русский term (edited): �������� ������

Возможно, слишком прямолинейно, но, ближе по смыслу, если свериться с определением. К тому же, словари тоже предлагают такой вариант.

Here's the definition, but I can't think an equivalent English term. The term can be found in Russian Google, SniPs, GOSTs, etc.
Световой карман
Световой карман - помещение с естественным освещением, примыкающее к коридору и служащее для его освещения.
В многоквартирных домах роль светового кармана может выполнять лестничная клетка, отделенная от коридора остекленной дверью.

русский term (edited): �������� ������

по-моему это "фонарь" (архитект.), или "первый свет"

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Note added at 4 mins (2005-11-15 07:40:56 GMT)
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top light, dome light

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Note added at 7 days (2005-11-23 05:33:52 GMT)
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Though not providing any "proof" :-) I would advise you to consider my "skylight" anyway....:-)

русский term (edited): �������� ������

window alcove or alcove window.

Here I would probably use alcove window, but I would say window alcove when referring to what is build during the construction process.

The idea is the window might not be very big or might be recessed from the inside wall in order not to let in cold air along with the natural light.

Here are some examples of this usage.


http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=howTo&p=Build/WindowSe...
Looking for a quiet, well-lit area to read, relax, or just ponder life's questions? How about a window seat? An open area under a window alcove is the perfect setting.

http://www.dhhs.state.nc.us/mhddsas/DIX/house.html
The upper porch was removed and the porch door was replaced with a double window alcove. A slate roof was put on and extended on the gable ends. Three dormer windows were installed in the roof (two single and one double).

http://www.bpl.org/guides/walkmckim.htm
The lobbies at the two ends of the Chavannes Gallery are of interest for their decorative schemes. Pompeian red is the dominant note at the south end, and the decorative elements - masks, torches, sea horses, a lyre and floral designs suggest Pompeii. The Venetian Lobby at the other end includes the domed central portion, the window alcove (with sea green and sky blue as the chief colors), and the entrance to the staircase to the Sargent Gallery. The block of stone over the entrance to the Study Room bears a carving of the traditional Lion of St. Mark. It is from the sixteenth century and was brought from Venice, probably from an ancient palace.


Note: Although some of the hits for window_alcove on Google use the prhase "bay window alcove," bay windows usually jut out from walls. I do not think that is what is wanted here.

Dormer window might another option. Dormers are built into the top story of a building, but the windows are flush with the side of the building and the alcoves usually have peaked rooves. Alcoves on the other hand can be put into any floor.