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

Versatile Patio Designs to Suit Changing Trends

There is nothing like being outdoors in the summertime, yet the extent of our outdoor experiences is greatly affected by the quality of a landscape design. Whatever It is that leads you down the path to patio renovation or addition, you’ll first need some idea of what you wish to achieve. Knowing what the hottest patio styles are for this year can help you make a more informed choice.

Read More
Katya Pankov Katya Pankov

Natural Stone or Concrete for Your Long Island Outdoor Kitchen?

Once you’ve determined how your outdoor kitchen will fit within your overall landscape, you will need to choose materials that pair well with one another, the architecture of the home, and the current landscaping features. Deciding between natural stone and concrete will largely depend on your preferences, tastes and sense of practicality.

Read More
Katya Pankov Katya Pankov

Outdoor Lighting for Ambience and Function

Your decisions concerning outdoor lighting will play a substantial role in the nighttime landscape of your property. To ensure that your property is as remarkable at night as it is during the day, request the assistance of a professional landscape designer to create an outdoor lighting plan that enhances the ambience and function of your landscape in Long Island, NY.

Read More
Katya Pankov Katya Pankov

Using Masonry to Create Landscape Features

The use of masonry elements is a versatile landscaping tool for creating stunning outdoor spaces on Long Island, NY. Stone can be incorporated in a variety of ways and offers practicality, a sense of permanence and a characterful aesthetic.

Read More

The Archive