Rafael Viñoly, the architect of the new Stanford Hospital, designated two 35-foot diameter fountains for the building–one at the entrance roundabout, the other in the three-story atrium. Unfortunately, the California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development code preludes this feature in all hospitals. 

CAI advised the Stanford Art Commission to invite New York-based artist, James Carpenter, to offer a proposal. His concept was to convey the feeling of light dancing on water in the sun-filled, three-story atrium. His solution was an enormous glass disc that floats above the terrazzo floor. Jamie worked with John Lewis Glass, to find the one with the best thickness and refractive property. It took a year of experimentation.

During the day, the play of light on the undulating glass subtly animates the spacious atrium; at night the illuminated disc adds serenity to the space.