Foster + Partners has won the competition to design the national memorial to Queen Elizabeth II in St James’ Park, London.
The winning design celebrates the Queen’s life through two gates and two gardens connected by a bridge and a unifying path, reflecting themes of tradition and innovation, public duty and private faith, and the UK alongside the Commonwealth.
Foster + Partners, working with artist Yinka Shonibare and landscape architect Michel Desvigne, propose a tranquil garden with a sound installation featuring the Queen’s voice.
Courtesy of Foster + Partners, Yinka Shonibare and Michel Desvigne Studio.
The memorial will include figurative sculptures, a new Prince Philip Gate, and gardens dedicated to communities across the UK and Commonwealth. A new glass bridge will replace the existing Blue Bridge, featuring a balustrade inspired by the Queen’s wedding tiara—a symbol of her unifying role.
Courtesy of Foster + Partners, Yinka Shonibare and Michel Desvigne Studio.
Norman Foster said, “At the heart of our masterplan is a translucent bridge, symbolizing Her Majesty as a unifying force bringing together nations, communities, and organizations.”
The panel selected Foster + Partners’ design concept from a shortlist of proposals by five leading multidisciplinary teams. During the competition the public were encouraged to give their views on the design concepts to commemorate the UK’s longest reigning Monarch.
The Committee also consulted experts in arts, heritage, architecture, structural engineering, placemaking and accessibility to find the best concept to honour Queen Elizabeth.
Committee Chair Robin Janvrin said:“Selecting the winner was no easy task. All five of the shortlisted teams produced creative designs of the highest quality.”
The memorial is expected to be completed by 2026, marking the Queen’s centenary.
Courtesy of Foster + Partners, Yinka Shonibare and Michel Desvigne Studio.
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Cover image: Courtesy of Foster + Partners, Yinka Shonibare and Michel Desvigne Studio.
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