Date of Award

8-2026

Degree Type

Creative Project

Degree Name

Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA)

Department

Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning

Committee Chair(s)

Daniella Hirschfeld (Committee Chair)

Committee

Daniella Hirschfeld

Committee

Kelly Kopp

Committee

Jake Powell

Abstract

Urban heat is a rising concern and is affecting vulnerable populations such as our youth. A particular concern is exposure to extremely high temperatures on playgrounds – an environment that is meant to be safe for children even in extreme weather conditions. There has been an increase in many impervious surfaces such as concrete and asphalt in urban areas. These surfaces absorb solar radiation, which contributes to the heat island effect. These same surfaces are in and around playground areas, which are contributing to the extreme heat felt within these play environments. Therefore, requiring intervention to help mitigate the effects of extreme heat on a new or already established playground.

Within this document, you will find information on the impacts heat has on play environments such as hardscape materials, microclimate conditions, solar radiation, play equipment, and open exposed areas. The mitigation strategies are as follows: shade structures, tree planting, playground orientation, water features, and material selection. Included is a design guide with analytical tools and renderings of playground demonstrations showing each of the five mitigation strategies. You will also find precedent images of these strategies to help give you an idea of what your selected strategy could look like implemented on your site.

This research is important because schools, especially those within lower-income neighborhoods, tend to experience the hottest temperatures. These extreme temperatures cause children to be at risk of heat-related illnesses, burns, and heat blisters. Further research could investigate how playgrounds in schools or lower-income neighborhoods can implement heat mitigation strategies that are reasonable and achievable. Urban heat islands are a growing concern as our climate continues to change. Therefore, action must take place sooner rather than later for children and visitors to have a safe and enjoyable experience within park and playground areas for years to come.

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