November Nerikomi

Highlights

In Japanese, neri means to mix and komi means to press; together, nerikomi is a ceramic technique known for its intricate patterns that are formed within the clay itself. At Moon this month, in addition to installing ceramic tiles and natural stone, the naturally formed limestone blocks used to cover the Moon pool are unique and beautiful with varying patterns, much like nerikomi ceramics.

The process of creating nerikomi is slow and methodical, requiring patience, planning, and attention to detail. Similarly, the process of applying tile begins with planning the layout and right-sizing the tiles, before mixing and applying glue, then pressing each tile into place (usually with a mallet). The Moon infinity pool required tiles to be perfectly cut to fit around each part of the surface and the overflow area. The limestone blocks, imported from India especially for Moon, require special tools to cut because the rock is formed in layers, typically in shallow marine environments. Without these tools on the island, Moon’s founder Paolo saved the day again by using water to create a smooth cut for each tile (short video below).

Now, with all stone, concrete, and tile work completed, construction is officially done at Moon! The remaining electrical work and installations require imported materials that are in route.

Though the process of construction has been slow, it has been methodical — with a great deal of planning, complete only because of Moon’s founder’s presence every day of construction, always paying careful attention to each detail. Just as nerikomi ceramics are unique because the pattern runs all the way through the form instead of just being applied as decoration, Moon feels like a luxurious oasis because of focused attention and the highest quality materials used from beginning to end. The energy that’s put into a creation is always felt.

Arriving at this point of completion has required superhuman patience, and we appreciate your patience as we do everything we can to open as soon as possible. We look forward to welcoming you to Moon very soon! Until then, we welcome you to walk through Moon with us here.