Sleek, modern, and dramatic, the waterfall countertop offers a unique look that’s become popular in many homes. In addition to the beauty of a waterfall countertop, they often increase the amount of surface area you have to work with and provide seating in your kitchen. But they aren’t right for every kitchen. Whether one is right for you depends on the look and feel you want and the kitchen space you have to work with.
What Is a Waterfall Countertop?
Waterfall countertops got their name because of the way they “cascade” down the side of a counter. At one or both ends of a kitchen island, the countertop takes a 90-degree turn and descends straight down to the ground. This means the end of the island has a solid wall made of the same material as your countertop.
Waterfall countertops are most often made of stone. Quartz countertops are particularly well-suited because they stand up so well to wear and tear and also because the grain and veining in the stone can be matched easily.
The advantages of a waterfall countertop include:
- Immediate visual impact. The most obvious advantage is the dramatic look of a waterfall countertop. It showcases the countertop material, so if you love the look of natural stone, waterfall countertops are a great choice. The counter edges tend to be straight, not curved in any way, which is consistent with the clean lines of a modern, contemporary kitchen.
- Room for seating. Often, waterfall countertops extend much deeper than the counter they rest on, creating a large overhang on the non-waterfall sides. This creates a nook perfect for sliding in stools and creates a great seating area right in your kitchen.
- More counter space. When the countertop overhang is deep enough for counter stools, the surface area is larger. Whether you use that space for cooking, decorative items, or you want a clean minimalist look, the larger countertop is both functional and visually substantial.
Of course, that doesn’t mean a waterfall counter is the best choice for everyone. There are some kitchens that may be ill-suited to one.
What Are the Potential Downsides to a Waterfall Countertop?
A waterfall counter takes up more visual space and often has a much larger footprint than other counters, which can make smaller kitchens a little claustrophobic. Waterfall counters are best used on islands that lead into large open areas, such as an open-floor-plan kitchen that leads directly into a living room.
Waterfall counters are also more expensive because they require more material. You’ll want to work directly with a granite distributor, so you can choose the perfect material to display at the price that works for you.
The waterfall countertop is a bold design statement, and sometimes bold statements in design fall out of trend. If you question if a waterfall counter will go out of style, keep in mind that good design holds up over time, especially when high-quality materials are used. So if a clean, contemporary look is what you desire, you will love the visual appeal and drama of your waterfall counter for a long time to come.
Should You Get a Waterfall Countertop?
Is a waterfall countertop right for you? That depends on the size of the area you have to work with and the look you want. But if you’ve ever found yourself wishing you had a place at your counter for seats, want more counter space, or just love the look and feel of natural stone, a waterfall counter might be perfect for you. If you’re thinking about replacing your countertops, the best thing to do is visit a showroom. Contact Wholesale Granite today to set up an appointment. Find us online or call us at 817-962-2616.
