Evaluation of the Compatibility Between Poetic Expression and Spatial Form in Suzhou Classical Gardens Based on AHP–TOPSIS and Coupling-Coordination Analysis

Suzhou classical gardens are celebrated for their spatial aesthetics, which embody the concept of painting within poetry, and vice versa.However, existing studies rely heavily on qualitative interpretation, lacking a systematic quantitative evaluation framework.This study aims to develop a quantitative model using AHP-TOPSIS and coupling coordination degree analysis to evaluate the compatibility between spatial configurations and poetic expressions in Suzhou classical gardens.Based on a literature review and semi-structured interviews, a multi-level evaluation system comprising 5 primary and 16 secondary indicators-covering spatial rhythm, water layout, visual organization, and cultural imagery-was established.AHP pairwise comparisons were conducted by experts to determine indicator weights, followed by consistency testing.TOPSIS was applied to 450 valid questionnaire responses to evaluate four representative gardens.The coupling coordination model was then used to assess the compatibility of subsystems.Ethical approval was obtained, and all participants gave informed consent.The Humble Administrator's Garden (D = 0.351) and the Lingering Garden (D = 0.329) showed high coordination across rhythm, nature, and imagery.In contrast, the Lion Grove Garden (D = 0.143) and the Canglang Pavilion (D = 0.178) exhibited weaker performance due to insufficient cultural symbolism or design issues related to circulation.This study provides a scientific basis for the conservation and revitalization of Suzhou gardens, offering evaluative tools for cultural expression in contemporary landscape design that emphasizing the synergy.The focus on Suzhou limits generalizability; future studies should include gardens from diverse regions and cultural backgrounds to enhance the overall understanding.