Every now and then, clients will tell us, “I love this stone so much, I wish I could cover my whole wall with it!”
While that’s not an option for most homes, we steer them toward the next best thing: a waterfall countertop.
Also known as ‘risers’, a waterfall counter can be installed on the end of an island or on the open side of perimeter counters. Not only do they look amazing, but they also bring some great benefits that can help upgrade your kitchen.
In this post, we’ll dive into why a waterfall edge countertop might be the perfect fit for your home. But before we get into that, let’s break down what they are.
What is a Waterfall Countertop?
Waterfall countertops look like they decided not to stop at the edge. Instead of ending at the sides of the island, they flow right over, almost like they’re cascading onto the floor. That’s where the name comes from—the counter seems to “fall” from the top down the sides.
Often made with natural stone, these countertops are usually waterproof and, as you might guess, on the pricier side. But the sleek, bold impact they make is hard to, well, top.
Key Benefits of Installing a Waterfall Countertop
Now that you know what a waterfall countertop island is, let’s talk about why you should consider adding one to your kitchen.
1. Modern and Sleek Aesthetic Appeal
Just like a stylish fireplace or a bold accent wall draws attention in the living room, a waterfall countertop on your kitchen island does the same—it pulls the eye right to the center of the space. The way the material flows smoothly over the edge creates a clean and sleek design that stands out, especially in open-concept homes where you can see the kitchen from different angles.
Whether you’re going for a simple, minimalist style or something fancier, a kitchen waterfall countertop fits right in. And the best part? It works with all kinds of materials, so it’s an incredibly versatile choice no matter what look you’re after.
2. Enhanced Durability and Protection
Because waterfall countertops wrap around your kitchen island, they protect the veneer or laminates of your base cabinets from the usual scratches, chips, and cracks that come with a busy kitchen.
But it’s not just the design doing all the work—these countertops are usually made from sturdy materials like quartz, granite, or marble that are incredibly difficult to scuff up. Between the gorgeous aesthetic and tough materials, your kitchen stays pristine, even with all the daily wear and tear.
3. Showcases High-End Materials
If you’ve gone the extra mile to find that perfect, one-of-a-kind natural stone for your kitchen, you definitely want to show it off! A waterfall counter puts your stone on display, almost like a piece of art.
Usually, you only get to appreciate your countertops from above when you’re standing. But with a waterfall design, the beauty of your stone is extended down the sides, so you can enjoy it even when you’re relaxing on the couch in the living room.
A quick tip: if you’re working with linear-patterned granite, have your installers make sure the lines flow across the island and down the side for a beautiful, chic vibe.
4. Functional Space Expansion
Another fantastic benefit of a waterfall edge countertop is the extra functionality it brings to your kitchen. For instance, if you have a kitchen island, the waterfall edge can double as extra seating space. Just add some stools, and you’ve got a casual dining area or a spot for guests to hang out while you cook.
The extra surface also adds more usable counter space for food prep- perfect for those who love to entertain or need extra room for cooking. And if you’re feeling fancy, you can turn the extended area into a cozy breakfast nook or a minibar.
5. Easy Maintenance
Waterfall counters are also highly practical when it comes to maintenance. Since the surface is continuous, there are fewer nooks and crannies for dirt to hide. No more stressing over grime getting stuck in annoying edges or hard-to-reach spots.
If you go with a non-porous material like quartz, it’s even better. Quartz is stain-resistant and doesn’t need sealing, so it’s about as low-maintenance as it gets. A quick wipe with a damp cloth and boom—your countertop looks brand new again.
6. Increased Home Value
Potential buyers are drawn to modern, high-end features that make a home pop, and a waterfall countertop definitely delivers. It adds a touch of luxury that makes your home much more appealing when it’s time to sell. Plus, with a feature like this, you’ll likely be able to set a higher asking price!
Practical Considerations Before Installing
Even with the benefits of waterfall counters, there are a few things to consider before making a purchase.
Cost
There’s no way around it: waterfall counters are pricier than regular ones, typically because they require more material and precision to install. The waterfall countertop cost will largely depend on what stone type you choose. Marble and granite are on the higher end. Quartz is a bit more budget-friendly but still looks great.
Material
Speaking of materials, you’ve got options. Marble gives you a luxurious, classy vibe but is a little high-maintenance- it’s prone to stains and scratches.
Quartz, on the other hand, is durable and easy to maintain, though it doesn’t have the natural veining you get with marble.
Granite is somewhere in between- strong and resilient with a more earthy, natural vibe.
Professional Installation
Despite what home design magazines might suggest, installing a waterfall countertop is definitely not a DIY project. It takes incredible skill and precision to cut and install the slab perfectly. Trust us—this is a job best left to the pros.
That’s where the team at OMG Kitchen & Bath comes in. We’ll make sure everything looks flawless, and by the time we’re done, you’ll be wondering why you didn’t go for a waterfall countertop sooner!
Where Do Waterfall Countertops Look Best in the Kitchen?
Not sure where to add a waterfall countertop in your kitchen? We have a few suggested spots for you.
Kitchen Islands
A waterfall counter on a kitchen island is an instant showstopper. The smooth, continuous surface adds weight to your kitchen design and immediately attracts attention. Feel free to add some stools under the overhang to create a casual dining space!
Open-Plan Kitchens
If you have an open-plan layout, a granite waterfall countertop can seamlessly blend your kitchen into the rest of your home. Position the counter on the side that faces your living or dining area to connect the spaces.
Final Thoughts
Waterfall counters have been around for decades—and it looks like they’re here to stay. If you’re planning a kitchen remodel and want to do something different, a waterfall countertop is a great way to mix things up. It adds a modern touch and gives your home’s resale value a nice boost. You won’t regret it!
Ready to take the next step? Contact OMG Kitchens today to start planning your dream kitchen with a custom waterfall countertop! We’re here to help you create a kitchen that’s not only functional but also a stunning reflection of your style.
