Red Bull x Prada: The Ultimate Skate Ramp in Porto Alegre
In September 2025, Porto Alegre witnessed a groundbreaking event that blurred the lines between architecture, sports, and fashion. Red Bull, in collaboration with Prada, transformed the Centro Administrativo Fernando Ferrari (CAFF) building into the world’s tallest skateboarding ramp. This daring feat was executed by Brazilian skateboarding legend Sandro Dias, who broke two Guinness World Records during the event. The project not only showcased the limits of human skill but also highlighted the innovative intersection of urban architecture and extreme sports.
The CAFF building, standing at 88.91 meters, became the canvas for this audacious project. A custom-designed plywood ramp was constructed along its curved façade, creating a near-vertical drop that allowed Dias to achieve speeds exceeding 100 km/h. The collaboration with Prada introduced high-performance gear tailored for the extreme conditions of the stunt, emphasizing the fusion of fashion and functionality. This event marked a significant moment in both skateboarding history and architectural experimentation.
Architectural Concept and Design
The transformation of the CAFF building into a skateboarding ramp required meticulous planning and design. The building’s unique curved structure posed challenges that were addressed through innovative architectural solutions. The plywood ramp was designed to seamlessly integrate with the building’s façade, ensuring structural integrity while providing the necessary surface for the skateboarding descent. The design also considered safety measures, incorporating crash barriers and cushioning at critical points to protect the athlete during the high-speed descent.
Materiality and Construction
The construction of the ramp involved the use of high-quality plywood panels, which were custom-cut and assembled to fit the building’s curved surface. The materials were selected for their durability and ability to withstand the stresses imposed by the high-speed skateboarding activity. Temporary structures were erected to support the ramp during construction, ensuring safety for the workers involved. The collaboration with Prada extended to the design of the skateboarding gear, which featured advanced materials to enhance performance and safety.
Project Importance
This project serves as a testament to the innovative potential of combining architecture, sports, and fashion. It challenges traditional notions of building use and demonstrates how urban structures can be repurposed for extreme sports events. The collaboration between Red Bull and Prada highlights the role of fashion in enhancing performance in extreme conditions. Furthermore, the event brought global attention to Porto Alegre, showcasing the city’s architectural landmarks and its capacity to host world-class events.
✦ ArchUp Editorial Insight
On September 25, 2025, Brazilian skateboard legend Sandro Dias achieved a groundbreaking feat by descending the curved façade of the Centro Administrativo Fernando Ferrari building in Porto Alegre, Brazil. This daring stunt, known as the Red Bull Building Drop, transformed the 88.91-meter-tall structure into the world’s largest skate ramp. Dias reached a speed of 103.8 km/h (64 mph) while dropping from a height of 70 meters, setting two Guinness World Records for the highest drop-in and the fastest speed attained on a standard skateboard.
The project was a culmination of over a decade of anticipation within the skateboarding community, turning a long-standing urban legend into reality. The temporary ramp was constructed using plywood panels along the building’s curved exterior, allowing Dias to perform four successful drop-ins from varying heights. Safety measures included inflatable barriers and foam cube walls to ensure a secure landing.
At 50 years old, Dias’s achievement defies conventional expectations, demonstrating that age is no barrier to pushing the limits of extreme sports. This event not only set new records but also showcased the potential for architectural structures to serve as platforms for innovative athletic endeavors.
Conclusion
The Red Bull and Prada skate ramp in Porto Alegre represents a milestone in the convergence of architecture, sports, and fashion. It demonstrates the creative possibilities that arise when different disciplines collaborate to push the boundaries of what is possible. This event not only celebrated the skill of Sandro Dias but also highlighted the innovative spirit of Porto Alegre and its architectural community. As urban environments continue to evolve, projects like this inspire new ways of thinking about space, function, and design.
Explore the Latest Architecture Exhibitions & Conferences
ArchUp offers daily updates on top global architectural exhibitions, design conferences, and professional art and design forums.
Follow key architecture competitions, check official results, and stay informed through the latest architectural news worldwide.
ArchUp is your encyclopedic hub for discovering events and design-driven opportunities across the globe.
Brought to you by the ArchUp Editorial Team
Inspiration starts here. Dive deeper into Architecture, Interior Design, Research, Cities, Design, and cutting-edge Projects on ArchUp.
