Learn About Countertop Edge Options From Ogee to Mitered Edge Profiles
In Countertop Design, The Mitered Edge Profile Is Trending, View These Additional Options
If you thought the work was done when you finished picking the countertop material for your kitchen renovation, you were mistaken. There's one more decision you'll have to make that's subtle, but it can help to set the aesthetic tone of the room... what edge would you like to go with your new countertop?
Believe it or not, there are plenty of choices to choose from, and as with any design element, it's often the details that set your design apart from others. Choosing your countertop edges is not a detail you want to overlook. Your edge can be the crowning touch and complete the style of your dream kitchen!
In this post, we'll take a look at the most popular countertop edge options available, as well as how they can complement and define the style of your kitchen and fit into your budget.
Classic or Modern Countertop Edges
For the most part, most homeowners do not think about the type of countertop edge they want until the manufacturer or fabricator asks them the question! That's ok since it's a detail that is often unique to each manufacturer. However, at the end of the day, you'll need to discuss it with your designer and manufacturer to see precisely what countertop edges they offer and which is best for your design.
Here are some descriptions of countertop edge types to consider, including their more common and accepted names.
1. The Mitered Edge
The beauty of a mitered edge is that it can give the illusion that the countertop is made from a thicker slab. Although this edge can make the countertop the visual focal point in the kitchen, much as classic ornate edges do, the mitered edge's sleek lines allow it to be used in a contemporary design as well!
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2. The Mitered Drop Apron Edge
The mitered edge is one of the most popular countertop edges and is strongly trending today. A mitered drop apron edge is actually assembled from two pieces of material, and the edge size can be customized. If you're using a veined material like marble, the veins can be matched to turn and go right down the drop apron to give you a consistent look. A mitered edge creates a seamless edge between the top of the countertop and the second piece of stone to create a specialty edge or join a waterfall panel. The slab material must be cut at precisely a 45-degree angle and perfectly mounted for the pattern of the stone to remain consistent. When done correctly, a mitered drop apron edge is a stunning look!
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3. The Ogee Edge
Ogee edges use two soft curves to create a rounded “S” shape. The hardness of the curve is available in a varied range from subtle curves, to a more dramatic profile. Ogee countertop edges add depth to both the countertop and cabinetry they are applied to. It's almost exclusively used with high-end materials like granite, marble, and quartz giving it an implied luxury. The Ogee Edge shines in a larger space where their added depth doesn't overwhelm the room and truly allows the beauty of the stone to shine!
4. Cove Edge
Coved edges are related to the ogee and are basically a sharper version with a rounded indent that created a grooved effect. The cove edge looks less formal and more modern than the ogee but takes a similar amount of space. They are a little harder to clean as the groove can catch spills. If your space has room for a slightly larger edge profile, or you want to add a little glamour, the cove edge is a great choice.
5. Half Bullnose (also called the “Demi” Bullnose)
The half bullnose provides a soft, gentle slope on the top with a flat bottom. Like round countertop edges, the half bullnose silhouette is flattering to almost any design style and is extremely easy to clean, making them a cook's best friend! If you want a simple, easy-to-maintain look, or you need an edge that will complement your design, the half bullnose is a great option!
6. Bullnose Edge
The bullnose edge takes out all of the angles. It rounds out the edge to create a soft, semi-circular edge profile. It is a very versatile option that blends into any design style. One drawback of this edge design is that spills on the countertop may trickle down along the curved edge into the cabinetry below. As long as you promptly wipe up liquids before they reach the edge, you'll be fine.
7. Beveled Countertop Edges
A beveled countertop has a 45-degree slice from the top giving them an interesting line while still maintaining a rounded effect. Beveled edges look great in almost any space and are one of the most popular choices among homeowners and designers. They provide a low profile, are easy to clean, and have a more modern look than a more rounded edge design. The beveled edge will compliment almost any kitchen and any color stone.
8. Square Edges
The square edge is the most common choice among the edge profiles because it is the simplest and most affordable option. Fabricators will add softening cuts or “kerfs” to keep the edges from chipping and being too sharp. If you're seeking a minimalist look, choose the square edge. It's a great option when paired with a particularly bold or striking slab. It allows the natural beauty of the stone to shine through without any distractions.
9. Stepped Edges
Stepped edges are just what the name implies – a series of cuts made to resemble steps in the stone. These steps can have a sharper edge or be rounded down to offer a look similar to an ogee edge. While a stepped edge is harder to clean and maintain, the payoff is a modern look that adds depth to your kitchen. Stepped countertop edges are a bold design choice that needs to be carefully paired with elements that can handle their imposing profile!
10. The Chiseled Edge (also called the “Broken Edge”)
This edge profile features rough, uneven faces that create a raw, natural look and feel. This is by far one of the boldest edge choices. While it doesn't have as large a profile as some, much like a ”live edge” wooden table, it draws the eye by featuring the natural beauty of the stone. When paired with a stone that has flecks, shimmers, or pops of color, you'll make the raw stone the star of your design! It also works well with rustic or antique feeling décor or spaces that need a design pop.
These are just a few of the most common and most popular countertop edge options. To view all of our products and see an even larger list of countertop edge options we provide, click here. Some manufacturers have their own unique take on these and other edge options. If you throw in laminated edges, which are essentially stone extensions cemented to the bottom edge of countertops, you get an almost exponential increase in the number of options available.
The best way to discover what countertop edge options look like is to reach out to your countertop fabricator. Speak with an expert at the beginning of the design stage to see what edge options they offer. This will help you to better envision what your finished dream kitchen will look like on the countertop material you’ve chosen!
If you live anywhere in New England and would like to learn more about the countertop options we offer, give the experts at Stonelink Marble & Granite a call at (508) 393-0720. Let us show you the many exciting countertop edge options available for enhancing your kitchen design!