EPISODE 126: Are All Indian Hotels Starting to Look the Same? | Ar. Anil Badan on the Future of Hospitality Design
From Jammu to Nairobi, from the Himalayan slopes of Gulmarg to the tropical coastlines of Goa — Ar. Anil Badan, Founder and Principal Architect at Studio B Architects, has shaped some of the most iconic hospitality destinations across India and the world. With over 25 years of experience and projects spanning countries like Kenya, China, Pakistan, Bahrain, and Zambia, his portfolio includes names like The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Radisson Blu Agra, Taj Gateway Raipur, Park Plaza Lahore, Holiday Inn Noida, and many more.
In this episode of The CODE, we sit down with Ar. Badan to explore the evolution of Indian hospitality design — and ask the question that’s on everyone’s mind: “Are all Indian hotels starting to look the same?”
His journey from Genesis Interiors and Fab Interiors to establishing Studio B Architects in 2002.
The behind-the-scenes challenges of building in extreme climates — like the Khyber Himalayan Resort in Gulmarg.
What it takes to design 50+ hotels across continents — and how culture, climate, and context shape architecture.
The creative constraints of working with global hotel brands like Radisson, Holiday Inn, Lemon Tree, and Marriott.
Whether brand guidelines are killing creativity in Indian hospitality design.
Why many Indian hotels now look “copy-paste” and how the industry can reclaim originality.
The rise of boutique hotels vs. large chains — and where the real design innovation lies.
His take on Indian developers, ROI pressures, and the future of design individuality.
Fun segments including a rapid-fire round (his wildest client request, favorite project, and biggest design regret) and a “this or that” game revealing his personal preferences in design.
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🧠 What We Discussed: