A selection of vintage items that were available at Ohmega Salvage, Berkeley, Calif. on November 3, 2021. The shop stocks a wide range of architectural salvage, which people can use for restorations of historic houses.
Douglas Zimmerman/SFGATEBerkeley’s Ohmega Salvage is the best shop if you are looking for historic or rare items in the Bay Area. The seller of architectural salvage has closed its doors after nearly 49 years.
Steve Smith, general manager of SFGATE said that it was difficult to make the decision. It’s taken a while. We don’t have enough businesses to help us.”
The store owners are trying to get as much stock out as possible before they close. Therefore, the shop will now be open from Tuesday to Saturday, 10 to 5 p.m. to Friday, starting January 19. Smith stated that items will go on sale up to 50% and could be reduced as the time passes.
The owners are still evaluating how fast the shop will close, so there is not a set closing date.
Ohmega Salvage’s exterior yard in Berkeley, Calif. on November 3, 2021. The store stocks a wide range of architectural salvage, which can be used to repair historic houses.
Douglas Zimmerman/SFGATEOhmega Salvage is located at 2400 San Pablo Ave. It was established in 1974. The store specializes in the acquisition and sale of rare architectural items. You can find everything, from vintage light fixtures and antique doorsknobs, to pieces that were part of Victorian-era homes in the Bay Area.
Steve Drobinsky, the former owner of the shop, died in April 2012. Katherine Davis, his spouse is now the owner. Smith stated that the shop had faced many difficulties over the years including the COVID-19 pandemic and a difficult labor market. He also noted a decreased interest in salvaged material when SFGATE visited the shop in 2021.
There is an age-old generational shift in what people love and are drawn to, versus the things their grandparents and parents did. … Smith stated that while I wish to remain optimistic, the future remains uncertain. He spoke with SFGATE Nov. 20, 2021.
Ohmega Salvage, Berkeley, Calif. was open to customers on November 3, 2021. There is a wide selection of architectural salvage available that can be used to repair historic houses, and many other purposes.
Douglas Zimmerman/SFGATEThe store’s uniqueness meant that it became a favorite in the area and was even visited by many celebrities. Smith recalls helping Robin Wright when she was designing her house. Sharon Stone purchased a few things and then reportedly sold it to the store. Tom Waits and Norah have also browsed Ohmega Salvage.
Smith stated that they own so many unique items they want to keep them from having to throw away or recycle as much of it as possible. He said, “Right now we are trying to find homes and allow all of this old cool stuff to live on.”
The breaking news story has been updated.