It’s a common misconception that the edge of countertops aren’t noticeable — to the point that many don’t even think about this important fixture when remodeling a room in the home. In fact, choosing the best countertop edge profile can be very useful in setting the cherry on top of the room’s style.
Regardless of the kind of style you’re seeking, the little details are what give a kitchen its stand-out personality. Every decision you make paints strokes towards the bigger picture. Therefore it requires careful scrutiny, especially with edges on the kitchen countertops. For example, putting fancy edges in a tiny kitchen can make it seem like there is even less space than there actually is. This is because the guest’s attention is drawn to these edges instead of the overall picture.
Straight Edge
As one of the more simplistic styles, straight edges work for nearly any kind of countertop. Fancy edges are meant to draw attention from the eyes, whereas straight edges quietly complement their profiles. If your kitchen relies on a clean, modern kitchen style, a straight edge could be the right type for you.
Despite what the name implies, straight edges are neither sharp nor dangerous. In fact, they’re somewhat softened and sometimes even rounded to provide a clean edge without running the risk of injury when bumping into them.
Some examples of straight counter edges include:
Standard thickness square
Sometimes less can be more. If your kitchen has a clean design without much flair to bedazzle the room, then you may not need anything more than a standard 3cm straight counter edge. This style will help complement the minimal decor and panache, avoiding the situation where one small detail strangely overwhelms everything else.
Mitered and square
If 3 centimeters isn’t quite enough to get the job done, you can opt for a mitered edge in its stead. While you’ll still get about the same thickness, the far edges will contain a bisecting joint that appears to thicken the profile of the counters. If you’re interested in making a countertop stand out without being too overwhelming, a square, mitered edge can make all the difference.
Waterfall edge
Stone counters look beautiful with a waterfall edge, the design of which runs down a kitchen island with style.
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Curved Counter Edges
Depending on your needs, curved edges can be as simplistic as their straight edge counterparts or fancier with more flair. The purpose of the rounded curves is to soften the room and complement classic and contemporary designs alike. Look at the small design details already present in your kitchen when looking for inspiration in choosing the best countertop edge design.
If even softened straight edges raise concern about young children bumping heads, curves can be an excellent alternative option for safety. These curves won’t bite back with each bump, and they can be laminated for an even softer touch on the slab.
Some examples of curved counter edges include:
Bullnose
The most basic rounded edge is known as the bullnose, featuring little design beyond a curved edge, making it a timeless choice in most of all kinds of kitchens.
Ogee
Another choice straight from the timeless book of edge design. The ogee resembles the bullnose but takes an additional contemporary approach by adding a square edge along the perimeter. Even with this addition, the ogee makes a fine choice for a traditional kitchen with an island.
Fancy Counter Edges
Sometimes you just want to make a statement, and your kitchen counters can be the perfect place to do so. With fancy edges, the counter is sure to draw the attention you’re aiming to achieve by combining multiple styles into a one-of-a-kind design. As a result, that will sure start the conversation with your next houseguest.
Typically, homeowners only use fancy edges on the kitchen islands rather than on every counter in the kitchen. If they’re overused, the edges can easily become overwhelming and seem misplaced, no matter how well the design looked when used sparingly. When picking a fancy edge, your goal should be to pick something that complements your design. But won’t draw too much attention away from the rest of the room.
Some examples of fancy edges include:
Marine edge
This is a specialized type of edge often used with stainless steel counters. It combines the effectiveness of a straight edge with some of the function of a rounded edge, raising the outer edge instead of using a mitered kitchen design. This raised design prevents juices and other liquids from running down the counters and onto the floor.
Custom edges
Consult a fabricator to discuss the possibility of customized edges. The tools necessary for fancy edge fabrication often can serve as tools to create edges based on a custom design, though this will naturally come at a premium cost.
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