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.

The Ultimate Swimming Pool Planning Guide for Stony Brook and Long Island, NY Residents

Embarking on the journey of adding a swimming pool in Stony Brook and Long Island, NY, promises to enhance your outdoor living space significantly. This guide offers essential insights and steps to ensure a seamless and successful swimming pool project tailored to your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences.

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Landscape Design, Pool, Pool Installations Katya Pankov Landscape Design, Pool, Pool Installations Katya Pankov

Revitalize Your Long Island NY Home With Expert Masonry Services

When considering an upgrade to your Long Island, NY home, expert masonry services can play a pivotal role in revitalizing your outdoor space. The use of natural stone, brick, or concrete not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your home but also adds durability. Here are the ways expert masonry can transform your property into a more luxurious and welcoming space.

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Design the Ultimate Backyard Experience with an Outdoor Kitchen and Swimming Pool in Long Island, NY

In the heart of Long Island, NY, the concept of luxury outdoor living has evolved beyond traditional landscaping. Today, the integration of an outdoor kitchen and swimming pool has become the epitome of backyard luxury. It’s not just about adding elements; it’s about creating an experience, a space where every moment becomes a cherished memory. This is where your vision of an outdoor paradise comes to life.

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Pergola, Pergola Design, Outdoor Living Katya Pankov Pergola, Pergola Design, Outdoor Living Katya Pankov

Make It Yours: 3 Ideas for Including a Pergola in Patio Designs on Long Island, NY

Creating great memories with family and friends often starts on the patio. If this past summer ended up being too hot for comfort sometimes, now could be the ideal time to plan for next summer by installing a pergola. Whether you’re adding a pergola to an existing patio or starting from scratch, here’s how to make it yours, with three ideas for including a pergola in patio designs on Long Island, NY.

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3 Backyard Designs That Include Inviting Shade Structures in Setauket, Long Island, NY

As summer transitions into fall, you may be thinking about two things: how your summer backyard fun could have been better, and how you can extend your outdoor living into the cooler months. With a shade structure, you can. Here are three backyard designs that include inviting shade structures in Setauket, Long Island, NY.

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Outdoor Spaces, Masonry Katya Pankov Outdoor Spaces, Masonry Katya Pankov

7 Ideas That Incorporate Masonry Into a Landscape Design in Huntington, Long Island NY Area

During your landscape renovation, you will want to think about what will last long into the future. Masonry is built with time in mind, and there are many ways to incorporate it into your landscape. Consider how you like to spend your days in your outdoor living space, whether it is a fun activity, exercise, or relaxation. Here are seven ideas that incorporate masonry into a landscape design in Huntington, Long Island, NY.

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The Archive