The competition for a designer to design the national memorial to Queen Elizabeth II has entered a crucial phase.
The government deadline for teams interested in designing the monument is approaching. The monument in the heart of London is intended to be a lasting tribute to Queen Elizabeth II and is described by the government as “one of the most significant design projects in recent British history”.
It will be located in St. James' Park near Buckingham Palace. It will be adjacent to the Mall at Marlborough Gate and the area surrounding the path to the lake, including the Blue Bridge and across to Birdcage Walk.
There is a special committee overseeing the creation of the memorial, and they said they wanted it to be “an emotionally powerful place” that included “ceremonial spaces as well as areas to encourage reflection.”
They started the first phase of the competition in December. They are currently inviting architect-led multidisciplinary teams to apply for the project.
Interested parties do not have to submit specific designs yet, but must submit full details of the team they would assemble to create the monument by January 20, 2025. The final design team is expected to include artists, engineers and architects.
After the deadline, five teams will be selected for the final phase. A ten-week design phase will then begin to develop ideas for the memorial before a plan is selected.
The winner in April 2026 on the occasion of the 100th birthday of Queen Elizabeth II. A final decision will be made by King Charles III. and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer contribute.
The committee is chaired by former private secretary to Queen Elizabeth II, Lord Janvrin, who said: “We want to attract the best teams of architects, artists, landscape architects, engineers and other specialists to work with us to create an outstanding design for the memorial. We are looking for teams who clearly understand and identify with our ambitions for the project.”
Looking to the future, Lord Janvrin added “t.”The memorial must – simply – be a beautiful place, a place to visit with family and friends, to enjoy and reflect on an extraordinary life.”
The deadline for entries is January 20, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. Applications can be submitted online at the dedicated competition website – Queen Elizabeth II National Memorial Masterplan Design Competition.