In architecture, a light well (also known as an 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 a dark or unventilated area.
Light wells can be used to bring sunlight into interior areas of a building that would be otherwise unreachable. Light wells may be lined with glazed bricks to increase the reflection of sunlight within the space.
Light wells 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.
