Your backyard should be more than just a patch of grass—it should be a place where you can relax, entertain, and enjoy the outdoors in style. With patios and landscaping in Syosset, NY & Plainview, NY, you can create a space that feels like an escape right at home. Picture a beautifully crafted stone patio and landscape lighting that brings everything to life.
With expert masonry, pavilions, and custom swimming pools, your outdoor space isn’t just improved—it’s completely transformed.
Related: Managing Pool Care in Farmingdale and Plainview, NY: How Expert Pool Companies Tackle Common Issues
The Best Patio Material for a Stunning Outdoor Space
A well-designed patio is more than just a place to set up furniture—it’s the foundation of your outdoor space. The right material enhances both appearance and durability, ensuring your patio remains a beautiful, functional retreat for years to come. Whether you prefer the classic elegance of stone, the versatility of pavers, or the sleek look of concrete, each option has something unique to offer.
Natural Stone: Timeless and Elegant
For a luxurious, high-end feel, natural stone is the ultimate choice. Bluestone, travertine, and flagstone create a rich, organic look that blends effortlessly with landscaping. These stones stay cool underfoot, making them ideal for lounging by the swimming pool or hosting summer gatherings. Plus, their natural texture provides excellent grip, reducing the risk of slipping after a rain shower.
Key benefits of natural stone patios:
Unique, high-end look that blends well with nature
Durable and long-lasting with proper installation
Stays cool in the summer and provides natural traction
Natural stone patios require expert installation. Each piece must be carefully selected, cut, and placed to create a seamless, long-lasting surface. Proper craftsmanship ensures the stones don’t shift over time, keeping your patio looking pristine.
Pavers: Versatile and Customizable
If you want a patio with character, pavers offer endless possibilities. Available in a wide range of colors, shapes, and patterns, they can be arranged in eye-catching designs, from classic herringbone to intricate mosaics. Pavers are also incredibly durable—if one ever gets damaged, it can be replaced without affecting the entire patio.
Why choose pavers?
Wide variety of colors and designs
Can be easily repaired by replacing individual pieces
Strong and stable when installed on a solid base
A professional installer ensures that the pavers are laid on a perfectly compacted foundation, preventing uneven surfaces and gaps. The result? A polished, sophisticated look that enhances your outdoor space.
Masonry vs. Concrete: What’s the Difference?
When designing an outdoor space, understanding the difference between masonry and concrete can help you make the best choice for your patios and landscaping in Syosset, NY & Plainview, NY. While both materials are strong and durable, they serve different purposes and offer unique aesthetics.
What Is Masonry?
Masonry is a construction technique that uses individual units—such as brick, stone, or pavers—held together with mortar. It’s an art form as much as it is a building method, allowing for intricate, customized designs that elevate outdoor spaces.
Common types of masonry used in landscaping:
Brick Masonry – Classic and charming, perfect for patios, walls, and fire pits.
Stone Masonry – Uses natural or cut stone for a timeless, elegant look.
Paver Masonry – Ideal for walkways, driveways, and patios with customizable patterns.
Masonry requires expert craftsmanship to ensure structural integrity and a seamless appearance. Professional masons carefully place each unit to create stunning, durable features that stand the test of time.
What Is Concrete?
Concrete, on the other hand, is a mixture of cement, water, and aggregates that harden into a solid surface. It’s poured into forms, making it ideal for creating smooth, uniform patios, driveways, and swimming pool decks.
Benefits of concrete:
Seamless Design – Poured in large sections for a smooth, modern look.
Highly Durable – Resistant to wear, weather, and heavy foot traffic.
Customizable Finishes – Can be stamped, stained, or textured to mimic stone or pavers.
Unlike masonry, concrete requires precise pouring and curing techniques to prevent cracks and ensure longevity. When installed by professionals, it provides a sleek, low-maintenance surface perfect for modern outdoor spaces.
Which One Is Right for You?
Both masonry and concrete can enhance your outdoor space, but the best choice depends on your design goals:
Choose masonry if you want a detailed, artistic look with natural textures. It’s perfect for fire pits, retaining walls, and decorative patios.
Choose concrete for a sleek, modern aesthetic that offers durability with minimal upkeep. It’s great for large patio areas, pavilions, and pool decks.
Professional expertise ensures that whether you choose masonry, concrete, or a combination of both, your outdoor space is built to last. A well-crafted patio or fire pit isn’t just a feature—it’s a focal point for relaxation and entertainment.
Related: Creating Stunning Architectural Appeal: Landscaping Ideas for Homes in Merrick and East Hampton, NY
Gas vs. Propane Fire Pits: Which One is Right for You?
A fire pit is more than just a source of warmth—it’s the heart of an outdoor space, bringing people together for cozy evenings and lively gatherings. But when it comes to choosing between gas and propane, the decision can shape both the look and function of your outdoor retreat. Both options offer convenience, ambiance, and efficiency, but they differ in fuel source, installation, and performance.
Gas Fire Pits: A Seamless, Built-In Solution
Gas fire pits connect directly to your home’s natural gas line, providing a continuous, hassle-free flame. They are a permanent fixture, making them a great choice for those who want a sleek, built-in design that integrates seamlessly with patios and landscaping in Syosset, NY & Plainview, NY.
Advantages of gas fire pits:
Unlimited Fuel Supply – No need to worry about running out of propane.
Lower Maintenance – No tanks to refill or replace.
Clean Burning – Produces less soot and smoke than wood-burning alternatives.
Because they require a gas line connection, professional installation is essential. This ensures proper placement, secure connections, and compliance with local regulations. When expertly installed, a gas fire pit becomes a permanent, worry-free addition to your outdoor space.
Propane Fire Pits: Flexible and Portable
Propane fire pits run on portable propane tanks, making them a more flexible option. They don’t require a gas line, so they can be placed virtually anywhere in your outdoor space. This makes them ideal for patios, pavilions, and poolside lounging areas.
Why choose propane?
Easy Installation – No gas line required; just connect a tank and go.
Movable Design – Can be repositioned to fit your outdoor setup.
Strong Flame Output – Produces an intense, adjustable flame.
While propane offers convenience, the tanks need to be replaced periodically, and storage can be a consideration. However, with a well-designed setup, these minor drawbacks are easy to manage.
Which One is Best for Your Outdoor Space?
Both gas and propane fire pits provide warmth and ambiance, but the best choice depends on your needs:
Choose gas if you want a permanent, low-maintenance solution that connects to your home’s fuel supply.
Choose propane if you need flexibility or want the option to move your fire pit to different areas.
A professionally installed fire pit enhances your outdoor space, providing a gathering place that extends the season for enjoying the outdoors. Whether you prefer the seamless look of a gas fire pit or the flexibility of propane, both options bring a welcoming glow to your landscaping.
How to Light Your Landscape for Maximum Impact
Great landscape lighting does more than just illuminate—it creates atmosphere, highlights architectural details, and extends the usability of your outdoor space long after the sun sets. When done right, it transforms a backyard into an inviting retreat, adding depth, warmth, and elegance. But not all lighting is the same. Choosing the right techniques and fixtures makes all the difference.
Layering Light for a Balanced Look
The best outdoor lighting combines multiple layers to create depth and dimension. A well-lit landscape isn’t about flooding your yard with brightness—it’s about strategically placing lights to highlight key features while maintaining a natural, inviting ambiance.
The three essential layers of landscape lighting:
Ambient Lighting – Soft, overall illumination that creates a welcoming glow.
Task Lighting – Focused lighting for pathways, patios, and steps to improve visibility.
Accent Lighting – Highlights key features like trees, sculptures, and pavilions for added drama.
By layering these elements, your outdoor space feels thoughtfully designed rather than overlit or underwhelming.
Best Lighting Techniques for Outdoor Spaces
Different techniques bring out the best in your landscape, creating focal points and guiding the eye through the space.
Uplighting – Placing lights at ground level to shine upward, perfect for showcasing trees, architectural details, or stonework.
Path Lighting – Small fixtures along walkways, driveways, and garden beds to guide movement safely.
Moonlighting – Soft, downward lighting from high points (such as trees or pergolas) to mimic natural moonlight.
Silhouetting – Positioning lights behind plants or structures to create striking outlines.
A professional lighting plan ensures that each technique is used effectively, enhancing both beauty and function.
Choosing the Perfect Swimming Pool Size for Your Home
A swimming pool is more than a place to cool off—it’s the centerpiece of an outdoor retreat. The right size depends on how you plan to use it, the space available, and the overall design of your patios and landscaping in Syosset, NY & Plainview, NY. Whether you're looking for a lap pool, a resort-style oasis, or something in between, the right size ensures a perfect fit for your lifestyle.
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Pool Size
Every backyard is unique, and the ideal pool size depends on multiple factors:
Available Space – A pool should complement your outdoor area, leaving room for patios, pavilions, and lounging areas.
Intended Use – Are you swimming laps, hosting gatherings, or creating a relaxation spot? Each purpose influences the design.
Depth Requirements – A shallow lounging area works well for families, while deeper sections accommodate diving and water sports.
Aesthetic Flow – A well-proportioned pool enhances the entire landscape rather than overpowering it.
A professional gunite pool builder can tailor the design to your specific space and needs, ensuring the perfect balance between function and beauty.
Popular Pool Sizes and Their Benefits
Not sure what size works best? Here are some common pool dimensions and what they offer:
Small Pools (10’ x 20’ to 12’ x 24’)
Ideal for compact backyards or as a secondary plunge pool.
Perfect for lounging, wading, and cooling off.
Can be enhanced with water features and integrated seating.
Medium Pools (14’ x 28’ to 16’ x 32’)
Offers a mix of relaxation and recreation.
Suitable for families, entertaining, and light swimming.
Can incorporate tanning ledges, built-in spas, or fountains.
Large Pools (18’ x 36’ and beyond)
Designed for laps, exercise, and large gatherings.
Works well for deep-end diving and water sports.
Best suited for expansive landscapes with plenty of surrounding space.
Why Gunite Pools Offer the Best Customization
Unlike pre-made fiberglass or vinyl liner pools, gunite pools are fully customizable. They allow for:
Unique shapes and sizes tailored to your backyard.
Custom depth variations for different uses.
Integrated features like waterfalls, infinity edges, and swim-up bars.
A well-designed swimming pool isn’t just about size—it’s about how it complements your overall outdoor space. With expert planning and professional installation, your pool becomes more than just a place to swim; it becomes the heart of your backyard escape.
The Platinum Group specializes in creating breathtaking outdoor spaces with custom patios, fire pits, pools, and more—crafted with precision, built for luxury, and designed for the way you live.