Finalists Revealed for Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Design Competition

Designing a memorial to honor the legacy of Queen Elizabeth II is no small feat. The world has its eyes on the creative visionaries competing for this prestigious project.

Five exceptional teams have been shortlisted for this monumental task. These teams include globally renowned studios Foster + Partners and Heatherwick Studio. Each team brings together architects, artists, and landscape designers to create a reflective space in St James’s Park, near Buckingham Palace, celebrating the late monarch’s life.

Let’s explore what makes this competition a historic event in the world of architecture and design, and what lies ahead for the chosen team.

Meet the Visionaries Behind the Finalists

The design competition, managed by Malcolm Reading Consultants, attracted numerous entries from across the globe. The shortlist of five teams is rich with expertise and collaboration, featuring some of the most innovative names in architecture, art, and landscape design.

Foster + Partners with Yinka Shonibare and Michel Desvigne

Led by the legendary Sir Norman Foster, this team combines architectural innovation with cultural artistry. The addition of British-Nigerian artist Yinka Shonibare and French landscape architect Michel Desvigne ensures a multidimensional approach to the memorial. They blend symbolic storytelling with thoughtful spatial design.

Heatherwick Studio with Halima Cassell and MRG Studio

Heatherwick Studio teams up with sculptor Halima Cassell and the accomplished landscape architects at MRG Studio. Together, they aim to strike a balance between modern artistry and natural harmony, all while crafting a contemplative environment.

Other Finalists: WilkinsonEyre, J&L Gibbons with William Matthews Associates, and Tom Stuart-Smith with Jamie Fobert Architects

While Foster + Partners and Heatherwick Studio may steal headlines, the other finalists bring equally impressive credentials to the table:

• WilkinsonEyre: Renowned for architectural marvels like the Gateshead Millennium Bridge, their inclusion signals an emphasis on structural elegance.
• J&L Gibbons with William Matthews Associates: This team merges expertise in landscape architecture and structural innovation, likely focusing on ecological integration.
• Tom Stuart-Smith with Jamie Fobert Architects: With a reputation for pioneering garden design and distinctive architectural projects, this pairing promises a design steeped in both nature and structure.

The Vision for Queen Elizabeth II’s Memorial

Tasked with creating a space of reflection and celebration, these teams face a tall order. The memorial’s location next to Buckingham Palace in St James’s Park sets the stage for a design that must seamlessly complement its historic surroundings while making a clear statement of its own.

Entrants were required to submit a detailed 12-page expression of interest to make it this far, outlining their vision and approach. Now, each shortlisted team will develop a masterplan, ensuring its design captures the essence of Queen Elizabeth II’s life, legacy, and contributions to the nation.

Key Details of the Competition

Here are some notable highlights about the process:

• Honorarium: Each finalist receives a £50,000 honorarium for completing their plans in this stage.
• Design Timeline: The winning design will be announced in summer 2025. The final unveiling of the memorial is planned for April 2026, commemorating what would have been the Queen’s 100th birthday.
• Budget: The project carries an estimated budget of £23–46 million, reflecting its monumental significance.
• Artistic Addition: An artist will be integrated into the winning team to create a figurative representation of Queen Elizabeth II, adding a deeply personal touch to the final piece.

What the Memorial Will Mean for the Public

This memorial will be more than just an architectural landmark; it will be a place of reflection for millions who wish to honor Queen Elizabeth II’s life of service. St James’s Park, already a cherished spot in London, will gain an additional layer of cultural and historical importance, cementing it as a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists.

Moreover, this endeavor highlights the evolving nature of modern memorial design. Today’s monuments are not merely sculptures or plaques; they are immersive experiences that connect people to history, evoke emotion, and encourage contemplation.

Anticipation Builds for the Winning Design

The announcement of the winning design in summer 2025 will undoubtedly be a moment of excitement and intrigue. The chosen concept will be revealed to the world.

With such outstanding talent in contention, the competition represents the very best in architecture, art, and design working collaboratively to create history.

As we await the final reveal in April 2026, one thing is certain: this memorial will stand as a testament to Queen Elizabeth II’s enduring legacy and the profound mark she made on Britain and beyond.

At the same time, it will serve as a powerful example of how architectural and design brilliance can translate human emotion into timeless structures, inspiring generations to come.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Foster and Heatherwick among finalists for Queen Elizabeth II memorial