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