Designers of new tribute once clashed with Charles over modern architecture
A long-awaited update on the national memorial for Queen Elizabeth II has been officially released, marking a major step forward in honouring the late monarch. The Royal Household and U.K. government confirmed that the winning design, chosen from five shortlisted proposals, will be developed by Foster + Partners—a firm that previously had tensions with King Charles.
The memorial, set to be unveiled in 2026 to coincide with what would have been the Queen's 100th birthday year, will be located in St James’s Park in London. The tribute will feature both Queen Elizabeth II and her late husband, Prince Philip, in a traditional sculptural setting.
While the decision has been warmly welcomed by many, it has also brought back memories of a past clash between King Charles—then the Prince of Wales—and architect Lord Norman Foster. The two had public disagreements over modern architectural styles, with Charles famously criticising Foster’s involvement in the Chelsea Barracks development. The dispute even led to a legal challenge over alleged behind-the-scenes royal influence.
Despite the history, relations appear to have improved. After Charles became monarch, Lord Foster extended an olive branch, expressing interest in engaging in dialogue about architectural progress with the King.
The Queen Elizabeth Memorial Committee, a joint initiative between the government and the Royal Household, made the final decision, with King Charles fully informed of the outcome. The project now moves into its next phase, offering a dignified tribute to Britain’s longest-serving monarch—designed by a figure who once stood at odds with her son.
