Alcoves are often seen as design challenges, but architects Mohamed Ali Taha and Lobna Ragab tell Ahram Online how they can be transformed into stylish, functional features.

What does appear in contemporary accounts are wall niches as a decorative detail, inspired by Classical examples. Pattern books of the early and mid 19th century such as those by Minard Lafever ...

For centuries, wall niches have featured in traditional and contemporary buildings, which factor in a recess in the wall for placement of ornaments, sculptures, paintings or even deities.

Inspired by this heritage, modern designers have revitalized the ... Ragab notes that interior design sees wall niches as golden opportunities to turn empty walls into vibrant focal points ...