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

Artistic Masonry Inlays to Add Detail to Your Long Island, NY, Driveway

Paver inlays are a great way to add character to a driveway and boost the curb appeal of your Long Island, NY, driveway. Whether you want to pick up colors already present in your home or landscape, match your driveway to a walkway or nearby patio, or express your artistic side, here are some ideas for artistic masonry inlays to add detail to your driveway.

Read More
Katya Pankov Katya Pankov

5 Masonry Features to Boost Your Babylon, NY, Outdoor Living Space

If you want to bring new life to your Babylon, NY, landscape or create something entirely new, consider incorporating modern masonry to give your property a custom appearance. With the right masonry features for your landscape, you can boost the curb appeal of your landscape while also expanding the functionality of your outdoor space.

Read More
Katya Pankov Katya Pankov

Why a Unilock Authorized Contractor is the Way to go for your Hardscape Remodel

While your hardscape has the obvious functional purpose of providing outdoor living space, it also has a huge aesthetic impact on your home. As you choose a contractor, keep in mind that a Unilock Authorized Contractor in Washington, NY, has durable materials at their disposal, intensive training and evaluation, and a reputable guarantee to back him or her in the field.

Read More

The Archive