Creating a dedicated cigar room transforms the smoking experience from a casual pleasure into a refined ritual. Let’s break down the essential components of a proper smoking room, focusing on the technical requirements that ensure optimal enjoyment.
Ventilation: Your First Priority
A proper ventilation system needs to handle 12-15 air changes per hour. This typically requires:
- A dedicated exhaust fan rated for at least 100 CFM per person who might smoke simultaneously
- An air intake source (either passive or powered) to prevent negative pressure
- HEPA filtration to remove smoke particles
- Activated carbon filters to address odor
Install the exhaust point at ceiling height where smoke naturally rises. Position your air intake lower in the room to create a natural flow. This setup helps prevent smoke from lingering at eye level.
Temperature and Humidity Control
Your smoking room requires separate climate control from the rest of your house:
- Maintain temperature between 65-72°F
- Keep relative humidity at 65-70%
- Install a dedicated thermostat and hygrometer
- Consider a standalone HVAC unit for precise control
Proper humidity benefits both your cigars and the room’s atmosphere. Too dry, and cigars burn too hot. Too humid, and the smoke becomes heavy and uncomfortable.
Storage Solutions
Build your storage around your smoking habits:
- Walk-in humidor or cabinet humidor for your main collection
- Desktop humidor for immediate access
- Separate storage for accessories and supplies
- Lockable storage for rare or valuable cigars
Your humidor needs should match your typical consumption plus room for aging and special occasions. Factor in space for future collection growth.
Furniture and Materials
Choose materials that resist smoke absorption:
- Leather upholstery over fabric
- Sealed wood surfaces
- Non-porous flooring (hardwood or tile)
- Metal or glass accent pieces
Avoid carpeting, curtains, and unsealed wood that trap smoke particles and odors. If you must use fabrics, choose synthetic materials that resist odor absorption.
Lighting Systems
Proper lighting enhances both ambiance and functionality:
- Task lighting for cutting and lighting cigars (at least 50 lumens)
- Ambient lighting for general illumination
- Accent lighting for display areas
- Dimmable options for mood control
Install switches near the entry and seating areas for convenient control.
Essential Equipment
Beyond basic smoking supplies, consider:
- Multiple large ashtrays (at least 4″ diameter)
- Cigar cutters (straight cut, V-cut, punch)
- Multiple torch lighters
- Clean glasses for beverages
- Air quality monitor
- Cleaning supplies station
Position these items within easy reach of seating areas.
Maintenance Schedule
Develop a regular maintenance routine:
- Daily emptying of ashtrays
- Weekly cleaning of surfaces
- Monthly filter checks and replacements
- Quarterly deep cleaning of all surfaces
- Semi-annual HVAC service
- Annual ventilation system inspection
This schedule prevents smoke residue buildup and maintains optimal air quality.
Budget Considerations
Prioritize your investments:
- Ventilation system ($2,000-5,000)
- Climate control ($1,500-3,000)
- Storage solutions ($1,000-4,000)
- Furniture ($2,000-6,000)
- Lighting ($500-1,500)
- Equipment ($500-1,000)
Start with essential systems and expand as budget allows. A proper ventilation system is worth more than premium furniture.
Following these guidelines creates a comfortable, functional space that protects both your collection and your enjoyment of it. Remember: good ventilation and climate control aren’t luxuries – they’re necessities for a proper smoking room.