About Us
Honoring craftsmanship, sustainability, and history
At Save the Good Stuff, we specialize in salvaging and selling select historical building materials—from stately fireplace mantels and solid wood doors to longleaf pine flooring, antique hardware, moldings, lighting, and plumbing fixtures.Each piece we save tells a story.
Our mission is to keep high-quality, historic architectural elements out of landfills and in circulation—adding character, beauty, and purpose to new spaces. By championing reuse over waste, we’re helping to preserve both the environment and the craftsmanship of the past.
Our Story
Save the Good Stuff began when Tere O’Connell, founder of O’Connell Architecture, couldn’t bear to watch solid, storied materials head to the landfill—especially in the midst of Austin’s rapid development. So she started setting the good stuff aside, determined to give it a second life.
Along the way, she met Ryan Gugenheim—now our Head of Salvage and Operations—whose experience running a brick-and-mortar salvage shop helped shape and guide the growing business. With his knowledge and hands-on expertise, Save the Good Stuff evolved into what it is today: Austin’s only dedicated architectural salvage shop.
We’re proud to serve a community of builders, designers, homeowners, and creatives who value craftsmanship, sustainability, and the charm of well-made materials.