In the heart of summer, London’s concrete and brick can feel like they’re radiating heat with every step. That’s not just your imagination — it’s the 'urban heat island' effect at work. Cities like London are significantly warmer than surrounding rural areas because hard surfaces absorb and retain heat during the day, then slowly release it through the night.
Urban gardens are one of the most effective tools for pushing back against rising city temperatures. With thoughtful design, these green spaces do far more than just enhance aesthetics — they help regulate heat, improve airflow, and bring natural cooling to built-up environments.
