Architectural term question

[neo]

Dear Alt.Architecture group members,

A question about an architectural term: what would one call a cove in a wall designed to hold an ornament, like a vase or a small bust ?

Thanks, Neo

[TheRebarGuy]

I've seen the term "nook" used for that, but I don't know if that is the proper term.

I do know that on house I went into had one on the entry wall beside the front door. It was not centered in the wall, and my only thought to call it was "tacky opening in wall"

[RicodJour]

Niche.

R

[neo]

Many thanks !

[nomail]

[DBM]

I'd call him damn lucky!

Not every male gets to hold a small bust on a permanent basis.

DBM

[Kris Krieger]

"neo" wrote in news: [e-mail]:

I've seen and head nook (small size), niche (medium size), and alcove (large). Dunno whether they're the correct terms, tho', or just what the people used for lack of better terms.

If it's a thing that pierces that wall, I can't remember what I've heard it called.

[R'zenboom]

niche. -shallow ornamental recess in wall or pier, usually to hold an ornament.

-- R'zenboom

[neo]

Many thanks all, it was niche, Tolga