Gecko Hardware, first green hardware store in Dallas, opened in Northlake Center on Earth Day as a member of the True Value cooperative of 3,880 stores nationwide and carries True Value hardware, as well as eco-friendly products. Owner Andrea Ridout, former owner of Hardware Plus, in Garland, for more than a decade, was inspired to develop the eco-friendly hardware concept along with partners Zach Montgomery and Jennifer Stuart after watching the activity at the Saturday markets in the parking lot around the Green Spot.

The focus is on natural products and providing a new kind of hardware experience for folks seeking to embrace amore eco-friendly lifestyle. Ridout states that Gecko Hardware is environmentally friendly. “We sell locally made products whenever possible and products made in America, such as Maze nails, which are made in Illinois from recycled materials.”

Gecko sells locally grown plants and edibles, horse tack, animal feed and all the products they can from area crafters and vendors. Ridout maintains free classroom space as a resource for community classes on environmentally related topics. She also hosts a weekly, nature-inspired home improvement radio show.

Location: 102330 E. Northwest Hwy, Ste. 409. For more information, call 214-343-1971 or visit GeckoHardware.com.