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

7 Stone Masonry Wall Ideas for Babylon, NY, Landscapes

Masonry walls are beautiful, timeless, durable, practical, and like the little black dress, they go with every style. Whether you prefer the look of mortared or dry-stack (mortarless) walls, here are seven masonry wall ideas for Babylon, NY, landscapes.

Read More
Katya Pankov Katya Pankov

3 Natural Stone Patio Ideas for Your Long Island, NY, Landscape

A natural stone patio can add lasting beauty and value to your home. The design process helps you clarify your vision and flesh out ideas to marry function and beauty. To help inspire you, here are three natural stone patio ideas for your Long Island, NY, landscape.

Read More
Katya Pankov Katya Pankov

Unique Swimming Pool Shapes and Designs to Take Your Oyster Bay, NY, Outdoor Space to the Next Level

Now that you are thinking about adding a pool to your outdoor living space, the next challenge is deciding on the perfect shape and design. Pools do not have to be the same rectangular shape that was so common for many years. Now, pools can bring character, make a statement, and create an inviting, fun, and stylish place for you to relax and entertain. Adding a swimming pool with a unique shape and design to your Oyster Bay, NY, outdoor space will add appeal and value to your biggest investment—your home. Here are some swimming pool shapes and designs that will take your home to the next level.

Read More
Katya Pankov Katya Pankov

Consider These Cabinetry Styles for an Outdoor Kitchen in Setauket, NY

Whether you are opting for a polished and refined look or prefer a rustic and shabby chic style, there is one thing that shouldn’t be overlooked when choosing cabinets for your outdoor kitchen area—the building materials must be able to withstand the elements of the great outdoors. This is especially true with the extreme temperatures during the winter months. Here are some cabinetry styles to consider for your Setauket, NY, outdoor kitchen.

Read More

The Archive