Designers Say This Is the One Kitchen Detail That Instantly Gives a Remodel a Chic, Custom Feel

Even if you can't afford a fully custom kitchen design, there are smaller characteristics you can add that create the look. And designers say countertop edging is the tiny detail that can make a huge difference.

It's a simple addition, elevating the profile of your kitchen countertops from flat to slightly more decorative. Though small in size, it instantly makes your design feel more considered and custom.

Here's everything you need to know about countertop edging, why designers recommend it, and how to get it right. Once you try it, you'll wonder why you never featured these decorative edge profiles before.

Of all the custom kitchen features designers think you should consider, countertop edging tops the list. It takes a functional feature and brings an ornate detail that feels elegant and design-forward.

'When choosing a kitchen countertop, the edge profile makes just as much impact as the material itself. While the surface provides the canvas, the edging is the finishing architectural detail that defines the overall silhouette of the space,' says Katie Parry Stone of Cosentino.

'Edge profiles are the go-to choice for creating a more bespoke look, allowing homeowners to move away from standard finishes towards something that feels intentionally tailored to their specific interior style,' she explains.

But it's a detail that does more than just create a custom feel. It helps to enforce your desired kitchen aesthetic, infusing a sense of tradition or sleek design, depending on the overall style you are going for.

'The edge profile of a countertop plays a big role in reinforcing the overall style of the kitchen. It may seem like a small detail, but it can either complement the design or feel completely out of place,' explains Heidi Houdek of Heidi Houdek Interiors.

'For example, in a very traditional kitchen, you might choose a more decorative profile like a Dupont or ogee edge. In a modern or more minimal kitchen, something simple like an eased edge tends to feel more appropriate. When the edge profile aligns with the overall design language of the space, everything feels more intentional and cohesive.'

While you can add decorative profiles to most countertop materials, there are certain approaches that work best. 'Profiled edges work best with natural stones, particularly marbles with distinctive or contrasting veining,' says Tom Wicksteed of 202 Design.

'The edge becomes a way to highlight the material’s natural beauty rather than mask it. On islands or key work surfaces, a sculptural profile draws the eye and reinforces the kitchen’s sense of craftsmanship, making the space feel truly bespoke.'

Kitchen Countertop Edge Profiles to Consider

'You’ll often hear designers say that design is in the details, and I couldn’t agree more. Specifying a unique edge profile for kitchen countertops is a subtle but powerful way to add personality,' says Erin Hackett Nordholt of Hackett House Studio.

From the more rustic appearance of chiseled edges to the decorative design of an ogee profile, these are the countertop edges designers say are worth considering.

Bullnose Edge

A bullnose edge is a favored choice, used to create a rounded edge profile. It's classic and instantly softens the edge of your surfaces. 'Bullnose is simple and understated, it softens a worktop while maintaining elegance,' says Tom.

Double Bullnose Edge

For something a bit bolder, a double bullnose has the appearance of two bullnose edges stacked on top of each other, like in this kitchen. 'Double bullnose is perfect for islands or peninsulas, creating a smooth, sculptural flow while allowing light to catch the stone naturally,' Tom explains.

Fluted Edge

Fluted finishes have dominated kitchen trends in many forms. Glass-fronted kitchen cabinets with a fluted finish an elegant, vintage-inspired feel to your designs, while the latest trends are embracing fully fluted cabinets.

But it's a design that looks beautiful on your countertop edges, too. It's playful yet stylish, timeless, and can weave well in plenty of kitchen styles. It's also favored as it can be added to a flat countertop edge and doesn't overwhelm a scheme.

Ogee Edge

One of the most traditional and popular edge details, the ogee is a tried and tested approach that works particularly well on natural stone countertops. Often described as an 'S' shape, it gives the look of a double-layered edge where the top of the countertop drops slightly before smoothly transitioning to a second ledge.

'Ogee is more detailed, adding an ornate and tailored feel. It can be combined with a step detail or even doubled for added presence,' says Tom. This is a truly sophisticated edge detail to choose if you want to give natural stone countertops a more finished look.

Chiseled Edge

For a more natural, organic look, chiseled countertop edges are a less expected option that offers a lot of impact. This edge detail is exactly as it sounds – it's chiseled and left as a raw edge to allow the natural details of the stone to really shine. It adds a more natural, almost vintage feel to the countertops, too.

If you're looking for a way to make your kitchen countertops look custom, edging is the chicest answer. The edge profile is the finishing architectural detail that defines the overall silhouette and visual weight of the kitchen,' defines Katie Parry Stone of Cosentino.

'It is a subtle yet powerful choice that alters how the worktop interacts with the cabinetry below, allowing a functional surface to feel like a bespoke, intentionally designed piece of furniture.'

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