Such niches in older houses are charming puzzles – at a height of about 90 cm, they are historically usually a former telephone niche (typical for buildings constructed from the 1950s onward) or a niche for a religious image or statue in even older buildings.

The reason a tall vase looked out of place is due to the effect of proportions: If an object takes up almost the entire height, the niche quickly appears cramped. Visually, it needs some space above it.

Possible original functions:

Telephone niche: This is where the landline telephone and notepad used to be. Often, a wooden or stone slab rested on top at hip height.

Sculpture/Lamp Niche: In buildings constructed before 1940, these niches served to display busts, clocks, or an oil lamp for a dark hallway.

Bricked-up Wall Opening: Sometimes also a former serving hatch or a sealed niche from a previous electrical box.

Ideas for a Modern Design

Key & Drop-off Station: Install a floating wooden shelf at mid-height. Place a shallow tray for keys and mail on it – this breaks up the vertical line.

Light Accentuation: Paint the back wall a dark color, mount a small accent light (e.g., a wireless battery-powered spotlight) at the top, and place a low, wide sculpture inside.

Mini-Library: Two custom-made shelves create a perfectly fitting bookcase for paperbacks or art books.

Plant Display: Attach a small hanging plant (such as a pothos) at the top, allowing its tendrils to trail loosely downwards.

Approximately how deep is the niche, and is it located directly at the entrance or further back in the hallway?