The Metropolitan School of Panama Library- The Isthmus
The Design Vision
When you climb the stairs, you are greeted by a tactile rope separation that lets you know that you
are about to embark upon something special. In visualizing the library, I wanted a material and design
that is both beautiful and inspiring. The metaphor of the rope is a powerful one: tiny strands of
different materials bound together and intertwined. "A good rope has many strands, which must be
woven together tightly in order for the rope to be strong. The strands and the technique of weaving
the rope can be compared with the skills learners begin with—their own special talents, their
pre-existing related knowledge—as well as new skills they are developing and strengthening.
But the rope won’t weave itself. Many strands or few, good technique or poor; what is perhaps most
essential is the time and effort of weaving it all together. And once complete, the rope is a useable
thing, a tool."
I am a firm believer that learning spaces must support student well- being. The expansive, yet cozy
space offers flexible learning areas that provide choices in where to sit, fosters connection, and
integrates comfort and inclusiveness. The library is not a silent zone, but a warm welcoming
environment that allows for relaxation to focus on reading, studying, or instruction. There are also
carpeted zones that provided for class meeting areas for mini lessons, or for readers to sit and talk
with a buddy. On the Secondary level, the rugs create zones that divide the group studying areas from
the more relaxed reading nooks.
Finally, the use of biophilia as a wellness tool is essential. Biophilia is defined as the innate human
instinct to connect with nature and other living beings. Located in Green Valley how could a space
be envisioned without the use of greenery. The many plants incorporated in the design allows us to
maintain a connection to nature within the built environment while reducing mental fatigue and
boosting productivity.
I hope that the library inspires and motivates the entire MET community to read, study, learn, and
create.
Looking forward to seeing you here.
-Tisha Meadows
