Countertop Lip . The most basic countertop edge is the straight edge. While full bullnose edges will make a countertop look thinner, half. Countertop lip to avoid spills Countertops, Spills, Lips from www.pinterest.com Keep in mind that this is 1 ½ inches over the front edge of the base cabinet. These countertops are reluctant to heat and high temperature. In the kitchen, the standard countertop depth of 25 ½ inches allows for enough of a difference to make the cabinet doors or drawers accessible.