The foundation stone has been laid at UEFA's new administrative building in Nyon, Switzerland.

Symbolic ceremony
The ceremony was attended by UEFA President Michel Platini, members of the UEFA Executive Committee and representatives of the town of Nyon. Mr Platini and Executive Committee members placed football souvenirs within the foundation stone's structure before the UEFA President symbolically dug the first spadeful of cement.

High ecological standards
The building is being constructed on a plot of land opposite the House of European Football in Nyon, on the banks of Lake Geneva, and will enable UEFA to bring together some of its staff members who are based at different sites. The plans chosen make provision for a 6,000 metre squared building spread over four levels. Circular in shape, the new building meets high ecological and environmental standards. It will accommodate 200 members of staff.

Energy considerations
UEFA's new building has been designed by the Bassi & Carella architects' firm. In its choice of site, form and appearance, the planned new UEFA office building shows energy-linked considerations. Its round shape, open-air courtyard, and reduced, regular width allow natural light to be used to a maximum. The denser tree cover and the adjustable eves filter direct sunlight and consequently greatly reduce the need for energy to cool the building in summer. In winter, in contrast, direct sunlight can be used to heat the building. Curtains will only be fitted inside the building to prevent glare.

Renewable energy use
The aim is for the building to meet the Minergie (low energy) and Minergie Eco (eco-friendly construction) norms. All considerations are based on a desire to provide energy for the building through its architecture. The use of ecologically sustainable energy production systems is essential, so the use of renewable energy such as sunlight forms a fundamental part of the plans.