Design Competition Launched for Queen Elizabeth II Memorial
To commemorate the remarkable legacy of the United Kingdom’s longest-serving monarch, the government has initiated a design competition aimed at establishing a national memorial for Queen Elizabeth II.
A Collaborative Effort
The Queen Elizabeth Memorial Committee has enlisted Malcolm Reading Consultants to scout a diverse team of professionals. This collaborative group is expected to consist of artists, architects, engineers, landscape architects, and various specialists eager to contribute their expertise toward realizing this significant project. Importantly, one member of the winning team must be an architect registered in the UK.
Phased Competition Process
The first phase invites creative minds to submit expressions of interest via an online platform. At this initial stage, participants are not required to present design proposals; rather, they should provide insights into their team’s makeup and experience. Following this phase, five contenders will be chosen for a ten-week design period in stage two.
Encouraging Creative Narratives
Lord Janvrin, chair of the committee and private secretary to the late queen, highlighted that finalists will face the exciting challenge during stage two: crafting a masterplan that encapsulates memories of Queen Elizabeth II’s remarkable role in British society while narrating her extensive reign through thoughtful design choices attuned to its distinguished locale.
Site Specifications
This national tribute is set to grace St James’s Park in London—esteemed as Britain’s oldest Royal Park and situated adjacent to Buckingham Palace. The competition guidelines emphasize pivotal elements such as designing a new bridge across the park’s lake along with possibilities for artistic features and enhanced landscaping efforts.
A Lasting Legacy
Pat McFadden, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster commented on this initiative by stating that “This National Memorial will serve as an enduring homage to Her Late Majesty’s legacy—creating an area conducive for both contemplation and celebration. We invite exceptional architects and designers to share their visions for how this momentous undertaking should take shape.”
Timeline Overview
The shortlist revealing successful candidates is anticipated in spring 2025 within the UK calendar while naming the final winner is scheduled for early summer 2025. The ultimate design will be unveiled synchronously with what would have been Queen Elizabeth II’s centennial birthday celebration in 2026.
Submit Your Expression of Interest
A detailed outline regarding submissions can be accessed online; note that entries for expressions of interest close on January 20th, 2025.
