Nischtiefe

Nischtiefe is a term used in architecture and interior design to denote the depth of a niche or recessed element in a wall or cabinet. The word is a compound of Nische (niche) and Tiefe (depth). In standard German architectural writing, the more common form is Nischentiefe, while Nischtiefe appears sporadically as a variant or misspelling. The concept is closely related to the overall design proportions of a room, influencing light, shadow, and spatial perception.

Measurement is typically taken from the outer plane of the wall or cabinet face to the innermost back surface of the recess. In practice, nisch depths vary by function: decorative wall niches may be shallow (roughly 5–15 cm), while built-in display shelving or lighting niches often reach 20–40 cm or more. In some cases, deeper recesses are used for display alcoves, seating niches, or integrations with appliances, and plans often specify the interior height, width, and depth to ensure proper fit of shelves, lighting, or ornamentation.

In architectural drawings, Nischentiefe may be specified alongside width and height to define the volume of the niche. The term is not widely codified in building regulations and tends to be a design spec rather than a stand-alone technical standard.

Examples of where it appears include interior renovations, museum wall displays, storefront recesses, and cabinetry with recessed panels.