24 LIFESTYLE lite APRIL 2011 Distractions: buzz FROM LAW TO HOTELS After graduation he returned to Singapore as a corporate litigator but during the economic downturn in the early 2000s and bored by dealing with bankruptcies, he quit the law. “When one door closes, another opens” is an oft quoted saying of Alexander Graham Bell’s, the inventor of the modern telephone. Such is true for Loh. In 2001 he bought Hotel 1929 in Keong Saik Road.The hotel opened in 2003. Since then, he has added the Majestic Hotel in Bukit Pasoh Road in 2008, the Town Hall in London, the Waterhouse in Shanghai last year and finally the recently opened Wanderlust Hotel on Dickson Road.The properties boast a constant aspect – they are boutique hotels but with different themes - interior design being a big drawing point. INTERIORS ARE KEY “Interior design is obviously a major key factor in my hotels,” says Loh. “It’s what sets them apart and I place great importance on it. I try to incorporate many influences and make sure I experience as many hotels as possible to learn as much as I can from other people.” And although many different qualities draw him to a building, when Loh reflects on what he does look for, two factors spring to mind. Loh Lik Peng is a tall, striking figure with an interesting past. A large part of his youth was spent in Ireland and London, and “I really enjoyed it,” says Loh. “It was a special time and an episode I feel shaped me for the rest of my life.” He had a six year “adventure” in an Irish boarding school and says that it was the best decision for his upbringing. He went on to read law and business in London but despite his education, Loh insists life in the UK did not mould him for a career as an hotelier: “I don’t think I ever even thought of being an hotelier.” Boutique hotel entrepreneur Loh Lik Peng, 38, who has hotels here in Asia and Europe offers WONG MUN WAI a lesson in successful business positioning. Check out to Check In 24-25 Lite-Distrations-buzz KHL.indd 24 3/17/11 8:44 PM