Designer Q&A: Creating Inviting Outdoor Living with Julie Rootes

At Galanter & Jones, we love seeing how design professionals bring warmth and comfort outdoors—transforming patios, gardens, and terraces into true extensions of the home. We recently caught up with interior designer Julie Rootes, who shared the story behind a stunning, multi-functional outdoor space she created for a longtime client. Below, Julie discusses her vision, process, and why Galanter & Jones heated furniture became a key element in this California retreat.

Q&A with Designer Julie Rootes

G&J: Can you tell us a little about this project and what made it special?

Julie Rootes: This project was a continuation of work we’d done for a beloved longtime client. After remodeling the home, we were invited back to reimagine the exterior—crafting an outdoor environment as thoughtful and functional as the interiors.

Because our client has a large local family and a passion for entertaining, every detail needed to support a range of moments—from quiet morning coffee to sunny poolside afternoons and lively dinner parties under the stars. The result is an expansive, versatile space that celebrates connection and California living at its finest.

G&J: What was your vision for this outdoor area?

Julie: My client’s love of gardening and plants became a driving force in the design, shaping not just how the space looks, but how she’d truly live in it.

The goal was to capture her personality: elevated and chic, yet casual and approachable—never fussy. She’s a bit of a younger Martha Stewart, so I imagined her tending the garden, savoring coffee on the sofa, and hosting relaxed but stylish dinners.

G&J: What drew you to incorporate Galanter & Jones heated furniture into this project?

Julie: My client appreciates pieces that are both unique and highly functional, which made Galanter & Jones an ideal fit. Since the outdoors was designed as a true extension of the interiors, it was important to choose furnishings that could adapt to different moments but still feel cohesive.

“[We] appreciate pieces that are both unique and highly functional, which made Galanter & Jones an ideal fit.”

The heated furniture offered the perfect balance of comfort and practicality, letting the space be enjoyed on cool mornings and evenings. Their low-maintenance design was also key, ensuring the pieces would be effortless to care for over time. Beyond function, Galanter & Jones’ clean, versatile aesthetic blends beautifully with a variety of outdoor styles, adding warmth and comfort without competing with other furnishings.

G&J: What are your top tips for creating an inviting, comfortable outdoor space—no matter the size?

Julie: Treat your outdoor space with the same intention you’d bring to any interior room. Ultimately, aim to create a space that’s as inviting and livable as any room inside your home.

• Design it to be multi-functional, so it adapts easily to quiet mornings, family gatherings, or evenings with friends.
• Invest in “workhorse” fabrics and pieces that stand up to the elements.
• While outdoor furnishings can feel like a big investment, quality pieces pay for themselves over time. The best selections elevate the look and maintain their comfort and durability, season after season.

G&J: Are there any design “rules” you always follow—or love to break?

Julie: Function and form should always work hand in hand. An outdoor space should look beautiful and be highly usable, so every piece we select needs to support both.

“True cohesion isn’t about uniformity—it’s about flow and curating different moments within the space.”

I love breaking the “rule” that everything must come from the same vendor or collection. True cohesion isn’t about uniformity—it’s about flow and curating different moments within the space. Mixing and matching thoughtfully lets you layer in personality, texture, and interest, while still ensuring harmony.

A perfect example is incorporating Galanter & Jones. Your heated seating combines sleek design with perfect ergonomics, solving the challenge of comfort on cooler mornings and evenings. They’re fresh and unexpected, yet blend seamlessly with other furnishings—proving that function and form can coexist beautifully.

G&J: How do you help clients get the most out of their outdoor spaces year-round?

Julie: Whether it’s seamless indoor-outdoor flow, innovative pieces like Galanter & Jones seating, or anticipating how a family will use the space, we focus on blending style with function. The result is an environment that feels both elevated and effortless—one that invites connection, celebrates nature, and truly enhances daily living.

Inspired by Julie’s approach?

Explore our heated furniture collection and see how you can bring warmth, comfort, and connection to your own outdoor space—year-round.

Experience the magic of heated furniture first-hand at our San Francisco showroom and other locations!