The Augusto Rancilio Foundation promotes and supports projects, study and research in the fields of Architecture, Design and Urban Planning. In particular, it invests in new generations of architects and designers. It was established in 1983 in memory of the architect Augusto Rancilio. The Foundation is a legal entity recognised by the Regione Lombardia. Its headquarters is Villa Arconati, one of the most important examples of the Lombard ”Pleasure Villas”, at the centre of the territory of Castellazzo. It is located in the Parco delle Groane and is close to the new Rho-Pero exhibition centre and the Expo 2015 site. Today the Foundation is taking on a new challenge by becoming a reference point for the creative and sustainable development of its surroundings thanks to its new base Villa Arconati and its restoration and development plan.