LAUSR

Abstract The thermal environment in Recreational Open Spaces (ROS) is primarily a result of the surrounding built form which includes buildings, trees, and surface treatment materials. To study the impact of land surface treatment choice and urban form on the thermal characteristics of open spaces, a case study assessment was undertaken in the dense urban context of Mumbai, India. To study ROS and its thermal profile, we selected three open spaces adjoining a school in Mumbai exhibiting different surface material treatments and built form. A comparative analysis was done using ENVI-met model. The model outcomes were validated using field measurements. The results highlighted the significant impact of the land surface choice and vegetation on the ambient air temperature and surface temperature of ROS. Open spaces with concrete paving and open mud surface showed the air temperature about 3 °C and 1.5 °C higher than the surfaces covered with tree litter. During the evening, concrete surfaces showed that maximum surface temperature (Ts) was comparatively higher (4 °C), as compared to others. The inferences from this study would assist in appropriate policy formation and design guidelines that could favourably impact the thermal profile of ROS and aid in mitigating the urban heat island effect.