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 Ways You Can Use Your Outdoor Fireplace Year Round in Babylon, NY

An outdoor fireplace is often the centerpiece of summertime outdoor entertaining. Luckily, you don’t have to pack up the fun when summer ends and gaze longingly at your outdoor fireplace from indoors. Here are seven ways you can use your outdoor fireplace year round in Babylon, NY.

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Katya Pankov Katya Pankov

Including Game Courts in Your Backyard Designs in Manhasset, NY

Are you looking at different ways to entertain the kids or spend more quality time together as a family? Are you interested in honing your skills in the comfort of your own backyard? The answer could be to install a game court and transform your backyard into a fun zone everyone will love. Here are tips for including game courts in your backyard designs in Manhasset, NY.

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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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The Archive