If spring has you wishing for a spruced-up space, consider heading south. We discovered three independently owned stores that are more than worth the trip.

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5280 Home Spring 2014
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Old Glory Antiques

Owner Holly Kuhn sees the beauty in chipped paint, worn wood, and rusted metal—and you will, too, after browsing her shop’s carefully curated mix of one-of-a-kind finds and vintage-inspired must-haves. Think glittering chandeliers made from old silver spoons, chairs upholstered with vintage grain sacks, and mirrors trimmed with antique tin ceiling tiles.

6851 S. Gaylord St., Suite 254, Centennial, 303-798-4212, oldgloryantiquesinc.com

Willow – An Artisan’s Market

Your search for fun, funky gifts ends at this little shop in the heart of Historic Downtown Littleton. More than 200 artists (90 percent of them from the Denver metro area) produce its colorful inventory of handmade home accessories, art, jewelry, and paper goods. Whether you’re in the market for an intricately illustrated ceramic platter, bejeweled garden sculptures, or just a hilarious greeting card, you’ll find it all here.

2400 W. Main St., Littleton, 303-730-8521, willowartisansmarket.com

Oh, So Charming Cottage

Yes, it’s oh-so-frustrating that this treasure trove is open just one long weekend each month (or by appointment), but your patience will be rewarded with irresistible themed collections of vintage furnishings and home accessories that include stacks of pretty, floral-patterned china and nostalgic holiday decor.

5684 S. Datura St., Littleton, 303-859-8311, ohsocharmingcottage.com

—Illustration by Clare Mallison