In the countertop and design world, a waterfall isn’t (usually) a reference to the natural water feature. It is the term used for when stone (or whatever material is on a counter) flows over the edge and runs down to the ground, typically at the end of a run or short side of an island. It can be used on smaller details, too, though like a shower wall, or similar.
This has become an increasingly popular design feature in the countertop world. Whether at one end of an island or both ends of an island to the same on a vanity and even just an open end to a counter run, this is used on, at least, 50% of the projects we do. It is a very sleek and clean look, which over the past 10 years has been the general design trend. Rounded shapes are making a come back, so we will see how waterfalls incorporate into this trend.
One of the reasons they are so popular is that they highlight every material. Even a pure white quartz is elevated using a waterfall, as it creates a contemporary flourish. If you are using a more veined material, the beauty of it is even more visible, as the pattern of the stone continues and careens onto the waterfall edge, featuring as a vertical show piece.
A waterfall edge is usually done with a mitered cut which makes it look like one seamless piece. Many times our customers will also build up the thickness of the tops using a mitered edges, so this built up edge continues down the waterfall. It is very striking and creates a distinct design feature that will probably be used for many decades, even with changing trends.
Waterfall edges are a great addition to any project and provide a creative and unique feature for your home.
