The Gary Duff Designs Blog

Ideas That Shape the Way Long Island Lives Outdoors

Design is always evolving, and so are the ways we live outside. The Gary Duff Designs Blog shares expert insight, creative inspiration, and time-tested advice from fifty years of landscape design and construction on Long Island, NY.

Outdoor living space with custom pergola, stone patio, and waterfront views in Port Washington, NY
Landscape design featuring layered plantings and a curved stone walkway beside a historic home in Cold Spring Harbor, NY

Explore Our Outdoor Living Insights

  • Create spaces that bring comfort, beauty, and purpose to everyday life.

  • Stay ahead with fresh perspectives from our design team.

  • Discover ideas that reflect the Long Island lifestyle.

  •  Learn how to prepare, plant, and maintain for year-round impact.

  • Practical ways to protect and preserve your investment.

Every article reflects the same principles that define our work: intentional design, enduring craftsmanship, and local expertise.

Where Inspiration Meets Expertise


From patio ideas that make entertaining effortless to seasonal landscaping tips that keep your property thriving, our team brings clarity and creativity to every topic. Whether you’re dreaming, planning, or maintaining, you’ll find guidance rooted in experience and love for the craft.

Katya Pankov Katya Pankov

Tired of Minimalism? More is More with these Traditional Patio Designs

For years, design has been dominated by minimalism and the use of understated shapes and materials. While this trend often results in elegant, sophisticated spaces with a distinctly modern appearance, they can also lack the personality and rich character that many Setauket, NY, homeowners prefer. That’s why many homeowners are turning back to traditional patio designs, full of the color and textures that make an outdoor space warm and one-of-a-kind.

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Katya Pankov Katya Pankov

Achieve the Height of Luxury with these Patio Ideas in Southampton

More Southampton, NY, homeowners are shying away from rustic or overly suburban backyards, and are opting for luxurious, hotel-like outdoor spaces instead. While it may seem like focus is being pushed from family entertainment to aesthetic, these glamorous spaces can still be intimate and enjoyable.

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Katya Pankov Katya Pankov

4 Ideas for Choosing the Right Furniture for Your Landscape

With your patio construction completed, it’s time to add your own personality to the space in the form of patio furniture. The right furniture can enhance your Port Jefferson, NY, outdoor living space and create an area where you can work, entertain relax and enjoy the fresh air.

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Katya Pankov Katya Pankov

7 Plantings for Colorful Summertime Long Island Landscaping

Fill your Long Island, NY, yard with summer color that creates a sizzling display. A blend of plant types can be used for this purpose, including shrubs, perennials and trees. You can have a color show from the ground up with classic flower favorites such as roses, or count on other flowering shrubs to bring on summer color.

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