KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. February 01, 2007 -- Privacy is a rare commodity these days. Even in the home. According to a study by Yankelovich, a leading research firm, privacy is cited as the number one value people want in their lives; however "privacy currently plays only a bit part in a home's floor plan."

Selecting the right type of door can help with creating peace and quiet.
"In today's busy world with all the stimuli we have throughout our day, having a quiet, peaceful place to relax is becoming more important," said Jayne Sanders, a Portland, Ore.-based interior designer who works with clients throughout the country. "What better way to relax than in a private sanctuary right in your own home?"
Whether it is blocking sound or bringing in natural light, JELD-WEN, the world's leading manufacturer of reliable windows and doors, offers advice and innovative products to help homeowners create solitude in an increasingly stress-filled world.
Peace and Quiet
For many homeowners, the "private" in private sanctuary means a desire for quiet. Today's homes are filled with barking dogs, loud children and an endless lineup of consumer electronics. In fact, according to the Consumer Electronics Association, the average U.S. household owns an all-time high of 26 electronic products. The noise influx has sent homeowners running for relief from increasing volume levels. According to Sanders, homeowners should try to find a room away from noise including the TV, children's play areas or street sounds. She also recommends that using sound-absorbing materials is a must when creating a personal retreat.
Selecting the right type of door can help with creating peace and quiet. "JELD-WEN® Molded interior doors upgraded with ProCore the Quiet Door® with solid core construction are up to 50 percent quieter than hollow interior doors and transmit less sound," said Chris King, JELD-WEN interior door marketing manager. "With a sound transmission class rating of up to 31, these doors are designed to block out everyday noise that can interrupt a moment of solitude or relaxation." A variety of styles and colors are also available to match any private sanctuary's overall look and feel. Laminated glass is an option on many JELD-WEN® windows and doors and can also improve sound performance.
Make It Your Own
When creating a private sanctuary, it's important to differentiate a private space from the rest of the house. This helps visually define personal space and reminds potential interrupters that the room is off limits. Sanctuaries should be clear of clutter to help create a restful environment. Sanders suggests using one main focal point to distinguish a private sanctuary. "A JELD-WEN® Custom Carved interior door is a unique way to add personalization and creativity to a private sanctuary and can serve as part of the room's artwork," said King.
Two-dimensional words or designs carved into the door can become featured works of art in a myriad of colors to allow homeowners to take customization to the next level. Calm, cool colors can be used for a meditation room and bold, bright colors are best for sanctuaries designed to stimulate creativity.
Maximize Space
If space is limited, even a home's smallest rooms can make great escapes. Bathrooms can be turned into spa sanctuaries and walk-in closets can become cozy reading areas. To make small rooms feel bigger, one option is to use mirrors to create a sense of space.
"The JELD-WEN® Impression™ mirror door gives homeowners the illusion of a larger room while saving on space, thanks to the built-in mirror on the back of the door," said King. "This design provides a clean look perfect for a relaxation room."
Make It Private
Just because a room is small doesn't mean it has to resemble a cave. Studies show that natural light can act as a mood-altering element, increasing energy and happiness. Utilizing a room's windows will open up small rooms and maximize natural light.
To bring in natural light while maintaining privacy, homeowners should choose a window with the right type of glass.
"Decorative glass options have become increasingly popular," said Brian Hedlund, product marketing manager for JELD-WEN windows. "With the variety of options currently available, homeowners can customize windows with glass that is both functional for their privacy needs and matches a home's decor."
JELD-WEN offers eight decorative glass options, including its popular rain and obscure glass styles. A window with rain glass is perfect for bringing in natural light but also gives the illusion of flowing water, which provides tranquil style and more privacy than traditional glass. For those looking for a window with even more privacy, obscure glass blocks visibility outside, yet still allows in sunlight to create a relaxing private sanctuary.
About JELD-WEN
JELD-WEN, inc. is the world's leading manufacturer of reliable windows and doors. Based in Klamath Falls, Ore., JELD-WEN began as a small Oregon millwork plant in 1960 and has grown into a company with more than 150 divisions and more than 20,000 employees worldwide. JELD-WEN is the official window, door and millwork provider of the PGA TOUR and Champions Tour, Proud Partner of THE PLAYERS and title sponsor of the JELD-WEN Tradition. JELD-WEN was the only window or door manufacturer to be named 2003 ENERGY STAR® "Partner of the Year" by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency. Eleven JELD-WEN® product lines and all windows and doors constructed with AuraLast® wood have earned the Good Housekeeping Seal. JELD-WEN® windows and doors have been honored by numerous consumer and industry publications. In 2005, JELD-WEN® IWP® Aurora™ Custom Fiberglass exterior doors received a Consumers Digest Best Buy rating.
For more information about the exceptional value and reliability of JELD-WEN products, or to find a dealer near you, please visit www.jeld-wen.com or call
800-877-9482, ext. PR 030.
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