We may be out of the festive tail-end of 2011, but that’s not to say winter has left us. We’re always happy to answer customer queries and offer advice, so today we posed a tricky question to our design teams – what makes the perfect modern reading nook? Here are their top tips;

• Comfortable, supportive designer furniture is a must. You need a versatile piece that can support your back and allow for all the other weird and wonderful curled-up positions the avid reader often finds themselves in. Leather corner sofas are ideal, especially something like the “California” model. Invest in relaxing, supportive throw cushions and an easy-to-reach blanket for those long winter evenings.
• A surface to put down your glass of red and reading bits and bobs is far better than reaching for the floor or attempting to balance things on sofa arms etc. Invest in modern coffee tables or side tables that can be sited well within arm’s reach.
• Generous lighting is essential. Bad lighting can cause eye strain and headaches. The optimum lighting for the human eye is natural light. Treat yourself to a few warming lamps. A great idea is to make sure you have a strong light coming from behind you to highlight the text, but also a few ambient glow lamps dotted around the room.

It may take a little planning and rearranging to find the perfect position and furniture combination, but it’ll be worth it as the winter rages outside and you’re snug in your reading nook!