A lasting tribute to Britain’s longest-reigning monarch is in the works as finalists reveal visions of a serene, reflective landmark in London’s St. James’s Park.
The United Kingdom is one step closer to honoring Queen Elizabeth II with a national memorial that reflects her extraordinary reign and enduring legacy.
On May 7, the Queen Elizabeth Memorial Committee and the Cabinet Office unveiled five shortlisted design concepts for a national memorial dedicated to the late Queen, who passed away in September 2022 at the age of 96 after 70 years of service as the UK’s monarch. The public exhibition, now live online, offers a unique opportunity for citizens to share feedback until May 19.
Led by Lord Robin Janvrin, Queen Elizabeth’s former private secretary, the committee will review public input before selecting a winning design later this summer. The chosen design is expected to be unveiled in 2026, coinciding with what would have been Queen Elizabeth’s 100th year.
Set to be constructed in St. James’s Park, the proposed memorial will be surrounded by nature and crafted to serve as a space for reflection and remembrance. According to the committee, the site is envisioned as “a national landmark of outstanding quality” celebrating Queen Elizabeth II’s values, dignity, and dedication to public service.
The design brief emphasized emotional resonance, accessibility, and sensitivity to the Grade I-listed park, while also evaluating submissions on visitor experience, placemaking, and value for money.
Among the five finalists is a flower-shaped canopy — a symbolic nod to the Queen’s lifelong association with horticulture and her patronage of the Royal Horticultural Society, including over 50 appearances at the Chelsea Flower Show. That design is from Heatherwick Studio in collaboration with Halima Cassell, MRG Studio, Webb Yates, and Arup.
The other four shortlisted entries come from:
- Foster + Partners with Yinka Shonibare and Michel Desvigne Paysagiste
- J&L Gibbons with Michael Levine RDI, William Matthews Associates, Structure Workshop, and Arup
- Tom Stuart-Smith with Jamie Fobert Architects, Adam Lowe (Factum Arte), and Structure Workshop
- WilkinsonEyre with Lisa Vandy, Fiona Clark, Andy Sturgeon Design, Atelier One, and Hilson Moran
All concepts include bridges, paths, or walkways, offering interactive and contemplative environments that align with the Queen’s symbolic connection to continuity and public engagement.
Additionally, the final memorial will feature a figurative representation of Queen Elizabeth herself. A separate search for a sculptor to collaborate with the chosen design team is expected to conclude later this year.
According to the Court Circular, Prince William met with Lord Janvrin at Windsor Castle on May 1, potentially reviewing the finalist designs ahead of their public release — underscoring the royal family’s involvement in shaping this historic project.
Lord Janvrin emphasized the significance of public participation, stating:
“Queen Elizabeth II’s extraordinary life of service profoundly touched countless individuals… In recognition of this, it is only fitting that we invite the public to express their views on these design concepts.”
“We are working with some of the world’s finest architects and designers to create a landmark of exceptional beauty and meaning.”
The public can view the five finalist designs and submit feedback through the official Queen Elizabeth Memorial webpage before the May 19 deadline.