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

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.

Landscape Design, Outdoor Spaces Katya Pankov Landscape Design, Outdoor Spaces Katya Pankov

Does Your Landscaping Need a Springtime Upgrade? Consider These 4 Ideas in Syosset and Northport, NY

The most successful landscapes tend to achieve the perfect mix of beauty and function. If your landscape is in need of a refresh, you may be wondering which type of project would have the most impact. Does your landscape need a springtime upgrade? Consider these four landscaping ideas in Syosset and Northport, NY.

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Landscape Design, Outdoor Living Katya Pankov Landscape Design, Outdoor Living Katya Pankov

How the Shape of a Swimming Pool Can Influence Your Landscape Style in Deer Park and Sag Harbor, NY

The shape of your pool will not only dictate the visuals and use of the pool itself, but it will also influence the design of the rest of your landscape. As you plan out your perfect swimming pool this spring, be sure to read further on how the shape of a swimming pool can influence your landscape style in Deer Park and Sag Harbor, NY.

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Is a Gunite Swimming Pool the Right Fit for Your Oyster Bay and Port Jefferson, NY, Area Backyard Style?

A backyard pool can transform your summer life. With the various pool construction materials to choose from, it can require some up-front planning to decide what’s right for your landscape and outdoor lifestyle. Fiberglass and vinyl pools have their advantages, but few pool options have the creative versatility of gunite. As you plan out your perfect pool in anticipation of the warmer seasons, let’s answer the question: Is a gunite swimming pool the right fit for your Oyster Bay and Port Jefferson, NY, area backyard style?

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Masonry, Outdoor Spaces Katya Pankov Masonry, Outdoor Spaces Katya Pankov

What Are the Top 5 Masonry Trends for a Front Entry and Walkway in Huntington and Stony Brook, NY?

The front entry and its accompanying walkway are some of the most important aspects of the perception of a home in Huntington and Stony Brook, NY. They can be the deciding factors for visitors and passersby in whether your home appears welcoming or not. These masonry ideas could enhance the perception of your already beautiful home.

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6 Options for Adding a Rustic Outdoor Kitchen to Your Landscape Design in Deer Park, NY

Even the best outdoor living spaces can be enhanced by an outdoor kitchen that’s designed to address both everyday family activities and occasional outdoor parties. With the right design, your outdoor kitchen can become the hub of outdoor living and the source of incredible al fresco meals. Here are six options for including a rustic outdoor kitchen in your landscape design in Deer Park, NY.

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