The Fountain Workshop - Fountain design, build and management
 

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

“The Water Labyrinth” in the South Plaza is a winding ribbon of 195 fountains. Choreographed water jets spring from the paving, daring children to dash through.

The site of the 2012 Summer Olympic Games has been transformed into an urban parkland – one of the largest of its kind in Europe. The South Plaza is designed by James Corner of Field Operations. Its focal point is “The Water Labyrinth”.

The design of the water feature mirrors the form of the landscape, which is planted in gently undulating ribbons. 195 jets burst from the paving from a hidden water source below. The fountains are choreographed in different sequences and heights, tempting children to race through without getting wet – the adults preferring to sit back and watch the fun.

 

Project Facts

  • Location: Stratford, London
  • Client: London Legacy Development Corporation
  • Services: Design, build, management
  • Features: Animated water jets, remote web-based control system
  • Partners: James Corner Field Operations, Willerby Landscapes, Skanska, BAM

Each of the jets has a tiny LED light source that can change colour and intensity in harmony with the water effects. The water feature is linked to a unique web-based control system that allows the fountains to be monitored and controlled remotely via the internet.