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

Must Have Features When Planning Your Southampton, NY Swimming Pool

In-ground swimming pools conjure memories of backyard parties and happy splashing kids having fun in the sun, or visions of your worries floating away as you relax on a floating lounge. But a swimming pool can remain an attractive focal point in the off season, too. Here are must-have features for your Southampton, NY swimming pool.

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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.

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Katya Pankov Katya Pankov

Have More Fun in Your Southampton, NY, Backyard With These Landscape Design Ideas

Your backyard should be an extension of your living space—a place that brings you comfort, joy, and happiness. The boundaries of your living expanse should be inclusive of your entire property line, and not stop the second you walk out the back door. What’s more enticing about a backyard living space is the lack of confinement—you are out in the open. Here are some ideas for you to consider that will bring you more fun while enjoying your Southampton, NY, backyard.

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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.

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Katya Pankov Katya Pankov

9 Ideas for Updating Your Outdoor Fireplace in Long Island, NY

Your outdoor fireplace should be the hub of your landscape. But if it doesn’t match the aesthetics of your home or the rest of your hardscape, you may not be using it or enjoying it as much as you could. The good news is that you don’t have to live with a fireplace you don’t love (and you don’t have to demolish it, either). Here are eight ideas for updating your outdoor fireplace in Long Island, NY.

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