Gene Dub: City Building, Civic Leadership & Architectural Legacy

Conversations with Kelso Brennan Recorded at Banff Session 2026 - The Alberta Association of Architects (AAA) In this episode of Thresholds, Kelso Brennan sits down with architect, city builder, and civic leader Gene Dub for a conversation about architecture, public service, urban development, and the responsibility of shaping a city for future generations. Few architects have left a more visible mark on Edmonton than Gene Dub. Over a career spanning more than five decades, Gene has helped shape the city's physical landscape, preserve its architectural heritage, and influence its long-term vision through both design and public service. Recorded during the 2026 Banff Session — themed around “Origin Stories” — the conversation begins with Gene reflecting on his upbringing as the son of Ukrainian immigrants. Growing up with limited means, he learned early that education could serve as a powerful equalizer and pathway to opportunity. Although his academic journey initially began in psychology, Gene soon found himself drawn toward architecture through a combination of interests in art, mathematics, physics, and problem solving. He reflects on his experience at the University of British Columbia, where architecture was taught not simply as a technical discipline, but as a creative and philosophical pursuit centered on asking better questions. Following graduate studies and an early career working with legendary Canadian architect Arthur Erickson in Vancouver, Gene returned to Edmonton to help care for his father. What began as a temporary move ultimately became a lifelong commitment to the city he would help shape. In 1975, Gene founded Dub Architecture using prize money earned from a provincial design competition. Just a few years later, he entered public life and served on Edmonton City Council from 1977 to 1980. During that time, he played a role in supporting Edmonton's emerging LRT system and was involved in efforts that ultimately prevented a major freeway project from cutting through the North Saskatchewan River Valley — decisions that continue to influence the city today. The conversation explores one of Gene's most recognizable contributions: Edmonton City Hall. He also reflects on the influence of renowned architect Norman Foster, whose participation on the design jury helped reinforce confidence in the project's vision. Beyond new construction, Gene has become one of Edmonton's strongest advocates for heritage conservation and adaptive reuse. Kelso and Gene discuss the importance of preserving historic buildings and the role architecture can play in connecting communities to their past. Through projects such as the restoration and conversion of the historic McLeod Building and many others, Gene has demonstrated how older structures can be reimagined while maintaining their cultural significance. Throughout the episode, Gene reflects on the responsibility architects have not only to their clients, but to the communities and cities their work ultimately serves. His story offers a powerful reminder that architecture is about far more than buildings — it is about shaping places, preserving history, and creating a legacy that endures long after construction is complete. Topics explored in this episode include: • Edmonton City Hall and civic architecture • Urban planning and city building • Heritage preservation and adaptive reuse • Public service and municipal leadership • Edmonton's early LRT development • Protecting the North Saskatchewan River Valley • Architectural education and philosophy • Mentorship and family legacy • Community, history, and place-making Hosted by Kelso Brennan — entrepreneur, board director, and Managing Director of Hi Signs — Thresholds brings together voices from architecture, business, design, governance, and culture to uncover the stories behind meaningful work and the thresholds that shape our lives.