Correlation between user activity at different rooftop typologies in residential buildings in a compact urban context

The scarcity of public open space has compelled urbanites to use residential rooftops as an interaction space. In Dhaka, rooftops are used for various social and recreational purposes which has extensively increased due to COVID-19 restrictions. During this period, few rooftops are used frequently while few are less occupied. Hence, the study identifies different variables that impact rooftop activities and finds correlations between them using the Pearson correlation coefficient. The study further shows the direction for accelerating the use of rooftops as an interaction space in residential buildings. Highlights for public administration, management and planning: • Rooftops represent important places of public life in Dhaka. • The variables that affect the social and recreational activities of residential rooftop space are analysed. • Statistically significant correlations were found between rooftop occupied by various services and number of activities, floor dampness and number of activities, the rooftop occupied by various services and a comfort zone with a pleasant view, parapet height and number of activities, and parapet height and safety. • The paper sets recommendations for designing and managing rooftop spaces.