For the first time in history, Oxford Street will be launching a global call for the redesign of its world famous Christmas lights.

Oxford Street Light Display Christmas 2017

The launch of Oxford Street’s first Christmas lights over fifty years ago was a revolutionary event.   Oxford Street is now synonymous with Christmas, with many visitors making the trip to the capital so they can glimpse the famous lights while enjoying shopping and leisure time. In 2018, Oxford Street will once again use the power of light to capture the world’s imagination, by encouraging local and international designers to submit their work for the chance to have it featured on an iconic, global stage this festive season.

Oxford Street and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) are calling for experienced lighting designers and architectural specialists from the UK and beyond to enter a global competition to design the most inspiring and innovative Christmas lights.

The competition is being led by New West End Company, in conjunction withWestminster City Council.  An esteemed, innovative panel has been selected to judge the competition. While the full judging panel is still to be revealed, the world class judging panel will include: 

  • Anya Hindmarch, Designer and Trustee of Royal Academy Development Trust
  • Chris Wilkinson, OBE, Director, Wilkinson Eyre and RIBA Adviser
  • Jill Entwhistle, Executive Editor, Lighting Magazine
  • Jace Tyrrell, Chief Executive Officer, New West End Company.

The initial phase of this competition will require lighting designers and architectural specialists, interested in being involved in this first of its kind project, to submit an anonymous design proposal by 26 March 2018.

Four shortlisted designers will then progress to the final round and be given the opportunity to develop their designs and present to the panel. Designers will receive an honoraria payment of £3,000 +VAT for their work in this round.

Following the competition, the chosen winner will bring their design to life on Oxford Street and in the surrounding areas.

Jace Tyrrell, CEO, New West End Company says, “During the festive season, the 40 million visitors who visit London’s West End expect to see a vibrant display of light and colour.

Our global call for concepts for the redesign of Oxford Street’s Christmas lights will ensure that the 2018 display is the most spectacular to date, bringing more visitors than ever to London’s  West End so they can be the first to see the new lights for themselves .”

Chris Wilkinson, OBE, Director, Wilkinson Eyre and RIBA  Adviser says, “This is a great opportunity for designers to present their creative ideas for the Christmas Lighting in the Oxford St District and to make a spectacular show for everyone to enjoy.”

For further information and to enter the competition please visit: www.architecture.com/competitions