Illuminated River: 6 finalists for London's Thames lighting project

The Illuminated River competition in London has selected six finalist teams from a pool of 105 submissions to light up 17 bridges along the Thames by 2018, backed by a budget of £20 million. Among the finalists are British architects Amanda Levete, David Adjaye, and Sam Jacob (in collaboration with Simon Heijdens), French lighting experts Les Éclairagistes Associés (with Federico Pietrella), and New York-based firms Diller Scofidio + Renfro and Leo Villareal (partnered with Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands). Levete's concept highlights tidal variations; Adjaye involves artists for each bridge; Jacob and Heijdens propose a seamless light volume; Les Éclairagistes focus on multicultural themes; Diller Scofidio harmonizes urban rhythm with nature; Villareal connects the bridges through color modulation. The designs will be exhibited at the Royal Festival Hall until November 29, with the winner to be revealed on December 8.