The Vision for a Lasting Memorial
A groundbreaking design has been chosen for the official memorial of Queen Elizabeth II in London’s St. James’ Park. This unique structure will serve as a tribute to the late monarch, incorporating elements that reflect her life and legacy. The design features a translucent bridge inspired by the tiara she wore on her wedding day, along with landscaped gardens and statues of her husband, Prince Philip.
The winning bid was submitted by architects Foster + Partners, who outperformed four other shortlisted entries. The Cabinet Office announced this decision, highlighting the significance of the project in honoring the Queen’s contributions to the United Kingdom and the global Commonwealth.
A Design That Reflects Unity
The design aims to celebrate the ways in which Queen Elizabeth II united dualities in her life. It emphasizes the balance between tradition and modernity, public duty and private faith, as well as the connection between the United Kingdom and the global Commonwealth. The memorial is intended to be a place where people can reflect on these themes and appreciate the Queen’s enduring legacy.
Foster + Partners’ proposal is designed to blend seamlessly into London’s oldest royal park, which borders three palaces: Westminster, St. James’ Palace, and Buckingham Palace. The firm’s founder, Norman Foster, described the Queen as someone who navigated periods of significant change with a “light touch,” a philosophy that informs the design of the memorial.
A Translucent Bridge Inspired by Tradition
One of the most striking features of the design is the translucent bridge, which echoes the design of the Queen Mary Fringe diamond tiara that Elizabeth wore at her wedding to Prince Philip. This bridge is not only a nod to the Queen’s personal history but also a symbol of the unity and elegance she represented throughout her reign.
The bridge is part of a larger plan that includes gardens, paths, and statues. The design seeks to preserve the existing nature and biodiversity of the park while introducing new elements that enhance the visitor experience. The bridge will replace an existing blue bridge and will have a “very gentle presence at night,” creating a serene and reflective atmosphere.
Preserving the Park’s Natural Beauty
Foster + Partners emphasized their commitment to preserving the natural beauty of St. James’ Park. The bridge’s design avoids heavy building work or large excavations, ensuring that the park remains a vibrant space for both wildlife and visitors. The structure is designed to be almost seamless, hugging the surface of the lake and blending into the landscape.
Construction of the memorial will be carried out in such a way that the precious route across the park will never be closed. This thoughtful approach ensures that the park remains accessible to the public throughout the construction process.
Statues and Public Spaces
In addition to the bridge, the memorial will include statues of the late monarch and Prince Philip. A statue of Queen Elizabeth II will stand at the newly-named Queen Elizabeth II Place beside Marlborough Gate, an existing entrance to the park. A statue of Prince Philip will be located next to a new Prince Philip Gate on the other side of the park. A planned statue of the couple together will also feature in the memorial.
The design also incorporates a contemporary wind sculpture created by artist Yinka Shonibare. This sculpture will feature floral designs inspired by Elizabeth’s coronation gown, adding a unique artistic element to the memorial.
Gardens for Reflection and Connection
The memorial will include gardens representing both the Commonwealth and the UK. These spaces are intended to create areas for reflection and coming together, allowing visitors to connect with the Queen’s legacy in a meaningful way. The gardens will be designed to evoke a sense of tranquility and contemplation, encouraging visitors to engage with the history and significance of the Queen’s reign.
Foster + Partners emphasized that the memorial will aim to create a “gentler, quieter, more contemplative” atmosphere. This environment will provide an opportunity for visitors to rediscover or learn about the legacy of Her Majesty, fostering a deeper appreciation for her contributions to the nation.
Finalizing the Design
The finalized design, which is subject to change while it is refined, will be announced in April 2026 to coincide with the 100th anniversary of the late Queen’s birth. The proposal was selected after a committee considered feedback from the public, stakeholders, and cultural experts.
Other shortlisted designs included a lily pad-inspired walkway, a bronze oak tree, and a pair of gently curved bridges. However, the chosen design by Foster + Partners stands out for its innovative approach and deep connection to the Queen’s legacy.
This memorial will not only honor Queen Elizabeth II but also serve as a lasting testament to her impact on the United Kingdom and the world. It will be a place where people can come together to reflect, remember, and celebrate the life of a remarkable leader.
