14" laptop purchase advice

Hi folks,

I need a new laptop that is portable (digital nomad life) but decent screen resolution and power for web/digital design, so hopefully some folk here may have some good advice. Below are the important specs I am looking for. Any help/advice much appreciated.

Cheers.

General Questions

1) What is your budget?
~ US$1,000

2) What size notebook would you prefer?
Thin and Light; 13" - 14" screen

3) Where will you buying this notebook?
US.

4) Are there any brands that you prefer or any you really don't like?
Open minded.

5) Would you consider laptops that are refurbished/redistributed?
Yes, if reputable source.

6) What are the primary tasks will you be performing with this notebook?
Web/digital design.

7) Will you be taking the notebook with you to different places, leaving it on your desk or both?
Moving a lot.

8) Will you be playing games on your notebook? If so, please state which games or types of games?
Not at all.

9) How many hours of battery life do you need?
Not that important, but more the merrier.

10) Would you prefer to see the notebooks you're considering before purchasing it or buying a notebook on-line without seeing it is OK?
Will have to buy online.

11) What OS do you prefer? Windows (XP or Vista or Windows 7), Mac OS, Linux, etc.
Windows 7/8.

Screen Specifics

12) What screen resolution(s) would you prefer?
Has to be 1600 x 900.

13) Do you want a Glossy/reflective screen or a Matte/non-glossy screen?
Not important.

Build Quality and Design

14) Are the notebook's looks and stylishness important to you?
No. Weight, size, build quality are.

15) When are you buying this laptop?
ASAP.

Notebook Components

17) How much hard drive space do you need; 80GB to 640GB?
Not so important.

Do you want a SSD drive?
Would be a bonus, but not essential.

18) Do you need an optical drive? If yes, a DVD Burner, Blu-ray Reader or Blu-Ray Burner?
Would be a bonus, but not essential.