In the vibrant landscape of Thai business and culture, few figures embody the seamless fusion of tradition and innovation quite like Nunthinee Tanner. Known affectionately as “Madame Kian Gwan,” she stands as a testament to the power of pursuing one’s passions while honoring historical legacy. Alongside her husband Ronald Tanner—grandson of the legendary Oei Tiong Ham—she has emerged as a transformative force in Thailand’s business and cultural spheres.
As Managing Director of LBG Limited, Tanner oversees a diverse portfolio of luxury brands including Burberry, Thalgo, and Valmont in Thailand. Her business acumen extends to managing Paris Spas and expanding the Metropolitan Museum of Art store to three locations. However, her most significant contribution to Bangkok’s landscape is the visionary 140 Wireless project, a premium office building that represents a milestone in the Kian Gwan legacy.
The 140 Wireless building, designed by renowned Swiss architectural firm Herzog & de Meuron, stands as a testament to Tanner’s ability to blend heritage with innovation. This modern cultural hub houses Thailand’s first antique piano museum. Khun Nunthinee takes immense pride in the uniqueness of her collection. “Each one is over 100 to 200 years old,” she explains. “I had to bid on them, and the piano strings are still original. The proportions, shapes, natural wood grain, and intricate carvings on the piano legs, music stands, and other components reflect the craftsmanship of ancient artisans who created pianos as both musical instruments and exquisite furniture.”
Among the museum’s most prized pieces is a harpsichord from 1782, an instrument that predates the modern piano and holds an esteemed place in Baroque music history. Built by Burkat Shudi and Johannes Broadwood, the harpsichord is said to have been played by Mozart in Austria. Now 242 years old, it remains a testament to the enduring beauty and significance of these historical instruments.
Beyond her business achievements, Tanner has carved out a unique place in Thai sporting history as the country’s first female polo player. Her passion for equestrian sports began at age 14, and she has since become an active promoter of polo in Thailand. Together with Harold Link, Chairman of the B Grimm group of companies, she co-founded the Thai Polo and Equestrian Club near Pattaya in 2005—a world-class facility spanning over 2,000 rai of meticulously landscaped grounds.
The club stands as Asia’s largest multi-functional polo and equestrian operation, featuring three international-standard polo fields, two practice grounds, and stabling for over 200 horses. Its facilities include state-of-the-art veterinary and quarantine services, managed by an international team of professionals from Argentina, France, and Britain.
Tanner’s commitment to giving back to society is evident in her various charitable initiatives. She co-founded the Queen’s Cup Pink Polo Tournament, now in its sixteenth year, which raises funds for the Queen Sirikit Centre for Breast Cancer. Additionally, she helps organize the Asian Beach Polo Championship in Hua Hin, supporting the Kamlangjai Project—a rehabilitation program for female inmates and their children.
Her dedication to culture and heritage is perhaps most visible in the unique touches she brings to her projects. The “Chukka Bar” at the Thai Polo and Equestrian Club features the original bar and memorabilia from London’s famous Langham Hotel polo lounge, which Tanner personally acquired and transported to Thailand. This attention to historical preservation mirrors her commitment to maintaining the legacy of Kian Gwan while pushing boundaries for future generations.
“Whatever I do, I start with what I love. If I enjoy it, I’ll put my best effort into it,” Tanner often says, embodying a philosophy that has guided her diverse achievements. Whether it’s preserving historical instruments, promoting women in sports, or leading business innovations, her approach combines passionate dedication with purposeful action.
Together with her husband Ronald, Nunthinee Tanner continues to steward the Kian Gwan legacy while forging new paths in business, culture, and philanthropy. From the polo fields of Pattaya to the gleaming towers of Wireless Road, her influence has helped shape modern Thailand while honoring its rich heritage. Through her various endeavors, she demonstrates that innovation and tradition need not be at odds—they can instead create something greater than the sum of their parts.