Urban Ore
Urban Ore stands as Berkeley's legendary eco-salvage destination, transforming the concept of secondhand shopping into an urban treasure hunt spanning over 3 acres. Located at 900 Murray St in Berkeley, California, this isn't your typical thrift store—it's an architectural salvage yard and reuse emporium where sustainability meets creativity. Since opening its doors, Urban Ore has diverted millions of pounds of usable materials from landfills, offering everything from vintage furniture and antique fixtures to building materials and quirky collectibles. The vast warehouse-style space invites explorers to wander through carefully organized sections filled with character-rich items that tell stories of Berkeley's past. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast hunting for reclaimed wood, a designer seeking unique statement pieces, or simply someone who appreciates the thrill of discovering one-of-a-kind finds, Urban Ore delivers an unmatched shopping experience that embodies Berkeley's commitment to environmental responsibility and creative reuse.
Store Information
900 Murray St, Berkeley, California 94710Phone: +1 510-841-7283
Email: receiving@urbanore.com
Website: http://urbanore.com/
Store Hours
- Monday: 8:30AM-5PM
- Tuesday: 8:30AM-5PM
- Wednesday: 8:30AM-5PM
- Thursday: 8:30AM-5PM
- Friday: 8:30AM-5PM
- Saturday: 8:30AM-5PM
- Sunday: 10AM-5PM
What They Sell
Urban Ore specializes in architectural salvage and reusable building materials alongside an eclectic mix of household goods and vintage treasures. Shoppers can discover everything from reclaimed doors, windows, and lighting fixtures to vintage furniture, kitchen cabinets, bathtubs, and hardware. The inventory constantly changes based on what's salvaged, but you'll typically find tools, garden items, appliances, decorative elements, and unusual collectibles. Quality ranges from restoration projects to move-in-ready pieces, with prices reflecting Urban Ore's mission of keeping usable materials in circulation rather than maximizing profit.
The Neighborhood
Urban Ore's Murray Street location sits in West Berkeley's industrial corridor, a neighborhood that has evolved into a hub for artists, makers, and eco-conscious businesses. This area near the Berkeley Marina offers easy access from Interstate 80 and sits just blocks from the waterfront. The surrounding West Berkeley district is known for its creative energy, featuring breweries, specialty manufacturers, and other unique shops that make it a weekend destination. It's a perfect location for hauling larger finds, with wide streets designed for industrial traffic.
Parking
Parking at Urban Ore is straightforward and stress-free, with a large on-site parking lot that accommodates cars, trucks, and trailers—essential for hauling larger salvage finds. The industrial location means ample street parking is also available along Murray Street. Since you may be loading bulky items like furniture or building materials, it's convenient to park close to the entrance. The spacious lot rarely fills to capacity except during peak weekend hours.
Shopping Tips
- Bring a truck or cargo vehicle if you're shopping for furniture or building materials—many finds are too large for standard cars
- Wear sturdy shoes and comfortable clothes since you'll be walking through warehouse-style spaces and potentially dusty areas
- Visit frequently as inventory turns over quickly; that perfect vintage sink or mid-century chair could arrive any day
- Bring measurements and photos of your space when hunting for specific items like doors, windows, or furniture pieces
- Don't hesitate to negotiate on larger items or bulk purchases—Urban Ore's mission is moving materials, not holding onto inventory
Nearby Thrift Stores
Other thrift, vintage, and second-hand stores near Urban Ore:
- Goodwill Store & Donation Center — Oakland, California
- Nichols Bin — Berkeley, California
- Emery Thrifting — Oakland, California
- Out of the Closet - Berkeley — Berkeley, California
- Wayback Retro & Vintage — Emeryville, California
- ThriftyCat — Berkeley, California
- Paisley Vintage — Berkeley, California
- The Antique Center — Oakland, California
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