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

5 Landscaping Ideas for Beachy Backyard Designs

A resort-like backyard makes the idea of a “staycation” far more appealing and can serve as a midweek haven for stressed homeowners. Here are a few ways to incorporate a relaxing, beachy vibe into your landscape design.

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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.

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Katya Pankov Katya Pankov

Stylish Outdoor Furniture Options for Various Patio Designs in Southampton, NY

After you’ve taken the time to choose the perfect patio pavers for your Southampton, NY, landscape, then your attention can turn to furniture choices. Find the perfect outdoor furniture to match your ideals for patio designs and achieve an appealing and polished aesthetic, as well as a comfortable place to relax, entertain, and enjoy quality family time. Here are some outdoor furniture ideas to consider.

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Katya Pankov Katya Pankov

Implementing a Pergola in Your Port Jefferson, NY, Backyard Designs

A simple change could be just what you need to get more functionality out of your landscape. This can be true when adding a pergola to your Port Jefferson, NY, backyard—a space that was once empty becomes a delightful, shady spot to relax. One of these backyard designs that include a pergola might be just what your landscape needs.

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Katya Pankov Katya Pankov

5 Landscape Architecture Ideas for Creating Private Outdoor Living Spaces in Long Island, NY

If you are like most homeowners, spending time in your outdoor space with family and friends is something that you look forward to all year long. The need for privacy is paramount during the special time of year when it’s warm and these gatherings can happen often. Here are some landscape architecture ideas for creating a private outdoor living space in Long Island, NY:

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