Co-author: Mitch Frackson
Contributions by: Dean Davidson, Drew Kennedy, Kevin Anthony, Kyle Keep, and Mike Kasuya
Read time: 3 minutes
Smudging, a sacred tradition practiced in some Indigenous cultures, is more than a ritual. It is a practice of spiritual cleansing and community connection that carries deep cultural significance. As the call for inclusive and reconciliatory building design grows, incorporating smudging into modern spaces highlights both the importance of cultural respect and the complexity of technical innovation.
How do we preserve sacred practices in environments bound by safety regulations, air quality standards, and mechanical systems?
This blog explores the intersection of tradition and technology – how smudging informs architectural decisions and the unique challenges it presents, from managing smoke and air quality to designing spaces that accommodate everyone’s needs. Real-world case studies show how AME has adapted mechanical systems to honour these traditions while meeting modern building standards. We’ll also look ahead to a future where smudging is embraced not just in dedicated rooms but throughout the built environment.
What is Smudging and Why it’s Important
Smudging is an Indigenous cleansing technique widely used by various Indigenous communities across Canada and globally. The practice involves burning sacred medicines, such as sage, sweetgrass, tobacco, and cedar, to produce smoke that is gently fanned over individuals, objects, or spaces.
Traditionally, smudging serves to spiritually cleanse and dispel negative energy. However, modern research also highlights its practical benefits. Studies show that herbal smoke can purify air by eliminating harmful bacteria (Nautiyal, Chauhan, & Nene, 2007).
While anyone can participate in smudging, it is often led by an Elder or Knowledge Keeper who understands the significance and process of the ritual. Integrating smudging into building design supports cultural respect and reconciliation by embracing Indigenous knowledge in everyday environments. It also reflects the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action (link), which promote celebration and education around Indigenous cultures.
Design Considerations and Evolving Standards
Designing spaces for smudging requires a balance between cultural practice and the needs of building occupants. Smudging is voluntary, and it’s important to respect those with sensitivities or conflicting activities nearby. In the short term, dedicated spaces are key – they allow smudging to take place without affecting others.
Long-term, inclusive design moves beyond designated rooms toward enabling smudging in any space. This approach normalizes the practice and reflects deeper respect for cultural traditions. Achieving this requires addressing several challenges, particularly around smoke management. Smudging smoke can trigger alarms or travel through vents if not properly contained. Effective ventilation and air return systems are essential to maintain comfort and safety.
Nodin smuding the AME Victoria office
Smudging practices vary across communities and contexts. Some Elders may prefer a light smoke, while others might opt for a dense, lingering smoke. This variability means systems must be flexible, especially as more buildings across sectors—from healthcare to education to recreation—begin incorporating spaces for smudging.
To address this, AME designs systems that contain and control smoke while respecting the practice and meeting safety requirements. Key design considerations include:
- Negative Pressurization: Prevents smoke from escaping to adjacent areas.
- Increased Air Changes: Around 12 air changes per hour (ACH), especially in large spaces, helps remove smoke quickly.
- Localized Exhaust: Removes smoke directly to the exterior.
- Fire System Coordination: Use of wall timers or call buttons to temporarily bypass smoke detectors.
- Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration: Aligning mechanical, electrical, and fire protection design is essential.
Toward Smudging in All Spaces
Current standards, including the City of Vancouver Facilities Standards Manual (which includes contributions from AMEr Mike Kasuya), emphasize providing one or two dedicated smudging spaces. The long-term goal, however, is to support smudging in any space throughout a building. This requires a shift in mechanical design philosophy, focusing on building-wide adaptability and advanced smoke management systems. Key strategies include:
- Dynamic Ventilation Systems: Adjusting airflow in real time.
- Zoned Airflow Control: Isolating ventilation by area.
- Advanced Filtration and Exhaust: Managing smoke in shared spaces.
- Integrated System Controls: Aligning fire and HVAC systems to accommodate ceremonies safely.
By focusing on these strategies, buildings can support smudging throughout without compromising comfort or safety.
Case Studies: Smudging in Action
AME has successfully integrated smudging spaces into a variety of building types, showing how we balance cultural practices with modern design. Key examples include:
UVic National Centre for Indigenous Law, Victoria, BC
As Canada’s first Indigenous Law Centre, this 29,000 sq. ft. mass timber building blends culture and sustainability. It features:
- Specialized ventilation to support smudging
- Electric HVAC powered by an air-source heat pump
- Local materials and mass timber construction
UVic’s NCIL in construction
Chilliwack UPCC, Chilliwack, BC
A sacred space with a central fire pit and Indigenous artwork, featuring:
- Occupant-controlled HRV for flexible ventilation
- Mechanical systems integrated discreetly into the design
North Island College Gathering Place, Port Alberni, BC
A culturally inclusive space with:
- Gathering area and Elder offices
- Smudging-capable ventilation systems
- Year-round access for students and the community
Keyano College, Fort McMurray, AB
A renovated 5,500 sq. ft. space designed for:
- Building-wide smudging capability
- Private smudging room with separate exhaust
- Controls for ceremonial curtain airflow
Chilliwack UPCC chimney in the “sacred space” room
Conclusion
Smudging spaces represent a step toward inclusive, culturally respectful buildings. As standards evolve, so must our designs. Mechanical engineers, architects, and building operators must continue exploring solutions that balance ceremony, comfort, and safety.
Whether it’s negatively pressurized rooms or building-wide adaptability, every project is an opportunity to learn and grow. These efforts contribute to a built environment grounded in cultural understanding and technical innovation.
For more on smudging, check out resources like: