Lightwell
In architecture a lightwell, light well or air shaft is an unroofed external space provided within the volume of a large building to allow light and air to reach what would otherwise be dark or unventilated area. Lightwells may be lined with glazed bricks to increase the reflection of sunlight within the space.
Lightwells serve to reduce the necessity for electric lighting, add a central space within the building, and provide an internal open space for windows to give an illusion of having a view outside.
A subterranean lightwell at the front of a building to provide light to a basement is called an area.
Ancient history
Use of the light well was known in ancient civilizations, including Egypt[1] and at the Palace of Knossos on Minoan Crete.[2] There are also instances of light well use by the Romans.[3]
See also
References
- ^ Bagnall, Roger S (2006). The demography of Roman Egypt. Cambridge, New York: Cambridge University Press. ISBN 9780521461238. OCLC 28927049.
{{cite book}}: Unknown parameter|coauthors=ignored (|author=suggested) (help) - ^ Hogan, C Michael (2008-04-14). "Knossos". The Modern Antiquarian. Retrieved 2008-05-24.
- ^ Higginbotham, James Arnold (1997). Piscinae: Artificial Fishponds in Roman Italy. Chapel Hill, NC: University of North Carolina Press. ISBN 9780807823293. OCLC 35172558.
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