Choosing the Best Countertop Edge for Your Kitchen

When remodeling your kitchen, the countertop edge profile is more than just a detail. It frames your design and affects both safety and aesthetic. Choosing the right edge can be intimidating, especially if it’s your first time renovating or refreshing your home. By taking the time to understand the ins and outs of each style, you can make an informed decision that fits the needs of your kitchen.

Square (Straight) Edge vs. Eased Edge

• Square Edge: Offers a clean, modern, minimalist look. Ideal for contemporary or industrial kitchens. However, its sharpness makes it more prone to chipping.
• Eased Edge: A softened square edge that retains a sleek profile yet provides comfort and child‑friendly safety. It’s highly durable, easy to clean, and one of the most popular options.

When to choose which? If you’re after a sharp modern aesthetic and budget is a factor, Square may work, just expect more maintenance. For everyday usability and safety, Eased is a smarter, more forgiving choice.

Beveled Edge vs. Bullnose & Demi‑Bullnose

• Beveled Edge: Features a 45° angled cut adding subtle, reflective detail. Suitable for traditional to contemporary kitchens and relatively easy to clean.
• Bullnose Edge: Fully rounded from top to bottom, this edge exudes timeless softness and safety. It’s great for family homes.
• Demi‑Bullnose: Offers a sizable top curve above a flat bottom. Maintains a sleek and elegant compromise between squared and fully rounded.

Best use cases: Beveled edges add subtle sophistication. Bullnose edges are a go-to for safety-conscious households. Demi‑bullnose marries elegance with modern minimalism.

Ogee Edge: Ornate Tradition

The Ogee Edge stands out with its elegant S‑curve, bringing classic detail and richness. It works best in high‑end, traditional kitchens where intricate design is embraced. However, it may be more costly and trickier to clean.

Waterfall End & Mitered Edge: Architectural Drama

• Waterfall End: Extends the countertop material down the sides, creating modern architectural flair and visual continuity. Perfect for island designs in open-concept plans. It’s a premium option in cost and material.
• Mitered Edge: Uses joined 45° angles to give the illusion of thickness. Refined, bold, and ideal for modern kitchens. Great for waterfall applications too.

Choosing these? Opt for these profiles if you’re aiming for statement-making design and are comfortable with higher investment for a stunning, seamless look.

Decision Table: Match Edge to Your Needs

Choosing the Right Option

• Match style to lifestyle: A sleek beveled or mitered edge complements a modern aesthetic, while bullnose or ogee edges lean into tradition and safety.
• Consider material limitations: Softer stones and quartz respond better to rounded profiles, while engineered surfaces lend themselves to clean, sharp forms.
• Factor in cleaning & upkeep: Simpler shapes (square, eased, bevel) offer easy maintenance. Ornate edges require extra attention.
• Consult your designer: Edge functionality depends on what material and thickness you’re using. Always confirm before finalizing.

Countertop Edges in Annapolis, MD

At Cabinet Discounters, we are here to help you make your kitchen the best it can be. If you’re considering replacing your countertops, it’s a good idea to know what kind of edging you want ahead of time. The right countertop edge can make a drastic difference in both the look and function of your home. Contact us today to schedule a tour of our showrooms and see the difference for yourself.