Episode 3 - Sastamala expedition

On March 3 The Dream Team has finally set out for Sastamala! Our schedule was quite tight - beside Playbook meeting with project partner we were about to do first field work. (And, hopefully, team official photo.)

Dreamers have found their way to town hall just on time of the meeting with city officials and Aino, our project facilitator. To make things easier, first part was structured as Q&A session. Every member of the team had to choose randomly few questions concerning the content of the Playbook and solution proposals. Answering those questions we were coming up with new ideas and remarks, so vivid discussion has naturally developed. It has helped to clarify project details and define main lines along which The Dream Team should work. Last but not least - team has gained data much needed to create coherent renewal plan.

After discussing Playbook, Dreamers has set out for a new adventure guided by Timo, one of town hall representatives. Beside paying attention to architecture and landscape features (we all have noticed how Sastamala shape reminds strongly of Tampere), we were approaching and interviewing people living in the town - shop assistants, shopping mall clients and walkers.

What's their favourite spot in town center?

What could be improved or built in the centre?

How they feel about our proposals?

In daring quest for answers Dreamers has even dropped by local newspaper's office. In result, we have heard three persons' opinions AND received an offer we could not refuse - one of Tyrvään Sanomat journalists has proposed to write a story about our project!

Beautiful landmark but we could not find open door.

Puistokatu, main business street in Sastamala.

Happy with press release prospect, we have decided to inspect more closely shopping mall and market square area. We have also walked to lake shore and discussed new facilities that could be build there.

Strong influence of Tampere could not escape Dreamers' attention.



After Timo has returned to his duties at the office, The Dream Team decided it is high time for afternoon coffee and snack. In addition to talking over all the invaluable information we have got during this trip and new exciting ideas it has invoked, we have also started to discuss how we can prepare some demo of solutions.  Everyone was thrilled by SketchUp software that Natalia has presented as very useful tool at the new stage of our project.