Waterfall Edges

A waterfall edge like this can make an everyday space more exciting.

I was surprised to learn that the first waterfall edges were used for furniture and made out of plywood. Turns out plywood is inexpensive and easy to mold, making waterfall edged wood furniture all the rage during the Great Depression.

It is always interesting to see how designs evolve over time. Nowadays, you’ll find waterfall edges in kitchens and bathrooms, made out of high quality natural stones like marble, quartzite, soapstone, and granite. Quartz and thick wood slabs are also used.

Aesthetically, waterfall edges have a lot of stopping power. Large seamless stone slabs always have that effect on a space. They are designed to impress.

However, they are also practical. Since they are literally rock solid, you won’t see the same wear and tear on them like you would with a cabinet, and they are definitely easier to keep clean if you don’t mind a little patina. Natural stones always look more beautiful with time, nicks and scratches add character. Less so with cabinetry. We will need to revisit patina vs dirt in a future post!

Some feel waterfall edges are very modern and contemporary but we find that when paired with a vintage rug and some warmer elements, they are quite transitional.

A waterfall edge can also be used to create extra seating in your kitchen. Having extra seating near the chef is always a good idea. That’s always my favorite place to be. It is the best way to get pre-dinner snacks, giggles, and an extra glass of wine. With some luck, you may even be recruited to “help” taste sauces.

FABRICATION TIPS

To keep the movement in the top of the stone continuous, you will need a very large slab.

Seam detail can make all the difference. Ideally, your fabricator would use a control laser cutter (CNC) to precisely miter the edges so they fit together with virtually no visible seam.

A mitered edge is made from 2 slabs, cut and pieced together at a 45 degree angle. The sides will be completely seamless.

A butt edge is made from 2 slabs that are joined by placing their ends together without any special shaping. This style edge is easier to fabricate and less expensive but will not appear to flow without interruption. You will see a long seam across the top of each side.

Work with a fabricator who has a lot of experience cutting mitered waterfall edges. Your designer will be able to provide resources and recommendations for fabrication.