New football stadium in Lugano, Switzerland

The Arena Sportiva is one of the main features of Lugano’s new Sports and Events Complex. The stadium blends into the Cassarate Valley with its horizontal architecture, defined by a large, continuous roof and a transparent perimeter that maintains a visual connection with the landscape and public space.

The bleachers slope down from the main entrance level toward the playing field, minimizing their visual impact. An upper ring organizes spectator flow and ensures a constant connection between the field and the outdoors. The layout separates the pathways for spectators, players, the press, staff, security, and VIP areas.

With a capacity of approximately 8,200 spectators, the stadium is also designed to accommodate other uses and configurations. The structure combines a concrete base with metal columns and a metal roof, while the lightweight envelope enhances the transparency of the complex.

The energy strategy relies on an efficient building envelope, a connection to the urban heat exchange network using water from Lake Lugano, LED lighting, and a large rooftop photovoltaic system. The stadium is thus conceived as a compact, flexible structure closely integrated into the urban context in which it is situated.