A flat, polished edge or eased edge is a common choice for kitchen countertops. It is clean, simple, and modern-looking and the profile fits well with shaker-style cabinets.
Currently, curved edges are leading the trend in countertop designs. These edges are soft, neat, and rounded, providing a modern yet inviting look.
The best handles for shaker style kitchen cabinets can depend on personal preference and the desired aesthetic, but popular choices include oil rubbed bronze cup pulls, tubular bar pulls, and matte black hardware. These options complement the classic look of shaker cabinets while adding a touch of modern elegance.
Absolutely not! In fact, many homeowners are embracing this stunning design element more than ever. The ogee countertop edge complements various materials—be it granite, quartz, or marble—enhancing their natural beauty while adding character.
Waterfall Edge
Eye-catching doesn't even begin to describe this 2024 countertop trend we've fallen in love with! Waterfall edges for kitchen countertops are the perfect way to elevate your kitchen!
Eased Edges
They have slightly rounded corners for safety and comfort, while still having flat, unobtrusive sides. Eased edges are a popular and inexpensive choice for modern or traditional kitchens. They work with any counter material, and their rounded edges help prevent chipping.
Many consider the best material for an ogee edge is a hard, durable material such as granite, marble, or quartz. These materials are resistant to scratches, stains, and heat, so they can withstand the rigors of everyday use. Here are some additional benefits of ogee edges: They can help to prevent injuries.
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 simply ending with a finished edge, the countertop turns toward the floor and continues down the side of the cabinet, island, or seating area.
Combine Shaker Cabinets With Other Styles
For example, you could pair shaker cabinets with glass doors to create a modern look. Or you could combine shaker cabinets with raised panel doors to create a traditional look. Slab drawer fronts paired with shaker cabinet doors is another popular option.
The 1/3 rule in cabinet hardware is a design guideline that helps achieve balanced proportions when selecting drawer pulls and cabinet handles. According to this rule, the length of the pull should be approximately one-third the width of the drawer or cabinet door.
Centered on the Inset Panel: This is where you place the knob or pull handle on the center of the recessed drawer panel (the inset). This is the most common hardware placement on Shaker cabinets. Center of the Top Rail: You can place the knob or pull handle on the center of the top rail portion.
A typical countertop overhang will be 1.5 inches. Keep in mind, however, that this isn't always the case. In certain instances, a larger or smaller overhang may be desired. This is more common with custom countertops.
For kitchens, quartz countertops in bold colors like deep navy, charcoal, or even black are gaining popularity in 2025, adding a touch of sophistication and modern flair while maintaining the durability and ease of maintenance that quartz is known for.
Bullnose Edge: Timeless Charm with a Gentle Touch
This style features a softly rounded edge that enhances the visual appeal of your countertops and also provides a comfortable grip.
Some feel that bullnose tile trim is outdated looking. In some ways, they are right. As tiles have grown in size and metal edge trims have grown in popularity, the bullnose look just didn't look clean and minimal enough. However, the classic looks, like subway tiles, bullnose trim tiles are a perfect edging.
Countertop Edge Profile Trends
If you're going for a modern look, eased feels classic to me. If your aesthetic skews more traditional, you can't go wrong with a timeless ogee profile. The more complex an edge profile becomes, the more likely it is to go out of style. That's my personal opinion!
Avoid countertops that are largely plastic such as cultured marble, solid surface, and those that introduce formaldehyde, like laminate. If using laminate countertops, specify that the substrate be made with a no added formaldehyde (NAF) resin. Additionally, CDPH-certified laminate materials are preferred.
The No Drip Edge profile is perfectly suited to areas that are prone to spills, including kitchens and baths. This profile sports a slightly raised edge which helps stop liquids from finding their way to the floor.
Cambria is a natural stone surface that is elegant and practical. It is maintenance-free and never requires sealing, polishing or reconditioning. Simply wash with warm water; it's that easy. Stronger than granite, quartz is one of the hardest and most abundant minerals found in nature.
The straight edge profile is a modern and clean choice that complements any kitchen design. With its slightly rounded corners, it provides a gentle transition from the surface down the edge of the countertop. This style is a great choice for safety-conscious homeowners since there are no sharp corners.
Eased Edge: The squared edge with “eased” corners is an excellent edge for the simple lines of a contemporary design. This edge also gives counters a thicker look.