The Ascott has secured a contract to manage its first Somerset-branded serviced residence in Gurgaon.

Slated to open by 2019, the 174-unit Somerset Diplomatic Greens Gurgaon is Ascott’s second serviced residence in the city, after Ascott Ireo City Gurgaon which is scheduled to open in 2017.

The management contract for Somerset Diplomatic Greens Gurgaon was awarded by Puri Constructions, a company focusing on real estate development in northern India.

Tony Soh, Ascott chief corporate officer who oversees the company’s business in India, said: “We see strong growth potential for Ascott in India. By bringing our Somerset brand to Gurgaon through our partnership with Puri Constructions, Ascott’s footprint in India will increase to over 1,400 apartment units in eight serviced residences across five cities.

“Our strategy for India is to expand in high-growth cities where there is significant demand for international-class serviced residences from expatriates, project teams and business travellers.

“Gurgaon is a fast-developing city where a large number of manufacturing, IT and construction companies are based.

“We are confident that our Somerset brand will do well in Gurgaon.”

Soh added: “To further expand Ascott’s network in India, we will continue to seek opportunities for investments, management contracts, leases or franchise agreements. Besides Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad and Gurgaon where we have presence, we are also seeking opportunities in key business cities including Mumbai, New Delhi and Pune.”

Located within a 30-minute drive from the international airport at New Delhi, Somerset Diplomatic Greens Gurgaon shall be the closest serviced residence from the airport.

Arjun Puri, director of Puri Constructions, said: “Puri Constructions is delighted to have The Ascott Limited manage our first serviced residence at Diplomatic Greens.

“Ascott’s service excellence is world renowned.

“Hence, it is undoubtedly the perfect match for Puri Constructions, which has built its reputation on providing uncompromising quality.”

Strategically located next to Dwarka Expressway, Somerset Diplomatic Greens Gurgaon is nestled in the middle of about seven acres of expansive green landscaping, right in the heart of Gurgaon.

The serviced residence will be located next to the retail zone and entertainment hub within the Diplomatic Greens development.

Diplomatic Greens is a 20-acre residential area within an 82-acre integrated development that includes retail and commercial spaces.

Residents will be welcomed by an impressive water feature and a lobby with a double-height ceiling at the serviced residence.

Designed to provide business executives and their families with the comfort of a home, Somerset Diplomatic Greens Gurgaon offers a range of stylish studios, one- and two-bedroom apartments.

Each apartment features a fully-equipped kitchen and separate living and dining areas. The property’s extensive facilities include a private gymnasium, yoga centre, swimming pool, all-day dining restaurant and bar.

In India, Ascott currently operates Somerset Greenways Chennai and Citadines Richmond Bangalore.

Besides Somerset Diplomatic Greens Gurgaon, five more serviced residences are scheduled to open progressively in Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad and Gurgaon by 2017.