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.

Landscape Design Katya Pankov Landscape Design Katya Pankov

Here Are 5 Reasons You Should Hire a Unilock Contractor for Your Dix Hills, NY, Area Landscape Projects

Improving a landscape in Dix Hills, NY, often involves the addition of expert masonry, and there are few better masonry materials than what Unilock has to offer. Although any company can install Unilock products, not every landscaper can become an Unilock Authorized Contractor—and this matters. Here are five reasons to look for this type of landscape contractor for your next project.

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Pool, Creative Lighting Design Katya Pankov Pool, Creative Lighting Design Katya Pankov

Enjoy Your Manhasset, NY Backyard Pool Long Into the Night With Outdoor Lighting

Owning a pool can change your entire outdoor lifestyle for the better. However, you can’t enjoy a pool to the fullest without some proper outdoor lighting. This summer, you can enjoy your Manhasset, NY, backyard pool long into the night with outdoor lighting. Here are some top techniques for adding ambience to your pool area.

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Gazebo, Gazebo Design, Landscape Design Katya Pankov Gazebo, Gazebo Design, Landscape Design Katya Pankov

A Gazebo Can Add a Luxurious Spot to Relax in Your Mt. Sinai and Northport, NY, Backyard

When you’re looking for ideas on how to complete your landscape design, you may want to look no further than adding a gazebo. Whether you will use it primarily to enjoy a quiet breakfast on a weekend morning or as the perfect spot for sunset watching, there are many ways a gazebo can enhance your landscape in your Mt. Sinai and Northport, NY.

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