Street Tree Planting Patterns to Modify the Sky View Factor for Outdoor Thermal Comfort Enhancement

Abstract

Outdoor thermal conditions influence the quality of life in the urban commons. Urban vegetation is an effective way to improve pedestrian thermal comfort in the tropics as it provides shade, reduces urban surface heating, improves air quality, and human health. The primary objective of this study is to understand the correlation between the Sky View Factor (SVF) modifications and Outdoor Thermal Comfort (OTC) that could inform optimum street tree planting strategies in the warm, humid, context of Colombo, Sri Lanka. Common street tree planting patterns are identified and simulated, utilising the RayMan software. Results showed that there is a distinct advantage in utilising trees for SVF modifications and thereby increasing OTC. Tree planting patterns with less SVF yielded better results during the day, yet, showed little or no impact during the night. Conclusions discuss SVF-based design implications for the different urban canyon geometries, and orientations explored in the study.