The debate between the familiar and innovation is ever present in London. This unique Memorial to Diana, Princess of Wales was opened in July 2004. Highly controversial as a memorial, the design by American landscape architect Kathryn Gustafson is a swirling, low oval loop of white granite set near the Serpentine pond in Hyde Park. The fountain contains 545 pieces of stone - each shaped by computer-controlled machines, but pieced together using traditional skills. The design aims to reflect Diana's life - water flows from the highest point in two directions as it cascades, swirls, and bubbles before meeting in a calm pool at the bottom. Most Londoners don't like it and criticize its lack of grandeur; critics have called it a "moat without a castle" and a "puddle without a middle." Gustafson's design, despite a lack of grandeur, reflects the Princess's sense of accessibility and projects itself as an elegant and restrained necklace of water.
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