Popular Edge Styles For Quartz Countertops

When choosing an edge style for your countertops, it’s important to select a surfacing material that strikes a balance between functionality and aesthetics. Quartz is a durable, elegant natural surfacing material that can have a variety of edge styles. Whether you prefer a pencil edge or a more dramatic waterfall edge, your design options are not limited when you choose quartz countertops.

What Is A Waterfall Edge?

A waterfall edge is a design that makes a 90-degree angle at the end of the countertop. Rather than ending with a finished edge, the countertop turns toward the floor and continues down the side of the cabinet, island, or seating area.

The edge gets its name from the appearance of the countertop “pouring” off the edge of the island, much like water over a cliff. While other countertop materials are capable of making this unique edge design, quartz can support larger overhangs because of its durability (i.e., it will not crack or break over time from the weight of itself). 

This is a luxurious example of a waterfall edge. Light-Colored quartz with subtle veining mimics the look of marble and is paired with hardwood floors and black lower cabinets and white upper cabinets to give this kitchen a minimalist aesthetic.

What Is A Mitered Edge?

A mitered edge is similar to a waterfall edge, but it does not have to extend all the way to the floor. (Waterfall edges use mitered edges, but not all mitered edges are waterfall edges.) Two pieces of quartz are cut on the edge at a 45-degree angle and joined together. Because of the way the quartz is cut and joined, there does not appear to be a seam, and it makes the countertops look thicker than the standard thicknesses of quartz slabs.

A mitered edge can make your countertops the center of attention. By giving them the illusion of being several inches thicker than they actually are, the beautiful colors and veining in your quartz countertops are brought front and center.

Mitered edges have become more popular, along with waterfall edges, as designers discover new unique ways to incorporate natural stone elements into their projects. Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen, designing a restaurant, or looking to replace your bathroom vanity, mitered and waterfall edges offer a unique design that will add value and beauty to your space. 

This floating quartz vanity with thick, mitered edges makes a bold statement in this luxurious bathroom. The black speckled quartz contrasts sharply with the lighter color choices on the floor and lower cabinet and pairs well with the metallic wallpaper.

What Are Some Other Popular Edge Profiles?

There are a variety of edge profiles available for quartz countertops. While the profiles vary from fabricator to fabricator, most have several options to ensure there is a profile available for every space. 

Nine standard edge profiles

Choose a simple edge profile, like the bullnose, for a classic look, or choose a more elaborate design, like double ogee, for a more luxurious aesthetic. Every space has its own personality, and choosing an edge profile helps complete a space, whether it be a kitchen, bathroom, or commercial space. Eased edges tend to be most popular and work with a wide variety of design styles, from contemporary to transitional to traditional.

What Are Some Benefits Of Choosing Quartz?

Quartz countertops are extremely durable, making them a good choice if you would like to have a statement edge profile like a waterfall edge. Natural stone like granite may crack or break over time under its own weight. However, quartz is one of the most durable materials on the market and will not crack or break over time, making it an excellent option for waterfall edges.

Additionally, quartz edge profiles will not peel over time, which cannot be said about lower quality materials like laminate. 

About HanStone Quartz

We strive to create products that enhance life’s journey. Countertops are the surface for so many important things in life. From preparing meals that bring family and friends together to being after school homework stations for the kids, countertops serve a variety of purposes. 

HanStone Quartz designs support your endeavors without attracting attention. Countertops should support your space, not be the object of your worry. With quartz, you no longer have to worry about maintenance, scratches, chips, or stains. It is a product that always works for you.

View our full color portfolio to see which of our beautiful designs will become the backdrop for your next big adventure.