

The most effective wellness environments are naturally sustainable. At Clarissa, practices like natural ventilation, eco-friendly hotel design, energy-efficient lighting, and eco-friendly materials balance guest well-being with environmental responsibility. Instead of excessive or expensive amenities, the key is designing multi-functional spaces, yoga lawns that double as community areas, or gardens that support mindful walking and biodiversity. True luxury today is about thoughtful spaces that nurture people and the planet.

Well-being has become the new definition of luxury. Guests now look for spaces that restore them mentally and physically, rather than just impress visually. - Harshal Dilwali, Director & CEO at Clarissa Hotels & Resorts

In what ways are technologies such as smart environments and AI-driven personalization shaping the future of wellness living spaces?  

Technology is becoming a quiet wellness partner. Smart environments, from air quality systems to personalized comfort settings, are transforming hospitality into a more intuitive experience. As we expand, Clarissa is integrating digital enhancements that support rest and relaxation, such as seamless check-ins, room automation, and AI-enhanced guest preferences. Technology shouldn’t overwhelm; it should simply make the healing process smoother. 

Also Read: Hospitality Trends: How Indian Hotels Are Leading the Change

Looking ahead, what emerging wellness trends do you believe will define the next generation of luxury hospitality and real estate experiences? 

We are moving toward holistic well-being that includes the mind, body, and community. The future will see:
 •Nature-immersive stays with forest-edge and coastal-wellness programs
 •Sleep wellness as a core luxury marker, calming interiors, zero-noise zones
 •Mental health and mindfulness spaces for reflection and rejuvenation
 •Nutrition-focused dining, prioritizing clean and local produce
 • Community connection, encouraging shared experiences over isolation

At Clarissa, our focus remains on building wellness retreats in India where guests don’t just stay; they heal, feel inspired, and leave better than they arrived.