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

Beachy Backyard Designs to Think About for the Summer in Setauket, NY

There’s something magical about a day at the beach. But since work and busy schedules don’t always allow for a getaway or even a drive to the beach, you can look into creating a backyard that has almost all of the same amenities. Imagine being able to relax right in your own backyard beach paradise anytime! How do you re-create a beach? Here are backyard designs to think about for the summer in Setauket, NY.

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Katya Pankov Katya Pankov

7 Plantings for Colorful Summertime Long Island Landscaping

Fill your Long Island, NY, yard with summer color that creates a sizzling display. A blend of plant types can be used for this purpose, including shrubs, perennials and trees. You can have a color show from the ground up with classic flower favorites such as roses, or count on other flowering shrubs to bring on summer color.

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