Juhana Isohanni has lived in Sompasaari since late 2018. From his previous home in Merihaka, he has been following the area’s development for years. The rapidly developing Kalasatama continues to grow, which has a variety of impacts on local residents.
When and why did you move to the Kalasatama area?
I moved to Sompasaari in late 2018. There were many reasons for the move: a modern environment, a new and carefree lifestyle, state-of-the-art building technology, and a variety of features that make everyday living easier. I previously lived in Merihaka for 15 years, and I’ve been following the development of the Kalasatama area for a long time. It’s very interesting to follow the progress of this new neighborhood as it takes shape and evolves into a residential area.
How have you been enjoying the area?
I’ve been enjoying it very much, and my overall impression is quite positive. Of course, every area has its own challenges. In a developing area, construction work sometimes makes getting around a bit difficult, but when I remind myself of the bigger picture—where the area is headed over the years—those minor daily delays don’t seem to matter much. I would hope, however, that planners remember that the area should be developed with everyone in mind, including future modes of transportation.
What’s the best thing about Kalasatama?
Kalasatama is a perfect fit for me in terms of location: it’s easy enough to get to the places I need to go from here using various modes of transportation. At the same time, the services of the eastern downtown area are within walking distance. Nature is also nearby, and I often go jogging in Mustikkamaa, for example.
I also make good use of local services: I go to Redi weekly, and that’s where I do over 90 percent of my daily grocery shopping. I also actively take advantage of the area’s restaurants.
“I think it’s in everyone’s best interest when new developments are built in the area and events are organized here.”
— Juhana Isohanni, resident member of Palvelu 2 Oy
What areas in the neighborhood could be improved?
Like Jätkäsaari, there is no existing tree cover here, and the new vegetation doesn’t seem to be taking root properly. I’d like to see a bit more of nature here. We could make better use of the proximity to the sea: for example, we could bring swimming opportunities, such as swimming spots and winter swimming spots, to the area.
The area’s identity could also be improved to some extent. In my opinion, it’s in everyone’s best interest when new buildings are constructed in the area and events are organized here, as this increases Kalasatama’s visibility and desirability as a residential area as well.
You are a resident member of Kalasatama Palvelu 2 Oy. How do the service companies’ operations impact the daily lives of Kalasatama residents?
The operating model of service companies may not be very familiar to people moving into the area. It’s easy for residents to use the services provided by these companies on a regular basis without even realizing it. In the future, the community center to be built at the corner of Koksikatu and Parrulaituri will certainly increase the service company’s visibility and relevance to local residents. The themed courtyards, which are also worth exploring, are a prominent part of the service company’s operations. Kalasatama Services 1 and 2 are here for the residents of the area, and I believe that one of the most important roles of a resident member is to ensure that residents’ voices are heard and, through that, to involve everyone in the development of the area.