Ovolo South Yarra

Melbourne, Australia

Design-driven hotel brand Ovolo has opened the doors to its latest project. And what a colour frenzy awaits.

This new 123-room hotel in the Melbourne suburb of South Yarra exudes retro glamour and disco charm. I stayed in the aptly named ‘Boogie Room’ on the top floor of the hotel. There’s a bold graphic feature wall, offset by an arched bedhead with an even groovier geometric print. Round pendant lights that resemble disco balls drop from the ceiling on either side of the bed. While style nods to the ’70s, designers have seamlessly integrated modern technology into the room. It has Chromecast, Bose Bluetooth speakers, a Smart TV and superspeed Wi-Fi.

The room is also full of personal touches, like the ‘loot bag’ you’ll find on your bed. Mine had a yoga mat, cap and umbrella (à la unpredictable Melbourne weather). My favourite was the mini-bar stocked with free Deakin Estate wines and Moon Dog Lagers, plus late-night snacks.

If you want to pimp your stay, check in to one of the Rockstar Suites – two are dedicated to the golden era’s most famed lyrical lovers, ‘Sonny & Cher’ and ‘John & Yoko’. Whichever you choose, there’s original art by renowned street artist Mr. Brainwash. Each also comes with a personal bar, in true rockstar style.

When it comes to wining and dining, Lona Misa breaks the hotel mould, serving heavily vegan cuisine. Melbourne heavyweights Shannon Martinez (Smith & Daughters) and Ian Curley (French Saloon, Kirk’s Wine Bar) spearheaded the establishment, offering a European-Latin bistro dining experience that celebrates locally sourced ingredients. The menu is full of flavour, with plenty of surprises. Following check in, the first round of happy-hour drinks is on the house.

Want to keep the party going? The basement level offers an edgy event space to host corporate functions. But even if you’re a solo traveller, it’s a great place to unwind and rewind while channelling your ’70s self. There are arcade games, a pool table and a light-up dancefloor. What’s not to like?

Rates start from $209 per room, per night. ovolohotels.com