Angelini Design has taken the line "Italian Technology in China: A Bridge Between Two Cultures" from the short film screened at the pavilion as a central concept in the design. With this idea in mind, the famous tourist landmarks of the Suzhou Bridge in China and the Rialto Bridge in Venice, Italy, have been united in the main pavilion backdrops to reinforce the cultural exchange between the two countries. Blocks of color in line with the bridges represent modern city buildings, and therefore development. In contrast, the shapes under the bridge represent the bodies of water in the two cities, bringing them together symbolically.
The pavilion ceiling and panels combine Italian arches with the classic geometry of Chinese gardens: elements that strongly represent the heritage of both countries. Light, bright colors reflect the richness and vivacity of the two cultures. The backdrops for ENIT (the Italian Government Tourist Board) match the colors of the main pavilion backdrops, bringing harmony to the overall design.
Angelini Design also designed the area for the Chamber of Commerce who represented the Italian industries in Suzhou. The city hosts over 170 Italian companies, making it the most important industrial district for Italy outside of Europe, contributing significantly to the cultural exchange in Suzhou. The backdrop highlights this exchange with images representing the diversity of these Italian industries, including advanced mechanics, electronics, automotive, medical, textile, chemical, cosmetics, and services.
While Italy and China are different in many ways, Angelini Design has highlighted their similarities and shared interests in the key visuals in a way that pays honor to the fertile ground for teamwork for which Suzhou has become known.
