Gene Dub

Gene Dub – Principal, Dub Architects Ltd.

Having created the most distinctive shape on the capital city’s skyline, Gene Dub now wants to restore one of Edmonton’s most distinguished landmarks of yesteryear.

The architect, whose 1992 design of Edmonton’s pyramided glass-and-stone city hall proved both eye-catching and controversial, launched plans to rebuild Alberta Hotel, a venerable four-storey inn on its original site on Jasper Avenue. Dub will build a 17-room restoration of the original hotel, where Prime Minister Sir Wilfred Laurier stayed during the ceremonies inaugurating Alberta as a province in 1905. Dub also purchased Hilltop House, a downtown mansion built in 1913 by Edmonton pioneer John A. McDougall, from the provincial government with an eye towards restoring its former grandeur. The one-time city alderman’s efforts at both making and preserving history were honoured last year by Edmonton’s Celebrate 2004 committee, which named him one of the 100 Great Edmontonians of the past century. – WG

How should Edmonton revitalize its downtown core?
Increase density and diversity, especially residential units and corporate offices, and associated businesses will follow. Make streetscapes more interesting and pedestrian- friendly. Preserve worthwhile history. Make a 24-hour activity centre particularly for students, artists and other creative types. Strengthen the connection to the river valley.

Who do you think is the greatest Albertan ever?
Probably Alexander Rutherford, after whom the Rutherford Scholarships for deserving students are named. As our first premier, he brought us into Confederation and was the major force behind the establishment of the University of Alberta.

In 100 years, will you warrant your own chapter in the history books, a footnote to great events or a single Google hit?
A footnote to a single Google hit.

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