Counter & Bar Stools

Finding the right bar stools for your kitchen is essential to your overall aesthetic. With the wide variety of styles that are available, each will impact your decor differently. Traditional stools with nail head trim and ornate legs promote an atmosphere of elegant formality, while handsomely weathered rustic stools are better for homey dining spaces. If you are going for urban chic, use industrial stools made from distressed metal and wood. But, if your home is more contemporary and minimalist, the straightforward flair of modern stools will fit right in. When in doubt, the versatile design of transitional style pairs beautifully with almost any decor.

While shopping for stools, consider which features you need. Any room where people often gather for long periods of time will need stools with cushioned seats to keep them comfortable, and exceptionally tall stools will need footrests for support. Arms and curved backs can also help make a guest more comfortable. Swiveling seats permit more fluid adjustments, enabling you to reach around you at will. These features are optional and may not be right for the style of your home, so it comes down to personal preference and necessity.

One of the most important things to consider when shopping for bar stools is how high you need the seats to be. Measure the height of your counter or bar before making a purchase. The standard height for kitchen counters is thirty-five inches. For counters this high, counter-height stools with seats between twenty-four and twenty-seven inches off the ground are recommended. Bars are usually a bit taller than counters, often measuring around forty-two inches high. For a bar this high, stools with seats between twenty-eight and thirty-three inches high will work best. For some versatile convenience, you could also get a stool with a height-adjustable seat.

The quality of a bar stool depends greatly on what it is made from, and a stool’s materials will have a significant impact on your decor. Wood is used for crafting stools in every style, so it is a safe option for uncertain buyers. Fabric or leather upholstery pairs beautifully with traditional furnishings and makes a stool more luxurious. Bare metal stools are ideal for modern and industrial styles. Metal barstools are often the sturdiest but they are also heavy, while well-made wooden barstools are more light-weight and almost as durable. However, metal and wood stools should only be used indoors to prevent water damage. For outdoor spaces, use stools made from plastic, coated metal, or all-weather wicker.

Stools with backs are generally more comfortable than stools without them because they support you while you lounge, making them better for counters and bars where people spend more time. Backless stools and low-back stools are a great low-profile option for minimalist spaces. Most of the time, a stool without a back can be slipped underneath your counter when not being used. Additionally, a chair without a back is easier to get in and out of, making them great for spaces where people are going to be coming and going quickly.