Expert: James Yee - 2/29/2008

Question
Dear James,

I am designing a walk-in humidor in my client's Bel Air, California residence. I have done some research and have been able to find helpful information on materials, lighting and display. However, I have two questions that I can't seem to find answers to.

The space is 7'6 x 6'6 with 8' ceilings. With such a small space, how can we ensure that entering and exiting the humidor will not effect the temperature and humidity levels too harshly?

Also, the client wants to use leather in the humidor. Is this material okay for cigars? Can we line drawers of cigars with leather? How would you suggest we use the material in the space?

-Jane

Answer
Hi Jane,

Yes, considering the small size of the walk-in humidor, it can be very easy for the humidity to briefly dissipate whenever a person exits or enters the room.  To correct this, all you need is a commercial grade, electronically controlled humidification system that will automatically – and constantly – regulate the temperature at 70 degrees Fahrenheit and 70% humidity.  Even if a person was to enter and exit the humidor many times in a day, a good humidification system in a well-designed room can recover to the proper temperature and humidity levels quite quickly and the cigars will not be at risk.

In regards to the use of leather in a humidor, leather can actually pull moisture away from the cigars which is why it is not recommended for lining storage components.  Leather can be used in a walk-in humidor but I would recommend that all drawers, trays and interior storage compartments (basically anything that comes in DIRECT contact with the cigars) be constructed of natural Spanish cedar.  It’s crucial that Spanish cedar be used because the wood can properly absorb and regulate humidity and the natural oil in the wood helps deter cigar mold and bug infestations.  On a side note, the natural scent of Spanish cedar also compliments the natural scent of the cigars.  (Do not use any other type of cedar as other cedars are extremely aromatic and can ruin the natural scent of your client’s cigars.)

I’ve seen walk-in humidors that have leather-bound façades for the pull-out drawers and various fixtures such as display tables inside the humidor room and cabinet door inlay so it’s possible to use leather as long as you do not line the interior of the storage drawers with it.  Display shelves should also be left natural and not be covered by leather.

Also, if you must use leather, avoid using chamois leather or any other type of moisture-absorbent leather.  If you are lining wood components with leather, keep the wood separated from the leather using a thin sheet of plastic as a vapor barrier.  (Because the plastic will be between the wood and the leather, it will most likely not be visible to anybody.)

I hope this answers your questions.  If you have any more questions, please feel free to just ask and I’ll be happy to help.

Regards,
James