Edge profiles, waterfall islands and overhangs explained

The edge is where you touch the countertop most. A square or eased edge is crisp and contemporary; a rounded (bullnose) edge is softer and forgiving; decorative profiles add a traditional feel. Thicker-looking edges can be built up by laminating extra stone.

Choose the edge you can see and feel in a real sample, because it changes the character of the whole kitchen.

On a waterfall island the countertop continues down one or both sides to the floor, like a sheet of stone. It shows off the pattern of a slab from two directions and works especially well with veined quartz. It also uses more material and needs precise fabrication so the pattern flows around the corner, so it costs more than a standard edge. See what affects the cost of a countertop.

• Standard overhang above cabinet doors: about 1 to 1.5 inches.
• Seating at a counter-height island: commonly at least 12 inches of knee space, with many designers going to 15 inches for comfort.
• Bar-height counters typically need around 12 inches; table-height seating needs more.

Edge profile, waterfall sides and overhang are decided at templating, so settle them beforehand. Our templating checklist shows what to have ready, and our quartz page shows the colours and patterns that suit waterfall designs.