Choosing a new countertop is exciting, but it can also be a lot to think about. You’ve likely already focused on the big three: material, color, and layout. But there’s a smaller detail that can make a big difference in the final look and feel of your kitchen or bathroom: countertop edge profiles.
This subtle design choice is both functional and aesthetic, defining the style of your space and impacting everything from safety to cost. This guide will walk you through the most popular edge profiles, compare common choices like eased vs. ogee, and help you understand how to choose the right one for your project.
What Is a Countertop Edge Profile?
A countertop edge profile refers to the shape and finish of the outer edge of your stone surface. It’s the detail that wraps around the perimeter—where you interact with the countertop every day.
Edge profiles affect:
- Aesthetics – They help define your kitchen or bathroom style.
- Functionality – Rounded edges are safer in high-traffic areas or homes with young kids.
- Cost – Some profiles require more time and labor, increasing your price per square foot.
Popular Countertop Edge Styles
Let’s explore the most common countertop edge options, including where they work best and what they signal in terms of style.
1. Eased Edge
- Look: Clean, straight edge with slightly softened corners.
- Style: Modern, minimalist.
- Cost: Standard (often included in base pricing).
- Best For: Contemporary kitchens, vanities, budget-friendly projects.
2. Pencil Edge
- Look: Similar to eased but with a more rounded top corner.
- Style: Transitional; works in nearly any setting.
- Cost: Standard.
- Best For: Clients who want clean lines with a softer feel.
3. Beveled Edge
- Look: Angled cut, typically at 45 degrees.
- Style: Traditional or modern, depending on the size of the bevel.
- Cost: Standard to mid-range.
- Best For: Kitchens looking for geometric detail without going ornate.
4. Half Bullnose
- Look: Rounded on the top edge, flat on the bottom.
- Style: Classic and timeless.
- Cost: Slight upcharge depending on material.
- Best For: Residential kitchens with kids; soft to the touch and easy to clean.
5. Full Bullnose
- Look: Completely rounded top and bottom.
- Style: Smooth, flowing.
- Cost: Mid-range due to the extra shaping.
- Best For: Bathroom counters, traditional kitchens.
6. Ogee Edge
- Look: Decorative S-curve detail.
- Style: High-end, elegant, traditional.
- Cost: Premium.
- Best For: Custom kitchens, designer baths, or upscale remodels.
7. Dupont / Cove Dupont
- Look: Intricate detail with a cove or step followed by a curve.
- Style: Ornate, luxurious.
- Cost: Premium to custom-tier.
- Best For: Statement islands, luxury projects, furniture-style vanities.
Custom Edge Profiles: What to Know
Custom edges are typically handcrafted using CNC routers or done manually by experienced fabricators. These may combine multiple profiles (like a double ogee) or feature extra-thick laminated edges for a dramatic effect.
- Common Applications: Designer kitchens, commercial installations, and multi-million dollar homes.
- Typical Cost: $25–$60 per linear foot or more, depending on the complexity.
- Lead Time: Custom profiles may require additional fabrication time.
Eased Edge vs. Ogee: What’s Right for You?
One of the most common comparisons clients ask about is eased edge vs ogee.
| Feature | Eased Edge | Ogee Edge |
|---|---|---|
| Style | Simple, modern | Traditional, elegant |
| Cost | Usually included | Premium upcharge |
| Maintenance | Very easy | May trap more crumbs/dust |
| Fabrication Time | Fast | Slower due to detailed carving |
| Best Fit | Modern, transitional kitchens | Custom remodels, designer projects |
Choosing a new countertop is exciting, but it can also be a lot to think about. You’ve likely already focused on the big three: material, color, and layout. But there’s a smaller detail that can make a big difference in the final look and feel of your kitchen or bathroom: the countertop edge profile.
This subtle design choice is both functional and aesthetic, defining the style of your space and impacting everything from safety to cost. This guide will walk you through the most popular edge profiles, compare common choices like eased vs. ogee, and help you understand how to choose the right one for your project.
What Is a Countertop Edge Profile?
A countertop edge profile is the shape and finish of the outer edge of your stone. It’s the part you interact with daily—the detail that frames your entire countertop.
Edge profiles are important because they affect:
- Aesthetics: The edge profile helps define your kitchen’s style, whether it’s sleek and modern or classic and ornate.
- Functionality: Rounded edges are safer in high-traffic areas or in homes with children, while certain profiles are easier to clean.
- Cost: More complex profiles require extra time and labor, which can increase the price of your project.
Popular Countertop Edge Styles
Let’s explore some of the most common options and what they communicate in terms of style.
- Eased Edge: A clean, straight edge with corners that are just slightly softened. This is a very popular choice for modern and minimalist kitchens. It’s often a standard, budget-friendly option.
- Pencil Edge: Similar to an eased edge but with a more rounded top corner, like the tip of a pencil. It offers clean lines with a softer feel and works well in transitional spaces.
- Beveled Edge: Features an angled cut, typically at 45 degrees. Depending on the size of the bevel, it can look either traditional or modern, adding a subtle geometric detail without being too ornate.
- Half Bullnose: The top edge is rounded, while the bottom is straight. This classic, timeless profile is soft to the touch and easy to clean, making it a great choice for kitchens with kids.
- Full Bullnose: Completely rounded on both the top and bottom edges. This smooth, flowing profile is a traditional favorite, especially for bathroom vanities.
- Ogee Edge: A distinctive, decorative “S” curve. This is a high-end, elegant profile that works well in custom, upscale, and traditional designs.
- Dupont / Cove Dupont: A truly intricate, ornate profile featuring a step or cove followed by a curve. These are considered custom, luxury-tier edges, perfect for statement islands or furniture-style vanities.
Eased Edge vs. Ogee: A Common Comparison
When choosing a countertop edge, you’ll often hear the classic debate: eased vs. ogee. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide.
| Feature | Eased Edge | Ogee Edge |
| Style | Simple, modern | Traditional, elegant |
| Cost | Usually included in base price | Premium upcharge |
| Maintenance | Very easy to clean | May trap more crumbs or dust in the curves |
| Best For | Modern, transitional kitchens | Custom remodels, traditional, or luxury projects |
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In short, choose eased for a clean, contemporary look. Go with ogee if your design is ornate or classical and you want to make a statement.
How Edge Profile Affects Countertop Cost
While some basic edge profiles like eased or pencil are often included in the initial quote, choosing an upgraded profile will increase your final price. Edge pricing is typically calculated per linear foot, so the size of your countertop will have a major impact.
The cost of your edge profile depends on three main factors:
- Complexity – Intricate shapes or stacked designs raise both time and tooling costs.
- Material – Harder stones like quartzite take longer to profile.
- Thickness – Thicker countertops (or laminated edge builds) require more labor.
Pro tip: Edge pricing is usually per linear foot, so large islands and long runs can significantly increase your total if you are wanting custom edge profiles.
Final Tips for Choosing the Right Edge
- Match your cabinet style – Shaker cabinets pair well with eased or beveled; ornate millwork complements ogee or Dupont. Unsure about your cabinets? You can find great cabinet dealers via your local Master Builders websites linked here:
- Olympia Master Builders – covers Thurston, Lewis, Grays Harbor, Mason, and Pacific counties.
- Pierce County Master Builders
- Kitsap Master Builders
- Think long-term – Simple profiles age better in resale and are easier to repair if damaged.
- Ask to see samples – Most showrooms (including ours) have a sample board with real edge cuts.
- Balance form and function – If you have kids or a tight kitchen, rounded edges may be safer and more comfortable.
Need Help Deciding?
At Tops Countertops, we help you select the right countertop edge style based on your material, design goals, and budget. Whether you’re going for a clean modern look or a dramatic custom profile, our fabrication team will make sure it’s done right—every detail matters.
Contact us today or stop by our showroom to see and feel the difference in person.
Not quite ready yet? Maybe give our popular Countertop Buying Guide a skim.