So *this* is Suzhou's aesthetic? 🤨

[Ada Muller]

Alright, let's be real, who among us doesn’t feel that Suzhou could put a bit more effort into the aesthetics of some of its newer public spaces? I’m talking to you, public spaces team!

• There’s this entity known as the 'New Era Civilization Practice Center' ('Xīnshídài Wénmíng Shíjiàn Zhōngxīn').
  • Some quick context for my out-of-town friends: "Gū Sū" is the ancient and charming name for Suzhou. These 'New Era Civilization Practice Centers' are essentially new community hubs, and sometimes they even feature small coffee shops or snack areas. That's certainly an interesting concept in theory.
• But let’s be honest—these centers have been around for quite some time now, and I can’t help wondering if perhaps they could seek guidance from some individuals at an art institute. A professional designer could give these locations a fresher feel, one that’s both more globally appealing and just generally more aesthetically pleasing.
• It’s genuinely puzzling that an opportunity to merge Suzhou’s renowned beauty, which is referred to locally as the city’s 'cultural and tourism aesthetic' ('wénlǚ shěnměi'), with such contemporary community venues has seemingly slipped through our fingers.

And now for a bit of insider knowledge, or maybe just another one of our local complaints:

• Friendly Advisory: If you happen upon a newer public structure and find that the design leaves much to be desired, don’t think you’re the only one with such thoughts.
  • It appears that when ordinary people—who we refer to as 'everyday citizens' ('lǎo bǎixìng')—comment on the less appealing aspects of the designs, their feedback often does not result in significant modifications. The relevant authorities, such as the Suzhou Culture & Tourism Bureau ('Wénlǚjú'), may nod in acknowledgment, yet many times, no concrete actions follow.
  • Dealing with this: Frankly, keep in mind that this is a commonly discussed topic within our local community. This won't diminish Suzhou's charm, but it could become one of those conversations you exchange with local residents about a certain building or space that didn’t quite meet expectations.

[Dr. Wade Boyer]

It's the same old ridiculous rule; more decent restaurants don't bother putting these things up.

[Sylvia Franecki]

Seriously, hardly anyone eats game meat in a coffee shop, right?

[Miss Alison Collier]

That's pretty good.

[Carmen Willms]

They've posted something in the coffee shop that has very little to do with coffee, seriously.