Last week, I had a story run about the lecture series at Boscobel, which kicks off the programming as the Federal-style restoration in Garrison opens for its 2007 season.

While I was speaking with the publicist, I asked — no surprise here — about the site’s museum shop.

Was that opening for the season, as well?

And I learned it’s not only also open but sporting a new look.

So that’s why I found myself driving up Route 9D this morning to meet with Renate E. Smoller, the museum-shop manager.

It was a beautiful scene that greeted me, with Boscobel looking as lovely as ever:

But today, my focus was on the shop, which is adjacent to the visitors’ center:

Talk about something pretty at every turn— this scene is just off the parking lot:

I was pleased to visit this shop again, as I love to hunt for treasures at shops nestled into historic homes, museums and the like.

Often, these are places that carry merchandise that’s both specific to what you’ve just seen or toured — and quite artistic to boot.

Also, these are most often smaller places with a more hands-on approach. They can take a chance on something unusual or work with smaller suppliers.

It often adds up to a lovely place to shop — and sometimes a ‘secret source’ for gifts.

And the Boscobel shop didn’t disappoint.

There’s a built-in drama, as it’s found at the end of this covered walkway:

The shop has gathered a wealth of merchandise just outside its entrance, which in warmer weather will be filled even more.

Take a look at just a bit of what’s here, such as these bags designed for weeding and some market-type totes:

And classic garden gloves:

“The Boscobel urn:”

And these evocative beehives:

Along with some classic T-shirts:

Then, of course, you step inside only to be greeted by this colorful burst of blooms:

They come, as you see, courtesy a new collection of floral-themed bags, a new line that Smoller has added to the mix. Most seemed to fall into the $40 to $50 range.

The shop somehow feels bigger, though Smoller says it’s mostly due to new paint (a switch to a warm, earthy brown from the creamy yellows found throughout the site) and some new display areas.

“You have a little more flow,” she says.

There’s just a nice air to the space, don’t you think?

Books remain a strong category, with topics related to local history, architecture and gardening among the best-selling items. There’s all kinds of stationery, too.

And take a look at what else there is, from vases and stainless-steel serving items to candlesticks and signature, dripless candles.

There are also a lot of things for kids, which appeal to those from school and scout groups to tourists.

“We have a lot of toys because we get a lot of grandmothers,” Smoller says with a laugh.

I thought this tote ($15.95) was just too cute, a nod to the site’s annual Turtle Walk.

There are also frames and a mix of jewelry, as well as some pretty scarves:

Definitely, a place to browse!

And to mark the new look — and make way for even more merchandise— Smoller told me that a sale will be held April 28 and 29.

It will feature markdowns on all kinds of merchandise including candles, napkins, jewelry, china, Virginia Metalcrafter gift items, bags, scarves and garden accessories.

The sale items will be featured on special tables, where prices will range from $1 to $50, so save those dates.

The shop is open during Boscobel’s regular hours — and you don’t have to pay admission to visit the shop (though you might want to combine your shopping with a tour or walk through the grounds, of course).

Boscobel is at 1601 Route 9D. Visit the Boscobel site for complete visitor details, or call 845-265-3638.