The smallest factors can make or break a kitchen redesign. Discover what factors to consider when choosing countertop edge profiles here.
Do you ever look at your kitchen and dream of transforming it into a brand new space? From the basic layout and color scheme to your cabinet style and countertop material, you can create the kitchen of your dreams. One of the smaller details that goes into your perfect kitchen is the edge profile on your counters.
There are lots of different countertop edge profiles for you to choose from, and each will impact your kitchen in a different way. Read on to discover some of the factors you’ll need to consider when deciding which profile is right for you.
1. Spills
One of the first things you may want to think about when choosing an edge profile for your countertops is cleaning up spills. If you have little hands around, you may find yourself wiping up spills six or eight times a day. You might want to opt for an edge detail that slows down spills before they hit the floor.
If your goal is to slow down spills, you’re going to want to opt for an edge profile that has a lot of layers. This can include a dupont bullnose, an ogee or double ogee edge. The various ridges and layers will catch liquid and slow it down, giving you enough time to get to it with a rag before it hits the floor.
2. Cleaning Time
Of course, while you want a countertop that will keep liquid off your floors, you also want to take into consideration how much time it will take you to clean your counters. You may prefer an edge profile that’s easy to hit with one wipe and get spotless. The profiles we’ve described so far will take a little more scrubbing to get everything out of the nooks and crannies.
If speedy cleaning is your top priority, you’re going to want to go with a more straightforward edge profile. Any sort of eased edge, half-bullnose, full bullnose, or beveled edge will be simple enough to get clean with a single wipe. These profiles don’t have any ridges or levels and so will allow any particles to easily roll off the edge.
3. Safety
Another factor to keep in mind if you have kids is the safety of your new kitchen counters. If you like a clean, modern look, a square or eased edge may appeal to you with its clean, simple lines. But if your kids slip when they go racing through the kitchen and smack their heads on that corner, you could be facing a visit to the emergency room.
If you want a counter edge profile that will be a little safer, you may want to opt for one of the rounded profiles. Bullnose edges are arguably the safest profile, thanks to their soft, rounded corners. A half-bullnose can also be a great choice, and a beveled edge can be a nice compromise between that modern aesthetic and safety for your little ones.
4. Design Aesthetic
Of course, aside from the practical considerations, your biggest factor in choosing your counter edge profile will be your design aesthetic. Different granite countertop edge profiles create different feels in a kitchen, even aside from the overall look and feel of your cabinets and décor. You want to make sure you choose a profile that will fit well with the vibe you’re creating in your new kitchen.
In general, the cleaner profiles will work best in more modern or minimalistic kitchens. This includes eased edges, bullnose edges, and beveled edges. Beveled edges can also play double-duty and work in more traditional or ornate kitchens, as do any form of ogee or stepped edge profile.
5. Color Palette
You might be surprised to learn that the color palette of your kitchen could actually have an impact on which edge profile you choose. If you’re designing an all-white kitchen or a kitchen that mainly uses one light color, you’ll need to add a little visual interest to your design. A more ornate profile edge countertop can be a fantastic subtle way to bring that touch of elegance and interest.
If you’re installing white counters with white cabinets on white walls with a white backsplash, you may want to opt for a dupont bullnose, an ogee, or another ornate edge profile. On the other hand, if you have blue or green cabinets, a countertop with a busy pattern, or other elaborate finishes, you may want to go for a more subtle edge profile. An eased, or beveled edge could keep things on the right side of the simple in these kitchens.
6. Cabinet Design
In addition to your color palette, you’ll want to take a look at your cabinet design when you’re choosing your counter edge profile. As a general rule of thumb, it’s a good idea to loosely match your counter edge profile to the detailing on your cabinets. You can also opt to play opposites off each other in designs using very simple or very ornate styling.
If your cabinets have a somewhat more ornate design, you may want to choose an ogee or Spanish edge to complement them. If you have simple cabinets with very little detailing, go for a bullnose or half-bullnose. On the other hand, if you have simple shaker cabinets or cabinets with no detailing at all, a beveled edge can provide some nice interest.
Learn More About Countertop Edge Profiles
There are several different countertop edge profiles you can choose from and a lot of factors that go into picking the right one for you. If you have kids, you may want to go with a profile that prioritizes safety, ease of cleaning, or spill management. You should also consider your overall design aesthetic, the color palette you’re using, and the design of your cabinets.
If you’d like to learn more about countertop edge profiles, check out the rest of our site at Montes Marble and Granite. We craft countertops in quartz, granite, marble, natural stone, and more for kitchens, bathrooms, and mantels. Shop our countertops today and discover the perfect material for your remodel project today.
