(BPT) – The heart of the home is shifting outside, where the hottest trends and newest products do not simply feature the look of the indoors – but the functionality as well. Advances in all-weather materials and furnishings have made it possible for the outdoors to act as a seamless extension of the home. As these comforts have become the norm, homeowners are seeking other ways to extend their time outdoors and the usefulness of their exterior spaces. Here are the products and trends that will be influencing the look, feel and function of outdoor living spaces this year.