Hong Kong-based Ovolo Group has announced its first international expansion project with the purchase of a hotel and serviced apartment property in Melbourne, Australia.

The Group acquired Somerset Gordon Heights for AUD11.7 million from Ascott Ltd, and plans to renovate and refurbish the property in distinctive Ovolo style to offer cool and contemporary city living.

Located in Little Bourke Street in Melbourne’s CBD, the property has 43 apartments, ranging from studios to 1- and 2-bedroom units as well as 3 penthouses with terraces overlooking the city. It is just a stone’s throw from the “Paris end” of Melbourne and a host of trendy eateries, and is in close proximity to Chinatown and just a 100-metre walk to Parliament House.

Upon re-opening in 2012, guests will have the choice of daily or monthly accommodation options.