lichtschachten

Lichtschacht is a German term for a vertical opening that brings daylight into interior spaces. In architecture, light wells are used to illuminate basements, inner rooms, or courtyards in buildings where exterior walls do not reach the lower levels. The shaft runs from the roof or upper floors to lower levels and is commonly capped with a skylight or translucent panel to admit natural light. In modern construction, Lichtschächte can also aid ventilation and influence the thermal performance of a building.

Design and construction: typical materials include masonry, concrete, glass, and metal framing; the shaft may be glazed at the top or along its length to control brightness, glare, and heat gain. The shape and cross-section are chosen to fit the building geometry and to maximize daylight transmission while reducing heat loss and drafts. Building codes often address escape routes, moisture protection, fire safety, and mechanical ventilation in relation to light wells.

Lichtschacht in mining: a vertical opening that connects underground workings with the surface. Historically, shafts provided daylight for miners, served as air intake and exhaust routes for ventilation, and offered an access or escape path in emergencies. In older mines, the shaft lining might be timber or brick; later, steel or concrete linings increased stability. In contemporary operations, artificial lighting is standard, but shafts remain essential for ventilation and emergency egress, and they are designed with safety features such as ladderways, landing platforms, and water management.