In conversation with Jaun Shahi, Travellers’ World delves into the visionary journey curated by Vishal Tony, CEO & Founder of Aratt Hospitality and the ingenious mind behind Ayatana Hospitality. Discover how his commitment to harmonizing luxury with nature is reshaping the landscape of hospitality experiences.
- Could you share the genesis of Ayatana Hospitality and its vision? What inspired you to venture into the hospitality industry, particularly in creating spaces that emphasize tranquillity, luxury, and nature?
Ayatana Hospitality’s journey in the hospitality industry commenced in 2015 when Aratt Developers inaugurated its initial chain of business hotels, branded as Plus Hotels. As we explored this sector further, it became clear that hospitality offered significant opportunities and was a logical extension of our real estate ventures. This realization marked the genesis of Ayatana, leading to the launch of our first luxury resort, Ayatana Coorg, in 2018. Since then, our trajectory has been marked by continuous success, solidifying our commitment to this path.
At Ayatana, our mission is to provide an experience that seamlessly integrates with nature, allowing our guests to submerge themselves in the awe-inspiring environment. What distinguishes us is our steadfast dedication to curating experiences that instill a profound appreciation for and connection with the natural world. We firmly believe that authentic luxury lies in the harmonious blend of opulence and the natural realm. By immersing our guests in environments that encourage a genuine connection with nature, we strive to craft a distinctive and unforgettable experience, setting Ayatana apart in the realm of luxury hospitality.
Our vision is to be a globally recognized brand, offering exceptional leisure experiences for travellers worldwide through our dedication to responsible luxury and by creating indelible memories through exceptional hospitality.
- Ayatana Coorg is renowned for its exquisite luxury and immersion in nature. What were the primary elements or experiences you aimed to offer guests when conceptualizing and developing this property?
Ayatana Coorg was meticulously designed to deliver a remarkable blend of luxury and nature. Our distinctive feature, a private natural waterfall on the property, ensures that guests are enveloped in a rare and lavish environment. Wake up to the harmonious melodies of birdsong, the gentle rhythm of cascading water, and the soothing murmur of streams—a unique and immersive experience that defines our commitment to offering unparalleled luxury in a naturally enchanting setting.
- Coming from a family rooted in architecture, how has this background influenced your approach to creating spaces within the hospitality sector, especially considering Ayatana’s unique blend of luxury and nature?
Drawing on our architectural background, we integrate design and aesthetics into our properties to curate extraordinary guest experiences. Our guest cottages exemplify thoughtful design, strategically maximizing natural light to minimize reliance on artificial lighting during the day. This dual benefit not only conserves energy but also fosters a welcoming ambience for our guests. Additionally, our cottages employ prefabricated steel structures, demonstrating a commitment to preserving the natural surroundings with minimal impact on local flora and fauna. This design ensures a harmonious coexistence between our properties and their environments, enhancing the overall guest experience through sustainable and aesthetically pleasing architecture.
- With Ayatana Hospitality expanding to various destinations like Kochi, Coorg, and Ooty, what considerations or themes do you prioritize to ensure each property maintains its individuality while adhering to the brand’s ethos?
At Ayatana, our foremost objective is to seamlessly weave luxury into the fabric of nature for every guest, ensuring a unique experience at each destination. This commitment extends to our branding, where we draw inspiration from the natural surroundings. For instance, the Ayatana Coorg logo, resembling a ripple, embodies the water element of the natural waterfall. Likewise, the Ayatana Ooty logo, featuring a contour, mirrors the scenic hilly landscapes. This attention to detail ensures that every Ayatana property maintains its individual identity, intimately connected to its distinctive surroundings while upholding the overarching ethos of our brand.
- Beyond your role at Ayatana, you’re also Vice President at Aratt Developers. How do you navigate the balance between your roles in architecture and hospitality, and how does each sector inform and complement the other in your overall vision for the future of Aratt and Ayatana?
Balancing the roles as Vice President at Aratt Developers and within Ayatana involves a harmonious integration of architecture and hospitality. In architecture, the focus lies in innovative design and sustainable practices, which significantly influence Ayatana’s approach to creating distinctive and environmentally conscious spaces within the hospitality sector. The insights gained in architecture inform the aesthetic and functional aspects of Ayatana properties, ensuring a thoughtful design that enhances the guest experience.
Conversely, the dynamism of the hospitality sector enriches our architectural endeavours by presenting unique challenges and opportunities. Learning from Ayatana’s commitment to luxury in nature, Aratt Developers is inspired to infuse future real estate projects with a similar ethos, creating spaces that not only fulfil practical needs but also offer immersive and enriching experiences.
Ultimately, the synergy between architecture and hospitality within my roles fosters a forward-thinking vision for both Aratt and Ayatana. By leveraging the strengths of each sector, we aim to redefine the boundaries of design and hospitality, creating spaces that resonate with people and the environment, shaping a sustainable and luxurious future for both entities.
Author: Jaun Shahi
Journalist, Sub-Editor, Travellers’ World Jaun is a soft-spoken and gentle soul who thrives as a Journalist with his exceptional observation skills and an eye for intricate details. He is a true multitasker who efficiently handles various tasks and always brings a professional approach to everything he does. His genuine team spirit makes him an integral part of the TW family, as he consistently collaborates and supports his colleagues.
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