The edge profile on your countertop is one of those details that most homeowners do not think about until a fabricator asks them to choose one. But it changes the entire look of the counter — and some profiles cost more than others.
Here is a straightforward guide to the most common edge profiles we fabricate in our Buffalo, NY shop, with photos descriptions and honest advice on which ones are worth the upgrade.
Standard Edges (Usually Included in Price)
Eased Edge
A flat top with slightly rounded corners. Clean, simple, modern. This is the default edge on most countertop installations and it is included in the base price with most fabricators.
Best for: Modern kitchens, minimalist design, anyone who wants clean lines without paying extra.
Beveled Edge
A flat top with an angled cut along the edge, creating a subtle chamfer. Slightly more visual interest than eased, still very clean.
Best for: Transitional kitchens that are not quite modern, not quite traditional.
Mid-Range Edges (Small Upcharge)
Half Bullnose
The top edge is rounded, the bottom stays flat. This is one of the most popular edge profiles because it softens the counter’s appearance without going full rounded. It is comfortable to lean against and easy to clean.
Best for: Family kitchens, islands where people sit and lean, traditional to transitional style.
Full Bullnose
Both the top and bottom edges are fully rounded, creating a smooth, continuous curve. Softer look than half bullnose. Very comfortable but can look dated in very modern kitchens.
Best for: Traditional kitchens, homes with young children (no sharp edges).
Ogee
An S-shaped curve that creates an elegant, traditional profile. This is the “fancy” edge that most people picture when they think of high-end granite countertops. It adds visual weight and formality to the counter.
Best for: Traditional and formal kitchens, dining rooms, bathrooms where you want a luxury feel.
Premium Edges (Larger Upcharge)
Waterfall Edge
The countertop material continues down the side of the cabinet to the floor, creating a continuous “waterfall” of stone. This is a design statement — it looks dramatic and modern, especially on kitchen islands.
Cost consideration: Waterfall edges require significantly more material because the stone extends vertically. Expect the cost of the island portion to increase substantially.
Best for: Modern kitchens, kitchen islands as a focal point, high-end renovations.
Mitered Edge
Two pieces of stone are joined at a 45-degree angle to create the appearance of a thicker slab — usually making a standard 3cm slab look like 6cm. It gives the counter a substantial, heavy appearance without the weight or cost of a solid thick slab.
Best for: Modern kitchens where you want visual weight, island perimeters.
Which Edge Should You Choose?
Here is the honest advice:
- If you are on a budget: Go with eased or beveled. They look clean, they are included in the price, and nobody walks into a kitchen and thinks “I wish this edge was fancier.”
- If you want a small upgrade: Half bullnose is the safest choice. It looks good in almost every kitchen style, it is comfortable, and the upcharge is usually modest ($5-15 per linear foot).
- If you are going high-end: Ogee for traditional, waterfall for modern. Both make a statement. Both cost more. Make sure the rest of your kitchen supports the look — a waterfall edge island with laminate cabinets looks odd.
- If you are selling the house: Eased or half bullnose. Neutral, appealing to the widest range of buyers, and keeps your renovation budget in check.
See Them in Person
Edge profiles are hard to judge from photos alone. The way light catches a bullnose versus an eased edge changes the whole feel of the counter. We encourage homeowners to visit our shop and see the edge profiles on actual stone — it makes the decision much easier.
Contact Empire Custom Countertops to schedule a visit or request a free consultation. We will show you edge options on your chosen material so you can see exactly how it will look in your kitchen.
We serve homeowners throughout Buffalo, Amherst, Cheektowaga, Orchard Park, West Seneca, Tonawanda, Williamsville, East Aurora, and Hamburg.
Empire Custom Countertops fabricates and installs custom granite, quartz, and marble countertops in Buffalo, NY. Get a free estimate.
