The final designs for the national memorial to Queen Elizabeth II have been unveiled at a special event held at the British Museum in London, marking the centenary of her birth. The project honors Britain’s longest-serving monarch and her lifelong dedication to public service, offering a lasting space for reflection and remembrance.
The memorial park has been designed by Foster + Partners, led by architect Norman Foster, in collaboration with landscape firm Michel Desvigne Paysagiste. The vision focuses on creating a calm, contemplative environment that reflects the Queen’s steady leadership during times of profound social and technological change.
Speaking at the event, Norman Foster described the memorial as a place that reaches across generations. He emphasized that the design aims to communicate the values Queen Elizabeth upheld throughout her reign, while also offering visitors a chance to engage with her legacy in a personal way.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer highlighted the national importance of the project, noting that Queen Elizabeth II devoted her life to service. He said the memorial will stand as a tribute to her extraordinary reign and provide a space for future generations to reflect on her impact.
The design includes several symbolic features. A cast-glass bridge, inspired by Queen Mary’s Fringe Tiara, famously worn by Elizabeth on her wedding day, will serve as a central element. Visitors will also encounter a sculpted bust of the Queen in her later years, created by artist Karen Newman.
Another key feature is The Commonwealth Wind Sculpture, an abstract installation by Yinka Shonibare that represents the Commonwealth’s diversity and unity. Complementing this is a compass designed by Norman Foster, intended to symbolize the global connections between Commonwealth nations.
The surrounding landscape will include dedicated gardens representing both the Commonwealth and the nations of the United Kingdom. These spaces are designed to encourage quiet reflection and provide a welcoming environment for visitors.
Two major statues will form a focal point near The Mall at Marlborough Gate. A bronze statue of Queen Elizabeth II, sculpted by Martin Jennings, will depict her in the early years of her reign, dressed in the robes of the Order of the Garter. The design draws inspiration from a well-known portrait by Pietro Annigoni. Nearby, a statue of Prince Philip will stand in recognition of his role as the longest-serving consort, shown in his Admiral-of-the-Fleet uniform.
The memorial has been developed through consultation with the Queen Elizabeth Memorial Committee, following a design competition held the previous year. King Charles III has been involved throughout the process, and the final proposals received the Prime Minister’s approval in April 2026.
Alongside the physical memorial, a digital tribute has also been launched. This online memorial will bring together digitized records from the Court Circular, as well as materials from museums, archives, and media sources, creating a comprehensive record of the Queen’s public life.
To mark the centenary, a new independent charity, The Queen Elizabeth Trust, has also been established. It aims to continue supporting initiatives that reflect the Queen’s commitment to public service.
Members of the public will have the opportunity to view models and detailed plans of the memorial at exhibitions across the United Kingdom. These will be held at the National Galleries of Scotland in Edinburgh, the Millennium Centre in Cardiff, and Hillsborough Castle in Northern Ireland, starting on 24 April.
Image credit: Foster + Partners
