Spring Refresh

Forget spring cleaning. We prefer spring refreshing. Pick up a few new (or used) pieces for your deck, patio or lanai and you’ll see how small changes make a big difference.

BY KELLY FORES | CONTRIBUTOR

Ace Hardware

4030 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key 941-383-1313

AceHardware.com

Called the “Tiffany of Ace Hardware,” the home décor section in the Longboat Key store is outstanding. This reclaimed metal tortoise planter would make a snazzy addition to any deck — or fill it with ice to chill beverages. And then light up your night with these faux stained-glass, solar-powered lanterns.

Blue Heron Lantern: $46.99. Blue Rectangles Lantern: $49.99. Planter: $199.99

Coastal Hobo

478 John Ringling Blvd., St. Armands Circle 941-960-1292

CoastalHobo.com

Coastal Hobo is Turkish towel heaven, with its selection of patterns and colors. Dress up your outdoor furniture or use them as a table covering. The shop also boasts a bunch of candles, like Rainbow Beach — each color is a different scent — along with cute wall hangings.

40” x 70” Turkish Towel: $40. 16 oz. Soy Candle:

Steff’s Stuff Antiques & Treasures

5380 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key 941-383-1901

SteffsStuffLBK.com

For one-of-a-kind, pre-loved finds, spend some time browsing this treasure haven. You’ll find everything you need to add a pop of vintage flair to your space. This tole tray begs to hold potted plants or be used to serve drinks. The adorable aluminum turtle dish would be extra sweet holding seashells.

Turtle Dish: $29.50 Tray: $49

Tervis

319 John Ringling Blvd., St. Armands Circle 941-388-2024

Tervis.com

Tervis has an interesting history dating back to the mid-1940s. Founder John C. “Jake” Winslow loved being outdoors and knew firsthand how difficult it was to keep drinks cold and hands dry while enjoying leisure activities in the sun. He found a solution to the problem. Bottom line? Tervis products work!

24 oz. Water Bottle: $24.99. 16 oz. Tumbler: $16.99.

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Just/Because

7 S. Boulevard of the Presidents, St. Armands Circle 941-388-1939

JustBecauseSarasota.com

Locally owned by two sisters who showcase more than 70 American artists and over 20 international artists, this is a fun store to visit. From the whimsical, like a sassy mermaid planter, to something more classic, like this ceramic vase and tray set, you never know what you’ll find.

Vase Set: $40. Planter: $32.