Not looking forward to winter? Try creating a secluded corner where you can surround yourself with books and while away a rainy afternoon.

In this pocket-sized library by Simon Gill Architects (020 3713 9465; simongillarchitects.co.uk), honey-hued wooden shelves give a warm, cosy feel, while a skylight and small window provide ample illumination for reading. Tucked away in a side return, this compact zone proves you can create a refuge pretty much anywhere; you could also reclaim a recessed spot under the stairs, or install a window seat with built-in shelving on a landing.

Words: Charlotte Luxford, Photography: James Britain