Design Ideas for Concrete Waterfall Countertops

See how to transform a traditional concrete countertop into a modern showpiece with this sophisticated design option.
By Anne Balogh, ConcreteNetwork.com

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One of the unique looks you can achieve with concrete countertops is a waterfall effect, where one or both ends of the countertop drop straight down to the floor, like water going over a ledge. This trendy design option is not only big on wow factor, it can serve many practical purposes as well, such as providing a framework for built-in cabinetry, hiding appliances, or concealing plumbing. What’s more, a waterfall edge puts more of your beautiful concrete on display, allowing you to appreciate it from a different perspective.

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Although the waterfall style is not new (it became popular during the Art Deco era of the 1930s) the strong, clean lines make it ideally suited for contemporary design schemes. In addition to countertops, waterfall edges can also be used for concrete bathroom vanities, kitchen islands, bar tops, and furniture.

Ideas for Concrete Waterfall Countertops & Islands

Check out these custom projects to see how concrete waterfall countertops can enhance your kitchen:

Flying Turtle Cast Concrete in Modesto, CA

Casting a waterfall concrete countertop in one piece creates a sleek, seamless look.

O.A.S.I.S. Custom Concrete Designs in Leominster, MA

A waterfall kitchen island featuring a marbleized finish (see how to give concrete countertops the look of granite or marble).

Price Concrete Studio in Orlando, FL

This concrete wet bar incorporates built-in wine storage as part of the waterfall edge (see more concrete bar top ideas)

Artisan Concrete in Austin, TX

A waterfall edge adds a finishing touch to built-in cabinetry.

Hyde Concrete in Pasadena, MD

A waterfall-style concrete grill station with stainless steel appliances provides ample workspace for outdoor cooking.

How Do You Build a Waterfall Concrete Countertop?

There are a number of ways to build a waterfall concrete countertop. The end pieces can be cast separately from the countertop itself, the countertop and ends can be cast as one piece (which eliminates seam lines), or the countertop and side panels can be constructed of plywood or particle board and then covered with a concrete microtopping. It’s also possible to add waterfall edges to an existing concrete countertop or kitchen island if there is enough overhang to accommodate new pieces of the same thickness.

Because waterfall edges significantly increase the overall weight of the countertop, they are often made using glass-fiber-reinforced concrete. In addition to being lighter in weight than conventional concrete, GFRC is easily molded and high in flexural strength, making it ideally suited for three-dimensional concrete creations like waterfall countertops and furniture.

What Is the Cost?

The cost of a waterfall countertop is generally no different than what you’d pay for a conventional concrete countertop. More material will be required, but the cost per square foot is typically the same. As with any concrete countertop, custom elements or special finishes will significantly increase the overall price tag. Fabrication and installation can also be more labor-intensive, which may add to the final cost.

What Are My Design Options?

Waterfall-style concrete countertops are meant to be noticed and often become the focal point of a room. To further enhance their beauty and functionality, try some of these decorative effects:

Add decorative embeds, such as colored glass, strips of metal, or pieces of wood
Incorporate fiber-optic or LED lighting.
Use integral or surface-applied color.
Cast the countertop in one piece using white cement to create a seamless, porcelain-like look.
Instead of forming the edge at a right angle so it’s perpendicular to the countertop, form a slightly rounded edge for a softer look (see these concrete countertop edge profiles).
Angle the side panels to form a geometric shape.
Incorporate built-in shelving for storing items such as wine bottles or spices.

See These Other Waterfall-Style Concrete Projects:

Vanities

Custom Crete Werks in Racine, WI

Water-fall style vanity and sink, cast in white concrete.

Marveled Designs in Chatham, NY

A waterfall edge doesn’t always have to be a focal point. Here, its purpose is to add privacy and conceal plumbing.

Furniture and fireplaces

Concrete Aesthetics Vermont in Milton, VT

A black-colored concrete table features a wood inlay that appears to be flowing down the waterfall edge. (See another project showcasing the dramatic effects that can be achieved by combining concrete and wood.)

Premier Casting Solutions in Holbrook, NY

A simple waterfall leg adds big drama to a floating concrete fireplace hearth.