History

From a chance meeting between Mike Whiteside and Robert Kulp, learn the history of how Black Down Salvage has grown into so much more.

History of Black Dog Salvage

Starting a salvage business was not intentional. In 1999, Mike needed a garage built; Robert came to give him advice. The two found kindred souls in each other, having both served in the Navy. After lamenting the pending demolition of a local 1892 landmark filled with architectural details, they took a chance, made a salvage offer and began saving the house piece by piece.

In a warehouse Mike had rented for another project, with Mike’s black dog Molly by his side, they turned over an old vinyl sign – wrote ‘SALVAGE’ – and moments later a customer pulled into the parking lot. They haven’t looked back since. Robert’s attention to detail coupled with Mike’s creative problem-solving skills has created the framework for this successful partnership.

Black Dog Salvage quickly outgrew the original location on Franklin Road and purchased a 44,000 square warehouse near Historic Grandin Village in Roanoke, VA. The business has since evolved from a down and dirty salvage warehouse to an interior design showroom featuring architectural details, custom upcycled designs, furniture paint, regional artisans, and salvage-inspired furniture. This main retail showroom is now open 7 days a week and welcomes visitors from across the globe.

An additional receiving warehouse, “BDS2”, is located less than a mile away and is available by appointment. Customers can find new arrivals, antique lumber, and a large outdoor salvage yard at this location.

In 2018, Black Dog Salvage opened The Stone House, located next door to the main retail showroom. This fully renovated guest house and event venue was built in 1911 and serves as the ultimate showroom for architectural salvage-inspired design.

The latest project from Black Dog Salvage is The Dog Bowl, launched in August 2019. Visit the ‘Events’ tab for upcoming dates!

History of Salvage Dawgs

Since 2012, Salvage Dawgs has chronicled the adventures and creativity of Black Dog Architectural Salvage and introduced this Roanoke-based business to an international audience. Humorous, family-friendly banter, a suspenseful approach to presenting the salvage process, and useful information about how to repurpose the historic items they find has resonated with audiences worldwide. With a total of 11 seasons and 143 episodes, Salvage Dawgs has proven to be an engaging and entertaining television show the whole family can enjoy. Salvage Dawgs is co-produced by Trailblazer Studios and Figure 8 Films and can be found on the DIY Network’s website, DIY Go app, Discovery +, Amazon, iTunes, YouTube TV, and streaming devices.