Its mission is "to promote knowledge of and deep engagement with all aspects of the art, history and culture of Italy by scholars and fine artists from Britain and the Commonwealth, and to foster international and interdisciplinary exchange.

[1] In 2002, a purpose-built lecture theatre and gallery spaces, designed by Hugh Petter and sponsored by the Sainsbury family, were opened by Princess Alexandra.

[2] The BSR is immediately adjacent to the Villa Borghese gardens and the Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Moderna.

The BSR awards residential scholarships and fellowships to artists and scholars from the Commonwealth for periods of three to twelve months.

[11] It receives financial support from the British Academy, award sponsors, private donors and its membership,[12] and is a registered charity under English law.