Making rhythmanalysis transparent: Methods and techniques used in the case study of the Smíchov train station
Abstract
Rhythmanalysis and the way it is conducted is a relatively new and ungrounded method that borders between social sciences and philosophy. The paper elaborates the rhytmanalytical approach and tests it in a practice-based, empirical research.
The set of employed methods develop the original theory in a way that each method informs each other and contributes to the rhythmanalytical project. Rhythmanalysis is enriched by the synergic effect of the methods common in social sciences.
The paper applied it in the context of a recent urban development of the Smichov district in Prague. The focal point of the study, Smíchov train terminal was explored for rhythm-related phenomena at the very beginning of a significant transformation of this railway station.
A literature review was accompanied by semi-structured interviews with actors, structured observation as well as the time-lapse photography. Different approaches were applied with the aim to enrich the methodological framework of rhythmanalysis.
This paper explains specifics of each method and evaluates it by presenting its benefits, disadvantages and recommendations. Consequently, the study renders tenets applicable to future rhythmanalytical explorations that go beyond vague interpretations.