News & Media
Mortgage rates – Every Thursday, Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of May 28, 2026, were as follows:
The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.53%, up slightly from 6.51% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.87%, up slightly from 5.85% last week.
The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.
From xReal’s New AR Glasses to the Starlink Mini and more, the world of tech is buzzing with major news and moves. Stay connected with what’s happening from across the web in our weekly round-up. This week’s tech news spotlights product drops, social media updates, and the ever-growing world of AI.
The latest version of the Halide camera app is leaning hard into a growing backlash against overly processed smartphone photography. Halide Mark III introduces new film-inspired “Looks,” upgraded RAW editing tools, and a redesigned interface aimed at photographers who want more natural and intentional images. The app now supports editing RAW files from cameras made by Sony, Nikon, Canon, Fujifilm, Leica, and more, expanding its role beyond mobile photography. Developers at Lux Optics say the goal is to make iPhone photography feel more tactile and less algorithmically polished. In a world saturated with AI-enhanced images, there is suddenly real demand for photos that feel imperfect, textured, and human again. The camera app race is no longer just about sharper pictures; it is about restoring personality to digital photography.
Meta is expanding its subscription ambitions with new premium tiers across Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. The plans offer enhanced story tools, expanded customization, premium stickers, and increased access to Meta AI features like image and video generation. The rollout signals a broader shift happening across social media platforms as companies search for revenue streams beyond advertising alone. Instead of relying entirely on mass audiences, platforms increasingly want paying users who subscribe to advanced tools and exclusive experiences. Meta is also experimenting with higher-tier AI subscriptions designed for creators and businesses that rely heavily on generative tools. Social media is gradually evolving from free public squares into layered ecosystems with premium digital memberships.
The new xTool M2 Color Craft Laser combines printing, laser cutting, and engraving into a single desktop machine aimed at hobbyists, creators, and small business owners. The device supports CMYK inkjet printing alongside precision laser cutting, allowing users to produce stickers, custom packaging, engraved products, and personalized crafts from home. AI-assisted material detection automatically adjusts settings based on what the machine identifies, lowering the learning curve for beginners. As creator-driven commerce continues growing, products like this blur the line between crafting and small-scale manufacturing. The rise of Etsy shops, custom merch brands, and home-based side businesses has created demand for tools that feel industrial but accessible. The modern creator economy increasingly looks like a distributed network of miniature production studios.
YouTube is expanding automatic AI labeling tools for Shorts videos in an effort to improve transparency around synthetic and altered media. The platform says labels will help users identify when generative AI tools have significantly modified content, particularly for realistic-looking videos. As AI-generated media becomes more sophisticated, platforms are under growing pressure to distinguish authentic footage from manipulated content. The challenge is balancing creative freedom with public trust, especially as short-form video continues dominating online attention. These labels represent one of the clearest signs that AI-generated content is becoming normalized enough to require its own disclosure infrastructure. The future internet may not divide content into “real” and “fake,” but rather into “human-made,” “AI-assisted,” and everything in between.
Xreal has introduced the A01 AR glasses through its new sub-brand “X by Xreal,” continuing the industry-wide push toward lighter and more consumer-friendly augmented reality wearables. The glasses are designed to project large virtual displays while maintaining a slimmer, more wearable design than earlier AR headsets. Companies across the tech industry increasingly believe the next major computing platform may live directly on the user’s face rather than in their pocket. Unlike previous generations of bulky experimental hardware, these newer devices prioritize comfort, aesthetics, and everyday usability. The AR market is still searching for its breakthrough mainstream moment, but products like this suggest the industry is steadily refining the formula. Smart glasses are beginning to look less like prototypes and more like future accessories.
Oppo is experimenting with a playful new concept device featuring a magnetic wireless screen remote inspired by floating bubbles. The portable display is designed to function as a detached selfie monitor and secondary interface, expanding how users interact with mobile photography and content creation. While still highly experimental, the concept reflects broader trends toward modular and flexible device ecosystems. Smartphone makers increasingly understand that future hardware innovation may come less from raw specs and more from entirely new interaction models. Detached displays, wearable screens, and spatial computing concepts are all part of the same larger movement toward fluid digital experiences. The smartphone era is starting to fragment into smaller, more adaptive pieces of technology.
Rumors are swirling that SpaceX is developing a battery-powered version of its Starlink Mini satellite dish. Firmware discoveries suggest the compact Starlink Mini internet device could include an integrated battery system with multiple power modes. Additionally, the Starlink Mini would include USB-C charging and pass-through support. The biggest appeal of the Starlink Mini would be portability, especially for travelers, emergency responders, and remote workers who need reliable internet. Likewise, there is a lot of appeal for the Starlink Mini and its departure from traditional infrastructure. Right now, Starlink Mini users rely on external battery packs or wall outlets, making setups bulkier and less seamless. An all-in-one version of the Starlink Mini would push satellite internet closer to mainstream consumer convenience. Connectivity is increasingly becoming something users expect everywhere, even miles away from the nearest cell tower.
Now that May is coming to a close, there is no better way to celebrate the arrival of June than with some weekend fun. From Wine Tastings at Barnsdall Art Park to outdoor movie screenings and more, there is fun to be had for all. Check out the fun in your neighborhood happening May 29 through May 31.
When: May 29 – September 11, 2026
Where: Los Feliz
What: A beloved L.A. summer tradition, the wine tastings at Barnsdall Art Park blend boutique pours, sunset views, and laid-back city vibes high above Hollywood. Held on the west lawn of Hollyhock House, the 21+ evenings feature curated wines from Silverlake Wine, DJ sets, food trucks, and sweeping skyline views perfect for a summer date night. Guests can bring blankets and picnic set-ups, while proceeds from the event help support the park’s arts programming and preservation efforts.
When: May 29 – September 25
Where: Hollywood & Highland | Hollywood
What: Catch a movie under the stars at Ivation Hollywood during this free outdoor screening series held on the last Friday of each month from May through September. Guests can RSVP in advance and cosy up beneath the iconic archway with complimentary blankets, free popcorn, and discounted treats from the TCL Chinese Theatre concessions stand. It’s a classic Hollywood movie night with an easygoing summer vibe right in the heart of the city.
When: Until May 31
Where: Pomona
What: It’s the final weekend to experience the Los Angeles County Fair, the beloved Southern California tradition that has blended old-school charm with modern festival fun since 1921. From livestock competitions and local produce showcases to carnival rides, wine tastings, art installations, and a roller-skating rink, this year’s “Play Your Way” theme transforms the fairgrounds into a giant celebration of creativity and carefree energy. If you’ve been meaning to go, this is your last chance to catch the fair before it wraps for the season.
When: May 30 – August 22
Where: Getty Museum | Westside
What: Summer nights at the Getty Center get even better with this free concert series pairing hilltop sunset views with cutting-edge music. This year’s Saturday-night lineup features performances from artists including aja monet, HUnx and His Punx, LEENALCHI, Horse Lords, and Laurel Halo. Arrive early to explore the museum’s exhibits, grab dinner, and settle in before the music begins against one of the city’s most stunning backdrops.
When: May 30
Where: Santa Monica
What: Tap into your inner child at this day-to-night dance party taking over the Santa Monica Pier with DJs, immersive art, carnival games, and classic boardwalk treats. Set against an oceanfront backdrop, the high-energy event features performances from artists including AMÉMÉ, Rhye, Franker Wiedermann, AWEN, Xinobi, Notre Dame, and Darina Chuz. Blending festival vibes with seaside nostalgia, it’s part rave, part carnival, and pure summer energy.
When: May 29 – MAY 30
Where: Catalina Island
What: Inspired by the unforgettable Step Brothers quote, the Catalina Wine Mixer returns to Catalina Island for its 11th year of music, wine, and beachside chaos. The weekend kicks off with a party at the historic Catalina Casino Ballroom, plus a screening of the cult-favorite comedy at the Avalon Theatre and a late-night beach bash. Festivities continue at Descanso Beach Club with wine tastings, lawn games, live music, and DJ sets from artists including MEDUZA and MC4D. It’s equal parts island getaway, dance party, and movie-fueled fever dream.
When: May 30 – May 31
Where: Downtown Burbank
What: Downtown Burbank transforms into an open-air artisan marketplace during this free biannual arts festival curated by Jackalope Arts. More than 170 hand-selected local makers line San Fernando Boulevard with everything from original art, ceramics, and jewelry to home decor, fashion, and gourmet treats. Alongside the shopping, visitors can enjoy live music and family-friendly activities, including free craft workshops for kids. It’s a lively, creative weekend celebrating independent artists and the charm of shopping local.
When: Until September 4
Where: Studio City
What: Fans of The Brady Bunch can step inside television history when the iconic Studio City home opens for immersive self-guided tours. Recently designated a Historic-Cultural Monument and famously restored through A Very Brady Renovation, the house has been meticulously recreated down to its groovy kitchen, wood-paneled study, and nostalgia-filled bedrooms. The intimate experience allows guests to wander through the legendary TV home at their own pace while supporting Wags and Walks through ticket proceeds. While the premium ticket price is geared toward devoted fans, the chance to step into one of TV’s most recognizable homes makes it a true pop-culture bucket-list experience.
When: May 30
Where: Los Angeles Equestrian Center | 480 Riverside Drive, Burbank
What: Shop, browse, and connect with fellow horse lovers at the Spring Trading Post at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center. This relaxed outdoor marketplace brings together local equestrians, small businesses, and vintage vendors offering everything from gently used tack and riding apparel to handmade goods, art, and home décor. Set in a shaded, park-like space with free parking, the event is designed as a laid-back community gathering perfect for both serious riders and casual shoppers alike.
When: May 29 – May 30
Where: 2331 Borchard Rd, Thousand Oaks
What: Discover the beauty of exotic blooms at the annual Orchid Show and Sale hosted by the Conejo Orchid Society at the Newbury Park Library. This free two-day event features stunning orchid displays, affordable plants for sale, live repotting demonstrations, and expert guidance on orchid care and growing techniques. Visitors can also shop for companion plants, succulents, and gardening supplies while learning more about one of the world’s most fascinating plant families.
When: May 30
Where: 668 E Harbor Blvd, Ventura
What: Take in sweeping ocean views at the Ventura Beachfront Run on May 30, 2026, featuring a half-marathon, 10K, 5K, and Kids Fun Run along Ventura’s scenic coastline. Starting near the Ventura Pier, the flat course winds along the oceanfront promenade and stretches of Pacific Coast Highway, making it ideal for both competitive runners and casual participants. All racers receive a commemorative T-shirt and finisher’s medal, adding a little extra reward to the seaside miles.
When: Until May 31
Where: Ventura Harbor Village, 1583 Spinnaker Dr, Ventura
What: Spend the afternoon by the water at Ventura Harbor Village with free live music and laid-back coastal vibes all season long. This weekend’s featured performer, Pier 101, brings upbeat sounds to the harbor from 1 to 4 p.m., creating the perfect backdrop for strolling, dining, and soaking up the sunshine. Be sure to check Ventura Harbor Village for the latest schedule updates before heading out.
The Downtown LA dining scene continues to heat up the city. While Downtown LA has always had a cinematic skyline, lately, it has become more than a place to work, catch a show, or head to a game. With new residential towers, adaptive reuse projects, and mixed-use developments continuing to reshape the area, DTLA is growing into a true live-work-dine destination. The DTLA Alliance describes the area as an “ever-changing skyline” with projects ranging from residential towers to industrial conversions, while the Downtown Community Plan adopted in 2024 is intended to support future residential growth and increased density.
That evolution is showing up at the table. From destination tasting menus to neighborhood pasta counters and stylish hotel restaurants, Downtown LA dining continues to feel more elevated, diverse, and essential.
Location: 100 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA, 90012, US
Located on the 10th floor of Conrad Los Angeles, San Laurel brings chef José Andrés’s polished Spanish cooking to one of DTLA’s most striking dining rooms. Expect elegant dishes like gambas al ajillo, hiramasa crudo, and asparagus with romesco. Save room for the inventive desserts, which give the meal a memorable finish.
Location: 332 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA, 90013, US
Maccheroni Republic remains a Historic Core favorite for fresh pasta at approachable prices. The menu features more than two dozen pasta options, including pappardelle with wild boar ragu and agnolotti with osso buco. It is cozy, reliable, and ideal for a casual Downtown dinner.
Location: 1254 S Figueroa St, Fl 8, Los Angeles, CA, 90015, US
Lucky Mizu brings high-design Japanese dining to the Level 8 complex near Crypto.com Arena. The menu includes wagyu shabu-shabu, seiro mushi, sushi, and sashimi, making it versatile for groups. The energetic interior gives it a nightlife-friendly edge.
Location: 1109 E 12th St, Los Angeles, CA, 90021, US
Sora Craft Kitchen is a one-man Fashion District restaurant from fine-dining veteran Okay Inak. The Turkish-influenced menu includes icli kofte, garlic-spiced kebab, grilled branzino, and creative desserts. It feels personal, refined, and quietly special.
Location: 1120 S Grand Ave, Suite 101, Los Angeles, CA 90015, USA
Pine and Crane’s Downtown location brings Taiwanese comfort food to South Park. Guests can enjoy beef rolls, pan-fried buns, daikon rice cakes, noodles, and rice dishes. The expansive patio makes it one of the most appealing outdoor options for Downtown LA dining.
Location: 118 West 4th Street, Los Angeles, California 90013, United States
Chef Josef Centeno’s Le dräQ reimagines favorites from Bar Amá, Bäco Mercat, and Takoria. The menu includes wagyu short rib bäco, potato croquetas, mojo camarones, and weekend brunch dishes. It is playful, nostalgic, and distinctly DTLA.
Location: 900 West Olympic Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90015
Leña at Sendero offers Argentine-style steakhouse dining with sweeping 24th-floor views. Prime and wagyu cuts anchor the menu, while starters like wagyu carpaccio and chori-pan add polish. It is a strong choice for a dramatic Downtown LA Dining night out.
Location: 1254 South Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, California 90015
Ray Garcia’s Qué Bárbaro brings South American wood-fired cooking to Level 8. The menu features molten cheese, grilled picanha, shrimp, and shareable asado platters. Add a mezcal cocktail, and it becomes an easy date-night pick.
Location: 108 W 2nd St Apt 104, Los Angeles, CA, 90012, U
Badmaash blends Bollywood energy, pop art, and modern Indian cooking. Known for dishes like chicken tikka poutine, butter chicken, and fiery vindaloo, it delivers bold flavors in a lively setting. It remains one of DTLA’s most personality-filled restaurants.
Location: 939 South Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, California 90015
Florence by the Water brings upscale Greek and Eastern Mediterranean flavors to Hotel Figueroa. Bluefin tuna “dolmades,” meze, wagyu souvlaki, and duck shawarma anchor the menu. The poolside setting gives it a stylish hotel-dining feel.
Location: 700 W 7th St Ste G600, Los Angeles, CA, 90017, US
Hatch is a sleek subterranean yakitori spot at The Bloc. Skewers like chicken meatball, eggplant, lamb lollipops, and chicken hearts are served alongside cocktails, beer, and wine. It is especially convenient before or after a movie upstairs.
Location: 770 S Grand Ave Ste A, Los Angeles, CA, 90017, US
Joyce brings color, warmth, and Southern-leaning seafood to Downtown. The menu includes crudo, ceviche, oysters, cornbread with sorghum butter, and whole-fried game hen. It works beautifully for date night or dinner with friends.
Location: CITY MARKET SOUTH, 1124 San Julian St, Los Angeles, CA 90015, USA
Rossoblu continues to serve some of the city’s best Northern Italian cooking. Handmade pastas, wood-fired meats, porchetta, and branzino make the menu feel generous and celebratory. The high-ceiling dining room only adds to the occasion.
Location: 521 West 7th Street, Los Angeles, California 90014
Q remains one of Downtown’s premier omakase counters. Chef Hiroyuki Naruke’s precise sushi experience includes seasonal dishes followed by beautifully prepared nigiri. For serious sushi lovers, it is still a major DTLA destination.
Location: 1320 E 7th St #100, Los Angeles, CA 90021, USA
Pizzeria Bianco brings chef Chris Bianco’s celebrated wood-fired pizzas to the Arts District. Simple ingredients, careful technique, and beautifully blistered crusts define the experience. It is relaxed, focused, and consistently excellent.
Location: 777 S Alameda St Building 1, Suite 114, Los Angeles, CA 90021, USA
Kato is one of the most acclaimed fine-dining restaurants in Los Angeles. Chef Jon Yao’s tasting menu explores Asian diasporic cooking through refined technique, luxury ingredients, and deeply personal storytelling. For elevated Downtown LA dining, it remains a true standout.
As Downtown continues to evolve, its restaurants are helping define the neighborhood’s next chapter. From rooftops and hotel dining rooms to intimate counters and bustling patios, DTLA is no longer just a place to pass through. It is a place to stay, explore, and eat exceptionally well with a myriad of luxe Downtown LA dining spots.
For parents, the Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD) is tied to one of the most sought-after zip codes in the country. Offering nationally ranked academics, specialized career pathways, and a diverse array of extracurricular activities, it is no surprise Southern California parents want their kids to have the premier BHUSD educactional experience.
However, securing a home within this prestigious school district requires navigating a complex and highly competitive real estate landscape. On the Westside of Los Angeles, a single street can mean the difference between a multi-million dollar property zoned for a top-tier municipal school system or one that falls into a completely different district. Understanding the geographical boundaries and financial implications of the “zip code premium” is essential for families looking to make a calculated investment in both their children’s future and their property’s equity.
When searching for homes for sale in Beverly Hills Unified School District, many buyers fall into the “BHPO Trap”.
Beverly Hills Post Office (BHPO) refers to the hillsides located directly north of the city limits. Properties in this enclave enjoy the prestigious “Beverly Hills, CA 90210” mailing address, but they sit outside the actual municipal boundaries of the City of Beverly Hills. Because school district boundaries follow municipal borders rather than postal zip codes, homes in BHPO are zoned for the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) rather than BHUSD.
To illustrate just how stark this boundary line is, consider the map below:
This boundary line creates a massive real estate discrepancy. Two identical luxury estates can sit just doors apart on the same street, yet the home located inside the official city line will command a significantly higher premium solely due to its guaranteed access to Beverly Hills schools.
The value premium associated with BHUSD is driven by an independent, hyper-localized funding model. Unlike larger, stretched school districts that rely heavily on fluctuating state education budgets, BHUSD benefits directly from Beverly Hills’ independent municipal tax base and the robust support of the Beverly Hills Education Foundation (BHEF).
This consistent financial backing allows the district to maintain state-of-the-art facilities, keep class sizes small, and attract top-tier educators. For luxury real estate buyers, paying the property premium to live within BHUSD borders often represents a highly analytical financial play rather than just an emotional lifestyle choice.
Southern California Residents will use money that would have otherwise gone to private school tuitions toward a home in the BHUSD. And this makes sense considering private school tuition can cost upwards of 30K – 50K per year, per child. So this is something for parents to take into calculation.
Some educational experts extoll the value of schooling as the ultimate decider of a child’s success – or, at least, as a very heavy indicator. Others point more to the family environment. However, we’d all agree that schooling has at least SOME impact on the lives of our kids. And so parents do what they can. Some pay steep private school tuitions, while others compete for a seat at the best public schools. The question, though, is whether or not it’s really worth it? What’s the real difference between an “elite” vs “average” school district?
The educational framework of Beverly Hills is meticulously structured to guide students seamlessly from early childhood through high school graduation. The district’s unique neighborhood-centric model includes highly acclaimed K-8 schools – such as Beverly Vista, Horace Mann, and Hawthorne – before students graduate into the historic Beverly Hills High School.
BHUSD is widely recognized for offering programs that rival elite private institutions, including:
Living within the city limits ensures that children can walk or take short commutes to these neighborhood hubs, fostering a tightly-knit, secure community environment that defines the Beverly Hills lifestyle.
A: Homes located within the official Beverly Hills city limits are legally zoned for the Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD). Homes in the BHPO area carry a Beverly Hills mailing address but fall geographically under the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) jurisdiction.
A: Generally, no. BHUSD admission requires verified proof of primary residency within the official municipal boundaries of the City of Beverly Hills. While inter-district permit applications exist, they are subjected to highly specific municipal criteria and are rarely granted for general enrollment.
A: Properties located within the official school district lines consistently command a premium of 15% to 25% compared to similar properties located just across the border in neighboring districts. Furthermore, these homes historically show stronger equity preservation and price stability during real estate market shifts.
One minute you’re looking out at Wilshire traffic, and the next you realize you’ve drifted to the other side of the boulevard without ever having the mental jolt of “crossing the street.” That, more than any single artwork, may be the first real thrill of LACMA’s new wing.
Officially called the David Geffen Galleries, the building opened in April 2026 and is now the museum’s new home for its permanent collection, all arranged on one elevated level in a way that feels distinctly Los Angeles: open, fluid, and a little bit cinematic.
Designed by Peter Zumthor, the David Geffen Galleries stretch 900 feet and sit nearly 30 feet above street level, turning what could have been a straightforward expansion into something stranger and more memorable. Time Out put its finger on the building’s quiet magic trick: the portion that crosses Wilshire does not read like a bridge at all. It simply feels like more museum. That matters because it changes your whole relationship to the visit. Instead of moving room to room in the usual dutiful way, you meander. The city stays present at the edges. Art, architecture, and Los Angeles traffic all share the same frame.
LACMA leans into that looseness. The David Geffen Galleries have no true front or back, and visitors can enter from either side before flowing into a nonhierarchical installation organized around oceans rather than strict timelines or departmental borders. Light is handled with unusual sensitivity: brighter terrace galleries open toward the city, deeper interior rooms protect more fragile works, and high-tech metallic curtains filter views of Wilshire without cutting them off completely. Even one of the most talked-about moments inside, a Matisse set against an ultrawide window at the western tip, works because the building allows Los Angeles itself to feel like part of the exhibition.
This is where the new wing becomes especially compelling for local readers. LACMA places itself squarely in Hancock Park on Miracle Mile, and the museum’s own neighborhood guide treats a visit as part of a broader day in the area, not an isolated cultural errand. For people in Hancock Park, Windsor Square, or nearby Beverly Hills, the David Geffen Galleries feel less like a tourist stop and more like a meaningful addition to the local rhythm, somewhere you could revisit after lunch, before dinner, or on a low-key Saturday when you want the city to feel a little more elevated. Beverly Hills hospitality guides already position LACMA among the area’s major art-and-culture destinations, which tells you plenty about its pull.
The name matters, too. David Geffen gave $150 million toward the project, the largest single cash gift from an individual in LACMA’s history, which is why the building carries his name. But what gives the David Geffen Galleries their staying power is not donor lore. It is the way the place actually works once you are inside it. There are 3.5 acres of shaded public space below, seven pavilions with visitor amenities, and a museum experience that feels less segmented and more alive to weather, time of day, and the city beyond the glass. In a part of Los Angeles already defined by beautiful homes, strong design culture, and a polished social circuit, the David Geffen Galleries add something more lasting: a reason to come back, wander again, and see the neighborhood with fresh eyes.
There’s something unmistakably Los Angeles about summer by the pool. Maybe it’s the sound of palm trees moving in the breeze, the glow of golden hour bouncing off the water, or the way outdoor spaces become the center of everyday life this time of year. Around here, the pool is not just a place to cool off. It’s an extension of the home itself.
The best luxury outdoor spaces feel effortless, layered, and lived in without trying too hard. If you’re looking for fresh luxury pool design ideas this season, the focus should be less on overstyling and more on creating a space that feels relaxed, elevated, and ready for long afternoons outdoors.
The easiest way to elevate your pool area is by thinking less “backyard” and more boutique hotel. Start with comfortable lounge seating that actually invites people to stay awhile. Oversized chaise loungers with plush neutral cushions instantly create a more refined atmosphere, especially when paired with teak, travertine, or natural wood finishes.
Umbrellas are another detail that can completely shift the mood of the space. Classic canvas styles in cream, sand, or faded olive tend to feel timeless and work beautifully with the softer palette many Los Angeles homes naturally lean toward.
One of the most overlooked luxury pool design ideas is texture. A pool area can quickly feel cold or overly modern without the right balance of materials.
Layering in elements like linen outdoor pillows, woven lanterns, ceramic planters, or stone side tables softens the space and gives it character. Even a simple outdoor rug beneath a seating area can make everything feel more intentional.
In Southern California, where indoor-outdoor living is part of the lifestyle, these details help create continuity between the home’s interior and exterior spaces.
Nothing makes a pool feel more luxurious than surrounding it with thoughtful landscaping. The good news is that you don’t need overly tropical greenery to create impact.
Olive trees, lavender, agave, and tall ornamental grasses all work beautifully in Los Angeles ‘ climate while still feeling elevated and low-maintenance. The overall goal is to create softness around the hardscape without making the area feel crowded.
Large statement planters near lounge spaces or entry points also help frame the area and instantly make it feel more curated.
The best poolside setups are designed for more than swimming. They’re built for gathering.
A small outdoor bar cart stocked with glassware, citrus, and chilled sparkling water adds an effortless entertaining element. If space allows, incorporate a dining area nearby with layered lighting for evening dinners outdoors.
As the sun goes down, candles, lanterns, and subtle landscape lighting help the entire space transition naturally into nighttime entertaining without losing that laid-back California feel.
While summer is often associated with bright colors, most sophisticated pool spaces keep the palette restrained. Warm whites, sandy neutrals, soft sage, charcoal, and faded blues tend to age beautifully and allow the surrounding landscape to stand out.
The most successful luxury pool design ideas are the ones that feel personal rather than overly trend-driven. After all, Los Angeles summer living is less about perfection and more about atmosphere.
At the end of the day, a beautifully styled pool area should feel like an escape you never have to leave.
| Stocks moved higher this week despite continued volatility in interest rates and oil prices. Strong corporate earnings, particularly from technology and AI-related companies, helped boost investor confidence, while easing concerns over tensions in the Middle East also supported the markets. Unfortunately, inflation fears have caused Treasury yields to rise, which has increased mortgage rates. They are at their highest levels in nearly two years.
Mortgage rates – Every Thursday, Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of May 21, 2026, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.51%, up from 6.36% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.85%, up from 5.71% last week. The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.
Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 50,579.70, up 2.1% from 49,526.17 last week. It is up 5.2% year-to-date from 48,063.29 on December 31, 2025. The S&P 500 closed the week at 7,437.47, up 0.1% from 7,408.50 last week. The S&P is up 8.2% year-to-date from 6,845.50 on December 31, 2025. The Nasdaq closed the week at 26,343.97, down 0.1% from 26,225.15 last week. It is up 12.8% year-to-date from 23,241.99 on December 31, 2025. U.S. Treasury Bonds – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.56% down slightly from 4.59% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 5.07%, down slightly from 5.12% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields. Home sales figures are released on the third week of the month for the previous month by the National Association of Realtors and the California Association of Realtors. Here is a summary of the April existing home sales reports. U.S. existing-home sales – April 2026 – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 4.02 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in April, up from 3.98 million in March, and unchanged from the number of homes sold last April. Year-over-year home sales were down 1% from the number of homes sold last March. The median price paid for a home in the U.S. in March was $417,700, up 0.9% year-over-year from $414,000 last April. California existing-home sales – The median price soared 7.1% in April as inventory tightened – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 275,580 on an adjusted annualized basis in April, up 4.1% from 264,810 annualized sales last April. The statewide median price paid for a home was $914,810 in April, up 7.1% from $889,190 in March. Year-over-year, April’s median price was up 0.4% from $911,400 one year ago. The increase in the median price was attributed to more homes selling in the higher range than the lower range, as higher price range buyers have been less impacted by gas prices, inflation, etc. They also have more money in the stock markets, which are at or near record highs. Below is the housing data for Southern California by County.
Have a great weekend! |
Mortgage rates – Every Thursday, Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of May 21, 2026, were as follows:
The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.51%, up from 6.36% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.85%, up from 5.71% last week.
The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.
The world of tech and media is always abuzz, but it can be tricky to stay connected. That’s why we’re wrapping up the top headlines happening all across the web. From Google’s Wear OS 7 to SpaceX’s potentially massive IPO and more. Find out the latest tech news in this week’s blog!
Speculation surrounding a potential SpaceX IPO is once again heating up, reigniting interest across both Silicon Valley and Wall Street. While no formal public offering has been announced, investor appetite remains enormous as the company continues expanding its dominance in satellite internet, launch services, and space infrastructure. Analysts believe any future IPO would likely focus on Starlink rather than the rocket business itself, allowing investors direct exposure to the rapidly growing satellite communications market. The excitement highlights how space technology has evolved from a niche industry into a central pillar of the modern tech economy. Private aerospace companies are increasingly viewed less like science experiments and more like foundational infrastructure businesses. Space may still feel infinite, but investors clearly see it as very monetizable.
This year’s Google I/O conference made one thing abundantly clear: Android is no longer just a mobile operating system—it is becoming an AI-driven ecosystem. Google announced new AI-powered widgets, contextual shortcuts, and Studio tools designed to make Android devices more predictive and personalized. Instead of waiting for users to search or navigate manually, the platform increasingly attempts to anticipate needs in real time. Gemini AI is woven throughout the experience, quietly powering smarter interactions across apps and services. The broader strategy reflects a shift happening across consumer tech, where software aims to behave more like an assistant than a static interface. Smartphones are evolving into systems that attempt to think alongside their users.
Google is bringing Gemini AI directly into YouTube Shorts, allowing creators to remix and transform videos with generative AI tools. The new features let users alter visuals, experiment with styles, and create new content variations without requiring advanced editing skills. It is part of a broader effort to make AI-assisted creativity more accessible to mainstream users rather than limiting it to professionals. As short-form video platforms become increasingly competitive, AI is emerging as the next major battleground for creator tools. The distinction between editing and generating content continues to blur with every platform update. Social media feeds are beginning to feel less like captured reality and more like collaborative digital canvases.
Insta360 is expanding beyond cameras with the launch of the Mic Pro, a wireless microphone system designed for creators and mobile production workflows. The standout feature is its integrated E Ink display, which provides battery and connection information while conserving power. Insta360 also included a microphone array system aimed at improving voice clarity in unpredictable environments. As creator culture continues to dominate online media, audio quality is becoming just as important as video quality for influencers, podcasters, and streamers. Companies are increasingly building compact, creator-focused ecosystems rather than standalone devices. The modern creator toolkit is evolving into something highly portable, modular, and deeply optimized for constant content production.
Android 17 is introducing a new “Continue On” feature designed to make switching between devices feel more seamless. Similar to handoff systems seen in competing ecosystems, the feature allows users to move apps, tasks, and workflows across phones, tablets, and other connected hardware without interruption. The update reflects Google’s broader effort to strengthen Android’s multi-device experience as users increasingly operate across several screens throughout the day. Ecosystem continuity has become one of the most important competitive areas in consumer technology. Tech companies no longer just sell individual gadgets—they sell how well those gadgets communicate with one another. The future of computing feels increasingly less tied to a single device and more tied to fluid digital movement.
Google also used I/O 2026 to unveil Wear OS 7, focusing heavily on battery life improvements and smarter widget functionality. The Wear OS 7 update aims to make smartwatches feel less demanding and more practical for everyday use. Likewise, the updates to the Wear OS 7 improve power efficiency across background tasks and health tracking features. Enhanced widgets on the Wear OS 7 are designed to surface more contextual information without forcing users to constantly open apps. As wearables mature, the emphasis is shifting away from flashy novelty toward subtle convenience and long-term usability. Battery anxiety remains one of the biggest pain points in wearable tech. Of course, updates like that of Google’s Wear OS 7 showcase that companies are finally treating endurance as a core feature. The best wearable technology increasingly succeeds by quietly disappearing into daily life.
Volvo and Google showcased deeper AI integration for vehicles during Google I/O, including Gemini-powered driving and parking assistance features in the upcoming EX60. The system uses cameras and AI interpretation to assist with parking, navigation, and contextual in-car support. Rather than relying solely on rigid commands, Gemini is designed to support more conversational and adaptive interaction while driving. Automakers increasingly view AI as central to the next generation of vehicle experiences, especially as electric and software-defined cars continue evolving. Cars are steadily transforming from transportation tools into connected computing environments. The dashboard of the future may feel less like a control panel and more like a dialogue.
