London Pride 2026!
An installation designed by @studio_oleo and @garethvolka 'Jelly Haven' marched triumphantly through the streets of London to represent LGBTQIA+ architects at the @prideinlondon parade on 4 July.
Responding to this year's @londonfestivalofarchitecture theme of 'Belonging', the installation captured the energy of the community and the Built Environment industry.
The 2026 installation also marked the tenth anniversary of Architecture LGBT+ and its seventh Pride activation. The judging panel included Karl Mok (Pride Float 2025 Winner), Lucy Millichamp (Programme Manager, NLA and LFA), Sarah Habershon (Architecture LGBT+), Thomas Bryans (LFA Curation Panel 2026, Architecture LGBT+), and Tom Guy (Architecture LGBT+).
Designed to resemble a colourful jellyfish floating through the city, 'Jelly Haven' became part of an inclusive celebration that grew more vibrant with every participant. Conceived as a series of inflated, iridescent 'umbrella floats' held aloft and customised by participants, the installation demonstrated how collective strength emerges from individual difference, where everyone has a story and a voice. Inspired by the resilience of the jellyfish, it transformed the parade into a moving landscape of care, belonging and inclusivity. During the march, the float formed a protective canopy, sending a message of solidarity with the trans community.
@tom_guy_ London-based architect, founder of Architecture LGBT+ and director at Guy Piper Architects said: "This year's winning proposal challenged our expectations of what a Pride walking installation could be. Rather than representing architecture through buildings, it celebrates the feelings that great spaces inspire: safety, visibility, connection and, above all, a sense of belonging. The image of jellyfish drifting through central London was playful and deeply memorable. It was a beautiful reminder of the humanity at the heart of design – and we were incredibly excited to bring Jelly Safe Haven to Pride in London 2026."
The installation was organised in partnership between Architecture LGBT+ and the London Festival of Architecture.
