The edge profile is the finished shape of the front edge of your worktop, and while it’s a small detail, it has a real effect on the overall look of your kitchen. Here’s a guide to the most common quartz edge profiles and when each one works best.
Pencil round (or eased) edge
A simple, subtle rounding of the sharp top and bottom corners of the worktop. It’s the most understated option, keeping the visual focus on the worktop’s colour and pattern rather than the edge itself, a safe, versatile default for most kitchens.
Bullnose edge
A fully rounded, smooth curve across the entire edge thickness. Bullnose edges feel soft to the touch and are a popular choice for family kitchens and anywhere young children are around, since there are no sharp corners at all.
Bevelled (or chamfered) edge
A flat, angled cut across the top edge, creating a crisp, architectural line rather than a curve. Bevelled edges suit contemporary, handle-less kitchens where clean geometric lines are part of the overall design language.
Half bullnose edge
A rounded top edge with a flat, square bottom edge, a hybrid that softens the visible top line while keeping a crisp underside. A good middle ground between a pencil edge and a full bullnose.
Mitred (built-up) edge
Two pieces of the same slab are joined at a 45-degree angle along the front edge, doubling the visible thickness. This is the technique used to make a 20mm slab look like a substantial 40mm edge: see our guide to 20mm vs 30mm thickness for more detail.
Waterfall edge
Technically an application rather than a standard front-edge profile, a waterfall edge continues the worktop material down the side of an island in one seamless run, usually joined with a mitred corner. See our full guide to waterfall ends.
How to choose an edge profile
- Contemporary, handle-less kitchen: a bevelled or pencil edge keeps the look clean and architectural.
- Traditional or Shaker kitchen: a bullnose or half-bullnose edge feels softer and more classic.
- Family kitchen with young children: a full bullnose removes sharp corners entirely.
- Want a substantial, chunky look: a mitred edge gives you that on 20mm material.
Frequently asked questions
Does the edge profile affect the price?
Standard profiles like pencil round are usually included as the baseline; decorative or built-up edges (bullnose, mitred) involve more fabrication time and can add to the cost. See our cost guide.
Can I mix edge profiles in one kitchen?
It’s unusual but not impossible: most kitchens use one consistent profile throughout for a cohesive look, though a different treatment on an island edge (such as waterfall) is common.
What edge profile is best for a family kitchen?
A full bullnose edge is popular where safety around sharp corners is a priority, particularly with young children.
Explore more
Browse the full range of 47 designs, read about thickness options, or see our guide to waterfall ends. Get a quote for your project.