The Concept and the Psychological impact of portal design in Old Kingdom architecture: Field Analytical Study"

Abstract



This study investigates the conceptual, symbolic, and psychological dimensions of entrance design in the architecture of ancient Egypt during the Old Kingdom period (c. 2686–2181 BCE). It approaches entrances not merely as physical openings or architectural necessities but as integral spatial elements that embodied cultural meaning, shaped user experience, and influenced emotional responses. Entrances functioned as transitional spaces—both materially and symbolically—marking the passage between distinct realms: the living and the dead, the temporal and the eternal, the known and the unknown.



Focusing on selected case studies, including the Step Pyramid complex of King Djoser at Saqqara, the pyramid complexes of Khafre and Unas, and the tomb of Mereruka, the study explores how ancient Egyptian architects combined environmental awareness, spatial manipulation, and symbolic orientation to construct architectural experiences of profound psychological impact. Attention is given to design elements such as orientation with celestial bodies, proportional relationships, material choices, decorative programs, and the deliberate use of light and shadow. These features collectively contributed to orchestrating emotional transitions and preparing individuals psychologically for engagement with sacred or funerary spaces.



The research demonstrates that entrance design in Old Kingdom architecture extended far beyond practical considerations, representing sophisticated architectural thinking where spiritual, symbolic, and environmental factors merged seamlessly with form. By examining these historical examples, the study offers insights for contemporary architectural practices, particularly regarding user experience, emotional design, and the integration of cultural identity into spatial environments.



The findings affirm that the ancient Egyptians developed an early form of experiential architecture. Their approach to entrances reflects a nuanced understanding of space not only as a built environment but also as a psychological and symbolic journey. Such perspectives provide valuable foundations for rethinking modern entrance design with greater cultural and emotional depth.