The blend of indoor-outdoor living isn't just a trend. It's here to stay.

According to a study of more than 300 architects and designers -- "The Future of Home Design," conducted by the New Home Trends Institute in collaboration with Pro Builder magazine -- 58% of respondents said their design choices will be influenced by "the connection to the outdoors/nature," and 45% said outdoor entertaining will get more attention too.

*Benefits

"An outdoor living space can increase the usable square footage of your home, allowing for larger gatherings or more storage options," says interior designer and real estate investor Alex Capozzolo, co-founder of SD House Guys. "It also adds a nice aesthetic to any room, making it look larger and more inviting."

Other benefits of indoor-outdoor living spaces include being able to enjoy fresh air inside and outside your home; increased natural light, which can save you money on your electricity bills; increased privacy, since you don't have to share your private outdoor space; and easy upkeep, since outdoor areas are often less fuss to clean and maintain.

*Designing for Inside-Outside Living

"A properly designed and executed outdoor living space gives you that outdoor connection without sacrificing comfort," says Clint Childress. Childress is director of residential markets for commercial shade manufacturer Draper, Inc., and a LEED accredited professional.

It helps to think ahead about how you'll utilize your indoor-outdoor setup. For example, if you want to use it for entertaining, such as cooking and eating outdoors, you'll need a grill, tables and seating, as well as plugs for fans, lighting and electronics. If the outdoor space is going to be a garden for quiet sitting, reading or napping, you'll likely need less setup.

For bringing the outdoors in, Capozzolo suggests adding plants, rocks, wood and other outdoor materials into the design of your home, which he says "can help blur the line between indoor and outdoor living."

While you want to maximize indoor and outdoor spaces, make sure each space has definite boundaries, such as landscaping or gates, between areas. Installing a privacy screen can create boundaries and add a sense of intimacy.

Invest in quality furniture and accessories for your outdoor space, too. "Make sure your outdoor space is inviting by adding comfortable furniture, plants, and decorations to create a cozy atmosphere," says Capozzolo.

*Challenges

One of the challenges of outdoor living is managing the brightness, especially on sunny days. Childress recommends outdoor shades, which he says can enclose areas and help shield against glare, bugs and bad weather.

"Outdoor shades are motorized and retractable, so unlike permanent structures you can raise the shades when you want the space to be fully open," says Childress. He notes that fans and heaters can be used in the space to make time spent outdoors comfortable.

It's also important to be mindful of protecting your gear and your space. Capozzolo advises covering furniture and planters during storms and using lights, locks and other security measures to keep your outdoor area safe from intruders.

*Dream Big

Whether you have a sunroom, covered patio or backyard oasis, make sure you don't overcrowd the area. Too much stuff, including knickknacks and clutter, will detract from your goal of designing a fun and functional indoor-outdoor space.

Maintain the space and clean it often. Wipe down tables and chairs, sweep the ground and keep your retreat inviting for you and your guests.

If you need inspiration for creating the perfect indoor-outdoor look, check out social media sites such as Pinterest and Instagram. Home and garden magazines are another resource for ideas.

Childress recommends working with experienced companies, buying products that are meant for the outdoors and paying attention to details such as product testing and quality. Smart investments now will last a long time.

"Dream big," he says. "The only limit to what you can accomplish is imagination."