Things You Need to Know Before Investing in a Waterfall Benchtop in 2026

Waterfall benchtops bring modern luxury to kitchens, turning simple surfaces into statement features.

Waterfall benchtops, also called waterfall edge benchtops, have long been used in kitchens, but in modern renovations, they’re a defining feature of premium, luxury designs. From sleek waterfall kitchen islands to dramatic waterfall edge benchtops, this design elevates your space like nothing else.

Whether you’re renovating or building new in Perth, this guide covers everything you need to know about waterfall benchtops, including costs, materials, design tips and whether they’re still in style in 2026.

What is a Waterfall Benchtop?

A waterfall benchtop is a countertop design where the benchtop material continues vertically down one or both sides of the cabinetry, creating a seamless “waterfall” effect from the surface to the floor. You’ll most commonly see this applied to a waterfall kitchen island bench or a waterfall island in open-plan kitchens.

Rather than ending at the cabinet edge, the benchtop becomes a strong architectural feature, turning a functional surface into a visual focal point.

Why Choose a Waterfall over an Island Bench?

One of the biggest reasons homeowners choose a waterfall kitchen bench is the clean, modern aesthetic it creates. The continuous lines feel refined, intentional and luxurious — particularly in contemporary or minimalist homes.

A waterfall edge benchtop also provides practical benefits. The vertical slab protects exposed cabinet ends from wear, scuffs and everyday impact, especially in high-traffic kitchens. In open-plan layouts, a waterfall island helps visually anchor the kitchen and create a smooth transition into living and dining spaces.

For many homeowners, a waterfall kitchen island bench adds perceived value to the home, as it’s often associated with premium and high-end kitchen design.

Are They Expensive?

Yes, waterfall benchtops are generally more expensive than standard benchtops. This is mainly due to the extra material required, the precision involved in mitred joins, and the labour needed for fabrication and installation.

Costs also vary depending on the material used. A waterfall stone benchtop made from engineered or natural stone will sit at a higher price point than laminate or timber alternatives. Additional costs may also apply for book-matched veining or thicker stone profiles.

While the upfront cost is higher, many homeowners see it as an investment in long-term durability and visual impact. Based on our projects using engineered stone from Stone Ambassador, the average cost for a waterfall benchtop on both sides is around $2,000.

Is it Worth It?

A waterfall benchtop is worth it if design, durability and visual impact are high priorities in your kitchen renovation. It works especially well in statement kitchens where the island is a central feature.

While waterfall benchtops are a premium choice, they suit most modern kitchens without compromising functionality. Unlike common misconceptions, a waterfall island bench does not reduce seating space, making it ideal for entertaining and everyday use.

While there are more affordable options available like laminate, at Elite Makeovers we focus on delivering premium projects, ensuring every waterfall benchtop combines high-end design with practicality and lasting quality.

Waterfall Benchtop in 2026

Yes — waterfall benchtops are still very much in style in 2026. They continue to appear in modern waterfall island kitchens, particularly in luxury homes and architect-designed renovations.

Current trends include thicker stone slabs, subtle veining, matte finishes, and minimalist cabinetry to complement the waterfall edge. While trends evolve, the waterfall kitchen benchtop remains a timeless option when paired with well-balanced design choices.

A waterfall benchtop is not outdated and remains a popular feature in modern kitchens. While more expensive than standard options, it offers durability, protection, and strong visual appeal.

Best Materials for a Waterfall Kitchen Benchtop

Engineered stone is one of the most popular choices for waterfall kitchen benchtops due to its durability, low maintenance and consistent appearance. Granite offers a natural look with unique patterns, while marble creates a high-end, luxurious finish but requires more care.

Porcelain and sintered stone are growing in popularity for waterfall kitchen islands because of their strength, heat resistance, and slim profiles. Timber or concrete can also be used for a waterfall edge, though these materials suit more specific design styles.

At Elite Makeovers, we work with three premium benchtop materials — natural stone, porcelain and engineered stone — to suit different design and performance requirements.

Pros and Cons of Waterfall Benchtops

Pros

Visually Stunning

A waterfall benchtop creates an immediate sense of luxury, becoming a striking focal point within the kitchen. The seamless flow of engineered stone from the benchtop to the floor enhances visual continuity and elevates the overall design.

Durable and Long-Lasting

Beyond aesthetics, engineered stone waterfall benchtops are designed for everyday durability. As the benchtop extends down the sides of the cabinetry, it adds an extra layer of protection against knocks, scratches and general wear.

Combined with the strength of engineered stone, this makes waterfall benchtops ideal for high-use kitchens where longevity and performance are just as important as design.

Easy Maintenance and Hygienic

Engineered stone waterfall benchtops are easy to care for and well suited to modern lifestyles. Being 100% non-porous, they do not require sealing and are resistant to stains, moisture and bacteria.

This makes them a practical choice for luxury kitchens where a flawless appearance and effortless maintenance go hand in hand.

Premium Finish with Design Flexibility

Waterfall benchtops offer exceptional versatility in design, complementing contemporary, minimalist and high-end interiors. Engineered stone allows for consistent colour, precise joins and a seamless finish, ensuring the final result is refined and truly premium.

Cons

Higher Investment

A waterfall benchtop is a premium feature and requires additional material and specialist fabrication. While engineered stone offers excellent value compared to natural stone, the overall cost is higher than a standard benchtop. For luxury kitchen renovations, however, this investment is often justified by the elevated finish, durability and long-term value it adds to the space.

Waterfall Kitchen Bench vs Traditional Bench

Compared to a traditional bench, a waterfall kitchen bench delivers far greater visual impact and a more contemporary feel. Traditional benches tend to offer better seating flexibility and lower costs, while waterfall benches prioritise form and architectural presence.

The right choice depends on how you use your kitchen and whether you want the island to be a functional workspace or a design statement.

Design Tips for Waterfall Island Kitchens

When designing a waterfall island kitchen, balance is key. Pair bold stone with warm cabinetry or timber accents to prevent the space from feeling too cold or heavy. Carefully plan seating areas to ensure comfort, especially if the island is used daily.

Veining alignment is also critical for stone waterfall benchtops. A well-matched slab creates a seamless finish, while poor alignment can disrupt the overall look. Always ensure cabinetry and structural support are designed to handle the weight of stone slabs.

At Elite Makeovers, we offer a curated selection of premium benchtop materials, including natural stone, porcelain, and engineered stone. For a truly refined and cohesive design, working with an experienced renovation team ensures the right material, proportions, and detailing are carefully considered. Our approach focuses on delivering tailored, high-end results that elevate both form and function.

Partner with a Luxury Renovation Specialist

A waterfall benchtop is more than just a design trend — it’s a statement feature that can transform the look and feel of your kitchen. Whether you choose a waterfall island bench, a waterfall stone benchtop, or a minimalist waterfall edge, the key is thoughtful planning and quality materials.

When designed well, a waterfall kitchen benchtop delivers timeless appeal, durability, and a refined finish that continues to stand out well beyond current trends. Partner with Elite Makeovers if you are looking for a premium kitchen renovation, we handle projects from start to finish. Contact us at 0404 333 995 or phil@elitemakeovers.com.au to book a design consultation.