Niche or alcove is a term used to describe a small, recessed area in a wall or other structure. It is often used to create a decorative feature or to provide a space for a statue or other artwork. The term can also refer to a small area of land that is sheltered from the elements, such as a sheltered garden or a sheltered corner of a larger garden. The crossword solution RECESS is an appropriate term for this concept, as it implies a sheltered area or a small area of land that is set apart from the rest.