Kilburn 1.8

Inspiration

Financial decisions affect more than a bank balance—they shape everyday life. We wanted to help people understand the risks and trade-offs behind a choice, using their own circumstances rather than generic advice.

What it does

Kilburn 1.8 builds a simple financial profile and assesses the user’s attitude toward risk. It presents aggressive, moderate and conservative perspectives on a decision, with explanations and a month-by-month simulation that can include unexpected financial setbacks.

Users can record their choice, change its status, and see completed decisions affect their monthly budget. A savings chart tracks progress toward their goal.

How we built it

We built the interface with React, TypeScript and Vite. Deterministic calculations handle financial scenarios, while a server-side Gemini integration provides contextual explanations. Browser storage preserves the prototype’s profile, decisions and savings history.

Challenges we ran into

The main challenges were keeping AI explanations consistent with calculated results, making the interface simple, and combining teammates’ work without losing features. We also had to distinguish recorded savings from hypothetical future scenarios.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

We connected decision assessment, simulation and budget tracking into one working journey. Users can explore a setback, choose a path, and see its budget impact. The combined version passes 34 automated tests.

What we learned

Useful financial tools need clear assumptions, understandable numbers and user control. We learned to separate risk preference from affordability and to use AI alongside verified calculations.

What's next for Kilburn 1.8

We want to add secure accounts, improve spending records, support more types of decisions, and test the experience with users. We also plan to refine the risk assessment and make simulations reflect more realistic financial circumstances.