Knock off the alcove (6)
I believe the answer is:
recess
I believe this clue is a double definition.
'knock off' is the first definition.
(thesaurus)
'the alcove' is the second definition.
(thesaurus)
(Other definitions for recess that I've seen before include "Hollow space" , "Find niche" , "break needed!" , "Small area off the main area" , "Nook for a break from business" .)