Project: Blackberry

About our Blackberry Project

When our clients, Irene & Alex, first reached out to us back in 2023, they had big dreams for a kitchen remodel in their Port Coquitlam home. The very first thing we did was sit down together and talk numbers—finding a budget they felt good about before diving into any design ideas. We explored a few different options: Option 1 was an all-new kitchen layout with a partial mudroom by the garage entrance. As cool as that sounded, it just didn’t fit the budget.

So, we moved on to Option 2—refacing the existing cabinet boxes and swapping outdoors and hardware. This route offered some real savings, but we weren’t done comparing yet! We put Option 2 up against Option 3: brand new cabinets in the same layout as their current kitchen. Surprisingly, going for all-new cabinetry was only about 30% more expensive than refacing—and still within reach.

With all this info on hand, Irene & Alex made their decision confidently: new cabinets it was! From there, we got creative with materials and finishes while always keeping an eye on that budget. By the end of seven weeks, their kitchen had a fresh new look and way more storage space (plus they kept their existing floor tile for extra savings).

Fast forward to late 2025—our favorite duo came back with another project: updating their ensuite bathroom. Just like before, we kicked things off with honest budget conversations followed by some cost comparisons: curb-less shower vs curbed shower (the price difference surprised us!), porcelain slabs vs large format tiles (huge difference!), Dekton solid surface countertops vs quartz (plus considering savings from using an offcut). With decisions made and plans set, we got started—and six weeks later transformed their dated tub into a spacious walk-in shower with clever storage solutions like medicine cabinets hiding an awkward window. We even gave their robot vacuum/mop its own secret docking spot inside the vanity!

At Designs by KS, nothing makes us happier than being part of your home’s story—from brainstorming budgets to seeing your vision come to life. If you’re ready for your next project adventure, let’s plan it together!