An old friend moved into a towering Victorian-style home over a century old. The first year she lived there, she did not touch or change a thing. Her friends thought that perhaps she loved everything about the house so much she could not bring herself to change a thing, but when she threw a small party and her friends were gathered and chatting in the kitchen, they realized that their friend was simply frightened to death about diving into a renovation.

The homeowner was frightened to alter anything because the house was so old. Clearly, the kitchen needed plenty of work. Right then and there, the friends stepped up to brainstorm an appropriate set of kitchen renovation plans.

Homeowners have an idea that old houses are extremely frustrating to renovate, but this perception is not all true. No matter what the age of a house, renovations in the kitchen usually turn out be cost effective because they add equity to a home. A good renovation unites old-style charm with modern convenience. Plans for old houses can be implemented in such a way that a new, high-powered gas range can sit side by side with the ancient wood-burning stove.

As you think of kitchen ideas, you must consider the cost first. Any substantial renovation costs many thousands of dollars. Of course, there are ways to save money in some areas without sacrificing the quality of the result. Budget your funds for design, contractors and appliances, as these are the most important components of an excellent kitchen.

If you can, keep your renovation ideas within the current layout rather than commission structural changes, which quickly escalate the cost of a project. If you must make structural changes, hire a contractor who is willing to work on a small budget. Review your layout to see if such changes as the addition or removal of a divider, a skylight or a window could be added to your kitchen. Additions like these are easy and not so expensive.

Good kitchen renovations take into account a kitchen's utilities. Make sure the plumbing, heating and electrical components are up to date. Even if a kitchen is pleasing to the eye, it might be hiding fire-hazards or energy-wasters behind the walls. In old homes, there is a good chance that the utilities need your immediate attention. In these cases, a home inspection can be very informative.

Countertops, cabinetry and floors can give your kitchen the right look. But if you are concerned about cost, you can save a lot of money by making smart purchases. Many materials available today are as durable and beautiful as marble and granite, and could serve you well. Buy stock cabinetry instead of custom manufactured. Laminates and various kinds of tile can be very inexpensive, but very nice to look at.