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Evaluating outdoor thermal comfort in “Haats” – The open air markets in a humid subtropical region

Manavvi, S. / Rajasekar, E.

Abstract This study deals with outdoor thermal comfort assessment in two designed open-air markets – “Haats” in New Delhi, India. The study evaluates the impact of physical and subjective attributes on outdoor thermal comfort in this unique spatial typology. The field surveys comprise of micrometeorological measurements at seventeen locations accompanied by subjective thermal comfort surveys with 392 visitors. Physiological Effective Temperature (PET) and Mean radiant temperature (Tmrt) are computed from the measured variables. The neutral value of PET is found to be 24.7 °C. A significant difference in neutral PET prevail between the two Haats. This is attributed to environmental stimuli as well as presence of adaptive opportunities. Variables such as purpose of visit, gender and kinetic state of the respondents play a decisive role in influencing thermal sensation and acceptability. Design attributes of the Haats such as landscape elements, luminous environment and perceived color sensation of material palette significantly influence the thermal perception.

Highlights • Thermal comfort evaluation of designed open air markets – “haats” in a humid subtropical climate conducted. • The impact of physical attributes such as SVF and albedo on thermal environment is presented through field measurements. • Thermo-neutrality and acceptable thermal limits in terms of PET are established. • The role of adaptive opportunities on thermal sensation and tolerance are presented through the subjective responses. • Effect of spatial attributes, surfaces, environmental stimuli and nature of activity on thermal sensation is discussed.