Hong Kong is a place brimming with talented and intriguing people. In our new 27 Questions column, we get up close and personal with notable Hong Kong personalities, learning about their whims and aversions, pivotal life moments, and hopes and dreams — all found out in roughly the same time it takes to have a 2-minute speed date.
Since its extensive renovation and brand revamp last year, Eaton HK has swiftly transformed its image from a time-honoured family hotel in Jordan to more than a neighbourhood landmark: It’s a bona fide social platform, brimming with possibilities for independent artists, social entrepreneurs and changemakers. It’s become known for its evocative art and wellness programme and hip, gourmet offerings all aimed at the local community — and also, a fantastic terrace bar featuring eclectic DJs and bands most nights.
Activism and advocacy for a range of progressive issues are at the heart of all of Eaton’s programming — something yet to be explored in Hong Kong’s hospitality industry. Tomorrow Maybe, an independent art gallery aimed at emerging artists, facilitated the first-ever Human Rights Art Prize presented by the hotel — this year awarded to Ophelia Jacarini, who creates textile-based art depicting feminine strength in the face of violence. This month, Eaton HK also honours Pride Month with a series of events ranging from an art exhibition on queer body image, to a celebration on the historic Stonewall Riots with a film screening as well as live music performances.
At the helm of all this is none other than Katherine Lo — founder and president of the Eaton Workshop umbrella, which comprises the property itself, a sister hotel in Washington D.C. (where Lo is currently based), as well as the co-working space arm, Eaton House. While the former Eaton Hotel initially belonged to her father Lo Ka-shui’s real estate empire Great Eagle Holdings, Katherine’s deft transformation of the brand from hotel to a real conversation starter proves that she is a rising cultural force to be reckoned with.
To learn a little bit more about this creative hospitality magnate with a soft spot for culture — read our 27 Questions interview with Lo below.
Name: Katherine Lo
Age: 37
Neighbourhood: Jordan
Occupation: Founder & President, Eaton Workshop
“Follow your bliss” — Joseph Campbell
It was at a ho fun noodle shop near Diocesan Girls’ School in Jordan where I went to school, and near Eaton HK. I used to visit with my mother.
Virginia Woolf.
It was an internship at The Standard newspaper in Hong Kong.
I’m within walking distance to the beach.
Night owl.
Uber.
Broccoli. I know that’s an unusual answer!
Not going on tour with a band I was in during college.
The crowds.
College.
Failure.
“Sorry to Bother You”, written and directed by Boots Riley.
Beach, yoga, dog walk.
Berlin.
In the Aeroplane Over the Sea by 90’s indie band Neutral Milk Hotel.
The ocean.
Hiking in Hong Kong with my family.
Bergamot.
Too many to count.
I think so! I’m good at making Mediterranean salads.
I prepare my meals at least 5 days a week.
Cold pressed apple, lemon and ginger juice.
Miss Robinson — my high school teacher. She taught me how to question things.
Yes. I was 19 and that’s all you need to know.
I’ve been to almost all of the continents except Antarctica and I’ve travelled to too many countries to count.
I lost my dogs. It was a horrible dream.
Evelyn Lok
Managing Editor
When not trying out the latest beauty and wellness trends, Evelyn is likely enjoying a perfectly balanced negroni or exploring some of Hong Kong's best new places to eat and drink. At Lifestyle Asia she covers everything from the biggest events in town to interviews with Hong Kong specialists, with topics spanning art, food and drink, health, tech, and travel.
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