Great Homes - West MAL LYN NAS 06-18-2026

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Poolside Paradise

The new era of pools and masonry

Homeowners are investing in integrated outdoor living spaces

By Christy Hinko

The backyard has become one of the most coveted amenities in real estate, and nowhere is that more apparent than on Long Island. What began during the Covid-19 pandemic as a desire for private outdoor space has evolved into a long-term investment in lifestyle, entertaining and home value. Today's homeowners are spending less time dreaming about vacation destinations and more time creating resort-inspired retreats just steps from their back doors.

Pools remain at the center of many of these projects, but the modern backyard is about far more than swimming. Outdoor kitchens, fire features, custom masonry, artificial turf, integrated technology and carefully planned gathering spaces are reshaping the way Long Islanders use their properties.

People want hangout pools. They want five and a half feet, they want to have benches and sun decks, stadium steps.

Gurino

According to Larry Gurino, co-owner of Big Becks Pools and Pavers, a family-owned company based in Massapequa, demand for comprehensive outdoor living projects remains strong years after the pandemic boom. The company specializes in pool construction, masonry work and outdoor living design, providing a single source for homeowners looking to transform their yards. Big Becks has earned recognition as an award-winning pool builder and offers in-house design, construction and service capabilities.

"Pools are still very popular," Gurino said. "We are averaging installing two pools a week here, almost all year, except when the snow is too deep."

While the appetite for pools remains robust, the design priorities have changed significantly. Gone are the days when homeowners wanted deep diving pools designed primarily for swimming laps or showcasing a diving board.

"Deep pools with diving boards; that's gone," Gurino said. Insurance considerations have played a role in that shift, but changing lifestyles are driving it even more. Today's homeowners want spaces designed for relaxation and social interaction.

"People want hangout pools," Gurino said. "They want five and a half feet, they want to hang out, they want to have benches and sun decks, stadium steps."

One of the fastest-growing features is the sun shelf, often called a tanning ledge. These shallow platforms allow loungers to sit partially submerged in the water while children play nearby. Combined with built-in benches and wide entry steps, these features transform the pool into a social environment rather than simply a place to swim.

Industry discussions among pool owners and builders have similarly highlighted growing demand for tanning ledges and sun shelves, particularly for family-oriented entertaining spaces.

The emphasis on socializing extends beyond the pool itself. Increasingly, designers are approaching the backyard as a fully integrated outdoor living environment.

"The layout of the backyard is based on fun," Gurino said.

Rather than treating the pool, patio and outdoor kitchen as separate elements, homeowners are seeking cohesive designs that encourage interaction. Gurino said successful projects begin with understanding how families and guests will move throughout the space.

"Your outdoor kitchen and patio should not be very far from the steps in the pool, because the people that are sitting in the pool want to talk to the people at the outdoor kitchen or the people at the table," he said.

The result is a more intentional approach to site planning. Outdoor kitchens are positioned to maintain conversation between swimmers and guests. Dining areas are integrated into the overall design rather than tucked away in separate corners. Fire pits create gathering spots that extend backyard use well into the evening.

For many homeowners, these additions have become as important as the pool itself.

"The outdoor kitchen, the waterfalls, fire pits," Gurino said, listing some of the most requested features. "People are doing all kinds of different kinds of pavers."

Masonry has become a defining element of these projects. Premium paver patios, natural stone accents, retaining walls and custom seating areas help establish a sense of permanence and sophistication. On Long Island, Cambridge pavers remain one of the most recognizable brands among homeowners, according to Gurino.

Another trend gaining momentum is artificial

Masonry and added water elements have

turf. Once viewed primarily as a commercial landscaping material, today's high-quality synthetic grass products are finding a place in residential properties.

"A lot of people are doing turf," Gurino said.

Artificial turf is particularly attractive in backyards dominated by pools and hardscape features. With less natural lawn remaining, homeowners are looking for ways to reduce maintenance while maintaining a clean appearance.

"You don't have to have the guy come in the back, cut the grass, blow all the leaves and grass clippings into the pool," Gurino said.

The material also appeals to families with pets, especially when paired with irrigation systems that help keep surfaces clean.

Perhaps the biggest shift since Covid, however, is not the specific products homeowners choose but the way they approach projects. Many homeowners no longer want to coordinate multiple contractors for excavation, masonry, electrical work, landscaping and pool installation.

"I think people are getting to a point where they don't like to coordinate too many contractors for a single project anymore," Gurino said.

Instead, homeowners increasingly prefer a specialized experience managed by a single company. The trend reflects both convenience and the growing complexity of outdoor living projects, which often require extensive coordination among multiple trades.

Gurino believes his company's ability to manage every phase of construction in-house is a major advantage.

"We specialize in this turnkey experience, handling all of the details of the project with our customers," he said.

That guidance often extends beyond technical construction decisions. Homeowners frequently change their minds after seeing projects begin to take shape, whether adjusting pool depths, adding sun shelves or modifying layouts.

The collaborative approach resonates with homeowners making significant investments in their properties. Many are treating backyard projects with the same level of customization and planning traditionally reserved for interior renovations.

As Long Island's housing market continues to emphasize lifestyle amenities, outdoor spaces are increasingly viewed as extensions of the home rather than separate recreational areas. Pools are still central to that vision, but they are now part of a larger ecosystem that includes masonry, landscaping, technology and entertainment.

For homeowners investing in Long Island properties, the goal is no longer simply to install a pool. It is to create a destination—one that blends comfort, functionality and year-round enjoyment. The post-pandemic backyard has evolved into a private resort, and on Long Island, that trend shows no signs of slowing down.

Photo by Point3D

Homeowners are seeking cohesive designs that encourage interaction.

Photo by R. Gray

become as important as the pool in backyard design.

Photo by Angelo

Resort-inspired retreats are more popular than ever on Long Island.

Larry

Big Becks Pools and Pavers

For many homeowners, the decision to sell begins long before a property officially reaches the market. According to Leon Sanchez, Jr. of Newman Realty in Malverne, thoughtful preparation can help sellers maximize value, avoid surprises and position their homes for a smoother transaction.

“The best thing I think you could ever do is have a pre-sale inspection,” Sanchez said.

A pre-sale inspection allows homeowners to identify potential issues before a buyer’s inspector does. Common concerns can range from electrical and plumbing issues to aging mechanical systems and deferred maintenance.

“You don’t want to get a great offer, have the deal on the table, and then hear, ‘We want a big discount because this came up,’” Sanchez said. “If you can get out ahead of it, it’s a good thing.”

Equally important is understanding where a home fits in today’s market. Sanchez recommends that sellers begin with a professional comparative market analysis, or CMA.

“The first step is to get a realtor in and have a thorough market analysis done,” he said. “That will help you see

where your home fits in the market in terms of pricing.”

While stories of bidding wars continue to make headlines, Sanchez cautions sellers against overpricing.

“It’s the most important thing with this current market — to price it correctly,” he said. “If you price it too high, it’s going to sit.”

Not every seller needs to undertake a major renovation before listing. While fresh paint, landscaping improvements and general maintenance can enhance a home’s appeal, many buyers are willing to purchase properties that need updating.

“There’s a market for everything,” Sanchez said. “A lot of people can’t afford to fully upgrade and renovate

before selling.”

Long Island’s housing market remains highly competitive. As a result, Sanchez said preparation, pricing and professional guidance have become more important than ever.

For homeowners considering a move, he believes the formula remains simple: understand your home’s condition, know its value and address potential concerns before buyers walk through the door.

—Christy Hinko

“You don’t want to get a great offer, have the deal on the table, and then hear, ‘We want a big discount

— Leon Sanchez, Jr., Newman Realty

Leon Sanchez Sr.

Courtesy of Newman Realty

Brothers Leon Sanchez, Jr., left, and Jonathan Sanchez help clients buy and sell homes.

As leader of the #1 Real Estate team on the South Shore of Long Island, I am here to meet and surpass your expectations. If you’re in the market or just considering it, reach out and I will put my negotiating skills and industry expertise to work for you, helping you make the right move.

Hewlett

Home o rganization

Less clutter, more summer

Organizing tips to refresh your home this season

By Christy Hinko

As summer settles in and we spend more time entertaining, traveling and enjoying the longer days, many of us are taking a fresh look at our spaces. Closets, garages, basements and kitchen cabinets that have accumulated clutter throughout the year often become more noticeable during the busy summer season. While spring may traditionally be associated with cleaning and renewal, summer offers an equally valuable opportunity to refresh the home environment. According to professional organizer Alice Z. Markinson of Organize With Alice, the key to success lies in simplicity, consistency and a realistic approach.

Seasonal Reset

"The days are getting longer and we’re spending more time outdoors. It’s easier for us to see what is cluttering our homes and our lives in general," Markinson says. For homeowners preparing properties for sale—or simply aiming to enjoy a more functional and peaceful living space — spring organization can also enhance perceived value. Clean, uncluttered interiors photograph better, show more effectively and feel larger to prospective buyers.

Market Appeal

In real estate, presentation matters. A tidy, streamlined home signals care and attention, while excess clutter can distract from a property’s best features. Even modest organizing efforts can elevate how a home is perceived, both online and in person.

Start Small

Markinson emphasizes that the process doesn’t need to be overwhelming. In fact, one of the most common mistakes she sees is homeowners attempting to tackle too much at once.

“Start small,” she advises. “Instead of tackling an entire room, focus on one category or zone, like a single drawer, your entryway, or your cleaning supplies. Small wins build momentum and prevent overwhelm.”

This incremental approach is especially useful in busy households, where time is limited and motivation can quickly fade. Completing a manageable task — organizing a drawer or clearing a countertop—creates immediate progress.

Edit First

Equally important, Markinson says, is resisting the urge to buy storage solutions before addressing the root issue: excess belongings.

“Edit before you organize,” she explains. “Too often we run out and buy pretty bins and containers, but what we really need to do first is to look at what we have.”

This step requires honesty. Items should be sorted into keep, donate and discard piles. While it may be tempting to hold onto rarely used possessions, focusing on what is actively used and needed leads to a more streamlined result.

Seasonal Switch

Seasonal transitions also present a prime opportunity to reclaim space. As temperatures rise, bulky winter gear can be moved out of the way to make room for lighter, more frequently used items.

“Spring into summer is the perfect time to rotate wardrobes, bedding, and outdoor items,” Markinson says. “Store heavy winter coats, boots and accessories in less accessible spaces, and bring forward lighter, everyday items.”

She suggests taking advantage of underutilized areas, such as high shelves or the backs of doors. This rotation frees up valuable space and makes everyday routines more efficient.

Smart Systems

For families, organization is most effective when it becomes a shared responsibility rather than a solo effort. Markinson recommends creating systems that are simple enough for everyone in the household to follow.

“The best organizing systems are the ones you will actually use and maintain,” she says. “It’s important to get all family members on board.”

Designated spaces for commonly used items — whether in kitchens, playrooms or entryways — help reduce daily friction and keep clutter from returning.

Family Effort

Setting aside time to organize together can reinforce these systems. Whether it’s a weekly reset or seasonal refresh, involving everyone fosters accountability and consistency across shared spaces.

Daily Habits

Still, even the most thoughtfully organized home requires ongoing maintenance. Markinson is quick to point out that organization is not a one-time project but a long-term habit.

“Remember that organization is not a one time project,” she says. “It is an ongoing habit. Set aside time each day and/or a short block of time each week to return items to their designated places.”

This mindset shifts the focus from perfection to consistency, helping homeowners maintain order without major overhauls.

Lasting Impact

For those preparing to list a home, consistent organization reduces the stress of last-minute cleaning and ensures the property remains show-ready. For others, it simply creates a more functional and calming environment.

“With a thoughtful approach and consistent habits, you can create a space that feels lighter, calmer and ready for the season ahead,” Markinson says.

As spring unfolds, that sense of clarity — both physical and mental — may be the most valuable result of all.

Photo by Amanda Selby

This is the time to rotate wardrobes.

Photo by Annie Spratt Organization is an ongoing habit.

Photo by Eric Prouzet Everything should have a designated space and fit in the confinement of that space.

Photo by Christopher Burns Excess clutter can distract from a property’s best features.

Photo by Kris Gerhard The organization process does not need to be overwhelming.

Photo by Alexandru Acea Edit your belongings before you organize.

For many Long Island homeowners, the backyard has become more than a place to grill or garden.

Increasingly, it serves as an extension of the home — a private retreat for relaxation, entertaining and everyday living.

That was the goal for Kim and Theron Grant of Malverne when they hired Joseph DeVito, a realtor with Douglas Elliman and a designer specializing in interior, landscape and masonry projects, to completely reimagine their outdoor space.

“We decided Malverne is our place,” Kim said. “We wanted our home to be our sanctuary, and we realized the backyard was the next step.”

DeVito approached the project with a fullservice design philosophy, coordinating every aspect of the renovation, from masonry and landscaping to lighting and furnishings.

“I handle the entire process,” DeVito said. “I coordinate all the trades and create a vision that allows clients to enjoy

the transformation without managing all the details themselves.”

The project involved removing an aging patio, redesigning the layout, installing artificial turf, adding privacy plantings and flowering trees, and creating distinct spaces for dining, lounging and gathering around a fire pit.

“Most people dream about spaces like this and think they can’t have them,” DeVito said. “My job is to help them see what’s possible.”

Completed in about two months, the renovation dramatically changed both the appearance and functionality of the property.

“It feels like we added living

space to our home,” Kim said. “We now have separate areas for dining, relaxing and entertaining. We use the space every day.”

Visitors have noticed the difference as well.

“A lot of people say the backyard actually looks bigger now,” Theron said. “Because the space is designed so efficiently, it feels larger and much more functional.”

Among the homeowners’ favorite additions is a fountain, one of DeVito’s signature design elements.

“At first I wasn’t sure about it,” Theron said. “Now it’s one of my favorite things. The sound of the water is incredibly peaceful. It completely changes the atmosphere.”

For DeVito, creating beautiful outdoor spaces is about more than aesthetics or resale value.

“Yes, landscaping can add value to a home,” he said. “But the real value is how it changes the way people live. If you can create a space where people feel like they’re on vacation every day, that’s something truly special.

companies or purchases made through these

Realizing a need for sanctuary, Kim and Theron Grant turned their focus to their backyard with the help of Joseph DeVito.

Herald Content Studio articles are produced by the Herald's marketing division and independent of the newsroom. The Herald may be compensated by featured

articles, which does not constitute the Herald's endorsement.

Joseph DeVito’s vision for the Grants’ backyard maximized space and made it more usable.

Nestled along the South Shore waterfront, the Village of Lawrence is often recognized for its stately homes, oceanfront proximity, and access to New York City.

What many residents and visitors may not realize is the village owns and operates one of the region’s most distinctive recreational facilities: the Lawrence Yacht & Country Club.

Offering an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, pickleball courts, a marina, dining facilities, catering venues, a driving range with heated bays, golf simulator and a variety of social amenities, the club serves as both a recreational destination and a community gathering place.

Unlike many private clubs, membership is available to residents and non-residents, with village residents receiving preferred rates and benefits.

Mayor Samuel Nahmias believes the facility is one of Lawrence’s defining assets.

“The club is the crown jewel of the Village of Lawrence,” Nahmias said. “Lawrence is probably the only village in New York state that owns a country club and a marina.”

Recent renovations have already refreshed portions of the catering facility, which hosts weddings, celebrations and community events.

For Argento, the club’s value ultimately comes down to something less tangible than golf rounds or marina slips.

“Communities thrive when they provide opportunities for people to connect, stay active and enjoy their surroundings,” she said. “The Lawrence Yacht & Country Club does exactly that.”

As Lawrence continues to evolve, village officials, members and residents alike see the club as both a treasured tradition and a key part of the community’s future.

That unique combination has helped distinguish the club for generations. “Most villages don’t own country clubs, and there’s probably only a handful that own marinas as well,” he said.

That unique combination has helped distinguish the club for generations.

“Most villages don’t own country clubs, and there’s probably only a handful that own marinas as well,” he said.

The club’s roots stretch back more than a century, making it a local institution. Over time, it has evolved from seasonal destination into a yearround amenity.

The club’s roots stretch back more than a century, making it a local institution. Over time, it has evolved from a seasonal destination into a yearround amenity.

John Morrison, who recently began his first year as manager after serving as head golf professional, oversees daily operations, including golf, tennis, grounds maintenance and clubhouse activities.

“I’ve really tried to drive a member-first atmosphere here,” Morrison said. “We want to make sure they’re enjoying their time at the club. It’s very important for not only membership retention, but membership recruitment.”

appeals to all ages.”

Morrison said fostering that sense of community remains a key objective.

appeals to all ages.”

TTGolf remains the club’s most popular amenity.

“I’ve really tried to drive a member-first atmosphere here,” Morrison said. “We want to make sure they’re enjoying their time at the club. It’s very important for not only membership retention, but membership recruitment.”

Golf remains the club’s most popular amenity.

The facility currently has approximately 475 golf members and hosts roughly 26,000 rounds of golf annually.

In addition to golf, the club has expanded its recreational offerings.

he club is the crown jewel of the Village of Lawrence, plain and simple.

The facility currently has approximately 475 golf members and hosts roughly 26,000 rounds of golf annually.

The course itself is a major source of pride. “We put a lot of resources into the maintenance and quality of the golf course,” Morrison said. “Everybody who comes and plays here raves.” A big part of that success is due to the dedication and expertise of Golf Course Superintendent Adam Thomas, whose attention to detail and commitment to excellence help ensure the course remains in outstanding condition throughout the season and continues to earn praise from members and guests alike.

Maintaining that standard requires significant effort, he noted, particularly given the challenges posed by weather conditions, turf diseases and evolving agronomic practices.

really don’t understand just how difficult it is to maintain the quality of a golf course.”

For longtime member Carolyn Argento, Sales Manager of Douglas Elliman’s Long Beach and Merrick offices and licensed associate real estate broker, the club’s appeal extends far beyond athletics.

Mayor Samuel Nahmias

“My husband served as general manager of the club for 26 years,” Argento said. “Through him, I had the opportunity to see firsthand how important the club was to so many families in our community.”

Argento’s personal connection to the club spans decades. “When we were married in 1999, more than 300 club members attended our wedding,” she said. “That really speaks to the sense of community that exists there.”

After taking up golf in 2009, she became involved in club activities and served as president of the Ladies Club.

“I decided to learn golf later in life and quickly fell in love with the game,” Argento said. “Even after my husband moved to another club, I stayed because of the friendships and relationships that had become such an important part of my life.”

Maintaining that standard requires significant effort, he noted, particularly given the challenges posed by weather conditions, turf diseases and evolving agronomic practices.

“We have a very talented golf course superintendent,” Morrison said. “People

— Christy Hinko

As Lawrence continues to evolve, village officials, members and residents alike see the club as both a treasured tradition and a key part of the community’s future.

— Christy Hinko

Lawrence Yacht & Country Club: 5 facts from its history 1. It dates back to 1924.

Lawrence Yacht & Country Club: 5 facts from its history

1. It dates back to 1924.

The club began as the Lawrence Country Club, featuring an 18hole golf course designed by legendary architect Devereux Emmet.

“Always bringing up and developing new member programs, whether it be programs or social events, is important,” he said. “You want to have camaraderie within the club.”

Morrison said fostering that sense of community remains a key objective.

The club began as the Lawrence Country Club, featuring an 18hole golf course designed by legendary architect Devereux Emmet.

2. The village stepped in during the Depression.

That atmosphere has helped make the club a multigenerational institution.

“Always bringing up and developing new member programs, whether it be programs or social events, is important,” he said. “You want to have camaraderie within the club.”

2. The village stepped in during the Depression. After the property was foreclosed during the Great Depression, the Village of Lawrence acquired it in 1936.

“We’ve had fathers, sons coming back. We’ve had grandfathers,” Morrison said. “It’s definitely been a multigenerational club.” One member, he noted, has been playing at the club continuously since 1968.

That atmosphere has helped make the club a multigenerational institution.

“We’ve had fathers, sons coming back. We’ve had grandfathers,” Morrison said. “It’s definitely been a multigenerational club.” One member, he noted, has been playing at the club continuously since 1968.

Beyond recreation, village leaders view the facility as an important contributor to Lawrence’s quality of life and property values.

“One of the selling points of real estate here is that by living in Lawrence, it’s almost your inherent right to be part of the country club,” Nahmias said.

After the property was foreclosed during the Great Depression, the Village of Lawrence acquired it in 1936.

3. It evolved from public to member-supported.

3. It evolved from public to member-supported. The facility operated as a public course until 1960, when it became a membership-supported club under Village oversight.

The facility operated as a public course until 1960, when it became a membership-supported club under Village oversight.

4. The course was dramatically redesigned.

4. The course was dramatically redesigned. A major renovation completed in 1969 expanded the layout to its current 6,500-yard conﬁguration.

A major renovation completed in 1969 expanded the layout to its current 6,500-yard conﬁguration.

The club’s marina remains highly sought after as well, with limited availability and waiting lists for slips.

“I decided to learn golf later in life and quickly fell in love with the game,” Argento said. “Even after my husband moved to another club, I stayed because of the friendships and relationships that had become such an important part of my life.”

The club’s marina remains highly sought after as well, with limited availability and waiting lists for slips. Village officials recently secured a $5.5 million federal grant to support infrastructure improvements designed to accommodate larger vessels and strengthen marina operations.

Village officials recently secured a $5.5 million federal grant to support infrastructure improvements designed to accommodate larger vessels and strengthen marina operations.

She continues to play golf regularly while helping promote newer offerings.

5. It’s more than golf. Today, the property includes tennis and pickleball courts, a marina with 135 slips on Bannister Creek, and club facilities that remain an important part of Lawrence life.

5. It’s more than golf. Today, the property includes tennis and pickleball courts, a marina with 135 slips on Bannister Creek, and club facilities that remain an important part of

“With the addition of two pickleball courts, we are hoping to introduce more members to the fast-growing sport,” Argento said. “It’s social, fun and

She continues to play golf regularly while helping promote newer offerings.

“We have a very talented golf course superintendent,” Morrison said. “People really don’t understand just how difficult it is to maintain the quality of a golf course.”

“With the addition of two pickleball courts, we are hoping to introduce more members to the fast-growing sport,” Argento said. “It’s social, fun and

Additional enhancements are also under consideration. Nahmias said village officials are pursuing a longterm plan that includes improvements to catering facilities, expanded event space and additional guest accommodations.

“We’re going to be investing a significant amount of money,” he said.

Additional enhancements are also under consideration. Nahmias said village officials are pursuing a longterm plan that includes improvements to catering facilities, expanded event space and additional guest accommodations.

“We’re going to be investing a significant amount of money,” he said.

Carolyn Argento Lics, Associate Broker 516.623.4500 Carolyn.Argento@elliman.com

Carolyn Argento

The Village of Lawrence is one of few municipalities that own a marina and country club.

Carolyn Argento

An aerial view of Lawrence Yacht & Country Club

he club is the crown jewel of the Village of Lawrence, plain and simple.

Mayor Samuel Nahmias

The impeccably kept green at Lawrence Yacht & Country Club takes patience and skill.

The Village of Lawrence is one of few municipalities that own a marina and country club.

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Looking to make a strategic move in your real estate career? Call Carolyn Argento, Branch Manager at 516.763.6122 for a conﬁdential discussion of your career opportunities with Elliman.

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Branch Manager

Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker carolyn.argento@elliman.com elliman.com

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