Historic Autogrill Villoresi Ovest to be Reconstructed by Autumn 2020

The iconic Autogrill Villoresi Ovest, designed by architect Angelo Bianchetti and opened in 1958 along the Milan-Varese highway, is undergoing a 'conservative reconstruction of the original design' that will be completed by autumn 2020. The project, announced by Gruppo Autogrill, aims to modernize the structure with seismic safety upgrades, energy-efficient materials like double-glazed UV-filtering glass, and ceramic coatings that purify the air. The three white arches that define the building will be preserved and fitted with new lighting. The interior will feature a new concept paying homage to the 1958 opening year. The Autogrill is part of a broader Italian highway architecture tradition initiated by Mario Pavesi, inspired by US models. Bianchetti designed dozens of such structures, including the pioneering bridge-restaurant Autogrill Fiorenzuola d'Arda (1959), the first of its kind in Europe. The Villoresi Ovest gained fame after appearing on a 1960s Life magazine cover.