Foster + Partners Wins Design for Queen Elizabeth II National Memorial in London
In a move that reflects the global recognition of Queen Elizabeth II’s enduring legacy through the Queen Elizabeth memorial design, the Queen Elizabeth II National Memorial Committee has announced Foster + Partners as the winning design team for the new national memorial in St. James’s Park, London.
The project aims to honor the queen’s long and dedicated life of service while offering a public space that inspires reflection and connection. The Queen Elizabeth memorial design is meant for visitors of all ages and backgrounds. The final design is set to be unveiled in April 2026, the year that would have marked her 100th birthday.
A Vision Bridging Tradition and Modernity
The concept focuses on the era of Queen Elizabeth’s reign—a time that seamlessly connected heritage with progress. The Queen Elizabeth memorial design by Foster + Partners chose to reflect this duality through a design that blends formality with simplicity , and tradition with modernity .
Key elements of the proposal include:
- A new bridge inspired by the Queen’s wedding tiara
- A gate named after Prince Philip , the late Duke of Edinburgh
- Two gardens symbolizing the Commonwealth nations
- Figurative sculptures and art installations celebrating the UK’s cultural diversity
Notably, the current Blue Bridge in St. James’s Park will be replaced by the new tiara inspired structure, with continuous access maintained throughout construction to ensure minimal disruption to park visitors.
Five Teams Competed in Final Stage
After a rigorous selection process, five internationally renowned teams reached the final stage of the competition. They were asked to create a masterplan that honored the Queen’s lifelong dedication to public service. The plans had to offer meaningful spaces for reflection as part of the Queen Elizabeth memorial design.
Here’s an overview of the finalist teams:
| Team | Specialty |
|---|---|
| Foster + Partners | Global architecture and innovative concepts |
| Heatherwick Studio | Creative and iconic design |
| J&L Gibbons | Landscape and environmental design |
| Tom Stuart-Smith | Expertise in gardens and outdoor spaces |
| Wilkinson Eyre | Modern architecture and technical innovation |
Each submission was judged on its ability to reflect the Queen’s values, integrate with the park, and resonate with a broad audience.
How Norman Foster Explained the Concept
Norman Foster, founder of the firm, shared his personal reflections on working with the Queen through the Queen Elizabeth memorial design:
I knew Her Majesty in formal settings, but I also appreciated her warmth and informality at more personal events. We wanted our design to capture both sides of her character something that feels respectful yet accessible, timeless yet fresh.
He added that the team aimed to gently push the boundaries of art and technology. They wanted to do so without disrupting the natural harmony of the park or its biodiversity.
What Convinced the Jury?
The committee praised the balance between formal and informal spaces, as well as the thoughtful integration of art and landscape. The team’s strong technical execution was notable. The inclusion of artists like Yinka Shonibare and landscape designer Michel Desvigne brought depth and a modern, inclusive vision to the Queen Elizabeth memorial design project.
Next Steps in the Process
Now that Foster + Partners has won the competition, the firm will work closely with the memorial committee to refine the Queen Elizabeth memorial design. They will begin choosing an artist to create the figurative sculptures that will be central to the memorial.
Foster + Partners expects to officially reveal the full design in April 2026. This will coincide with what would have been the Queen’s centenary year. It will be accompanied by a broader legacy program celebrating her impact on the UK and the world.
Timeline of Key Project Milestones
| Milestone | Expected Date |
|---|---|
| Winning design announced | June 2025 |
| Refining initial concept | 2025 – 2026 |
| Final design reveal | April 2026 |
| Start of construction | TBA |
| Expected opening | TBA |
✦ ArchUp Editorial Insight
This article outlines Foster + Partners’ winning design for the Queen Elizabeth II National Memorial in London. The visuals highlight a tiara-inspired bridge, formal gardens symbolizing the Commonwealth, and sculptural elements that reflect cultural identity and spatial harmony. While the concept elegantly bridges tradition and modernity, it lacks detailed discussion on sustainability or long-term environmental impact. Still, its artistic integration and symbolic narrative offer a fresh perspective on commemorative architecture. It positions it as a meaningful addition to contemporary memorial design discourse.
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