 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 (or areaway in North American usage).The lightwell was used in ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians and at the Palace of Knossos on Minoan Crete.