Contemplate for a moment the life of a princess. That princess is embodied in the Diana Memorial Fountain. It stands as a tribute to Diana, Princess of Wales, who tragically died in a car crash in 1997.
The Diana Memorial Fountain isn’t just a fountain. It’s a symbol of Diana’s spirit and her love for children. You’ll find it nestled in the southwest corner of Hyde Park. It sits gracefully south of the Serpentine lake and east of the Serpentine Gallery.
Its story began in September 2003. This was when the cornerstone was laid. Queen Elizabeth II officially opened it on July 6, 2004. The event brought together significant figures in Diana’s life. Her brother Charles Spencer, her ex-husband Prince Charles, and her sons Prince William and Prince Harry were all present.
The design process started in 2001. Gustafson Porter designed the fountain. The project cost £3.6 million. Kathryn Gustafson wanted the fountain to be accessible. She wanted it to reflect Diana’s inclusive personality.
The mechanical and electrical design fell to Ocmis Ltd. They worked with Gustafson Porter to design the pumping equipment. Scale models were even constructed to achieve the desired water effects.
The Diana Memorial Fountain is made of 545 individual pieces of Cornish granite. S. McConnell & Sons cut these pieces in Northern Ireland. The pieces were then shipped to England.
The memorial resembles a large oval stream bed. It measures about 50 by 80 meters. Lush grass surrounds the granite stream bed. Water is pumped to the top. It flows down either side. One side descends smoothly with gentle ripples. The other features steps, rills, and curves. The two sides symbolize different aspects of Diana’s life. Happy times and turmoil.
Initially, people could wade and contemplate in the water. However, the fountain closed after several people slipped. It reopened in August 2004 with a new fence. Wardens prevented people from walking in the water.
Even with limited access, the grass suffered damage. Drainage work was undertaken in December 2004. New surfaces were laid and special rye grass was planted.
The Diana Memorial Fountain is more than just water and stone. It’s a reminder of a beloved princess. It symbolizes her life’s journey. The happy and sad times. It invites reflection on a life that touched so many. It is accessible for all to experience.