Foster + Partners Selected to Design Queen Elizabeth II Memorial in London

Foster + Partners, the renowned architectural firm, has been chosen to design a national memorial for Queen Elizabeth II, which will be located in the historic St James’s Park in London. The announcement was made on June 24, 2025, with plans for the memorial to reflect the late monarch's legacy amidst a rapidly changing world, balancing the nuances of tradition and modernity.

The winning design concept emphasizes Queen Elizabeth's life and her role as a unifying figure for both the United Kingdom and the global Commonwealth. The memorial features two gates and two distinct gardens connected by a bridge and a unifying pathway, symbolizing the dualities of her public and private life. Norman Foster, the founder and executive chairman of Foster + Partners, expressed his honor in leading this meaningful project, stating, "Her Majesty loved history and tradition, so this is reflected in the inspiration of the original design of St James’s Park by Sir John Nash."

Foster elaborated on the design's approach to intertwining formal and informal elements, aiming to appeal to a broad audience. The design integrates art and technology while ensuring minimal disruption to the park's existing nature and biodiversity. A translucent bridge will be a centerpiece of the design, symbolizing Queen Elizabeth's role in uniting various nations, charities, and the armed forces.

Robin Janvrin, Chair of the Queen Elizabeth Memorial Committee, praised the ambitious nature of Foster + Partners' proposal, highlighting its focus on continuity and change throughout the Queen's reign. The design will include figurative sculptures and a new Prince Philip Gate, along with gardens dedicated to the Commonwealth and local communities, fostering spaces for reflection and togetherness.

The location of St James’s Park is not only historically significant, but it also holds personal connections to Queen Elizabeth II, making it an appropriate choice for the memorial. The project will replace the existing Blue Bridge with a new structure featuring a cast-glass balustrade inspired by the Queen's wedding tiara.

The selection panel was particularly impressed by the artistry, spatial use, and technical proficiency exhibited in the proposed design. Foster + Partners will collaborate closely with the Queen Elizabeth Memorial Committee to refine the initial concept and select a sculptor for the memorial's figurative elements. The final design is set to be unveiled in April 2026, coinciding with what would have been Queen Elizabeth’s 100th birthday, alongside a legacy program to honor her contributions.

As the project progresses, it is anticipated to become an enduring landmark that will resonate with future generations, celebrating Queen Elizabeth's service and values throughout her long reign. The memorial aims to encapsulate the essence of a monarch who navigated through times of great change while upholding strong principles of duty and optimism.