Choosing the Best Barstools for Your Bar

In recent years, bar stools have become a kitchen necessity, but there are many factors you need to consider before purchasing them, such as height, material, and whether or not they can swivel. From style to functionality, you need to be aware of every aspect to minimize the possibility of regret.

1. Size of bar stools

(1) Height: Bar stools come in various heights depending on the design of the backrest. Backless bar stools have the lowest height, while full back stools have the highest. Bar stools come in four standard seat height sizes: low stool, counter height, bar height and extra high. Each stool height should be paired with a different table height. To determine which you need, simply measure the height of your tabletop or kitchen counter and refer to the chart above. In all cases, there should be a 10" - 12" distance between the bar stool seat and the bottom of the counter or table.

(2) Width: The most common bar stool widths are 15", 17" and 21". However, the seat width of your bar stools will also have a direct impact on the number of stools your space can accommodate. Measure the width of your counter or bar and keep this value in mind when browsing for stools. We recommend leaving 26" to 30" between the centers of each bar stool. Leave at least 6" of space between each stool so you can easily get on and off the stool without bumping elbows with others. Wider stool seats should allow more space between them, with 8"- 10" of space between stools and a stool width of 19 - 22" wide.

2. Types of bar stools

There are a lot of details and features that make up the style of bar stools.

(1) Backless Bar Stools: If you want to keep your kitchen furniture minimalist, then backless bar stools are an easy choice. Backless bar stools are usually made of metal, wood, and acrylic, so be warned that these may not be the most comfortable option for a long coffee break. However, these stools are usually round in shape and are perfect if you want to save space and prefer to hide the stools under the counter.

(2) Bar Stools with Arms: If comfort is your top priority, then bar stools with arms are the best choice. Armrests provide more support than backless stools. Because these stools are wider than other styles, this means you may not be able to fit as many stools under the counter as planned.

(3)Upholstered Seating Bar Stools: If your family eats most of their meals at the kitchen counter, upholstered seating is a luxurious option. Upholstered seats create a nice style and make them look more formal than other wood or metal seats.

(4)Swivel Bar Stools: Choose swivel bar stools to make getting in and out of the breakfast bar or kitchen island a breeze. Swivel bar stools also provide you with maximum range of motion, making conversation easier.

3. Frame material

As with any other piece of furniture, material matters when choosing bar stools. Whether you want to match a particular style or need a durable material, weigh the pros and cons of the most common bar stool materials below.

(1)Wood: Wooden bar stools are a sturdy (albeit expensive) option for almost any style aesthetic. For added comfort, choose wooden bar stools with upholstery, but keep them indoors. If you want to use wooden bar stools outdoors, choose denser woods such as teak, eucalyptus, and acacia, which are the most resistant to weather and pests.

(2)Metal: Bar stools made of metal usually have a smooth profile and are particularly suited to tight spaces as well as those with a more industrial or modern aesthetic. Keep in mind that metal bar stools should always be used indoors to prevent rusting.

(3)Rattan and Wicker: Rattan and wicker bar stools have a casual, timeless appeal that works well in kitchens and solariums. They are lightweight and can be moved around, but unless they are made of all-weather wicker, they should be placed in a covered area.

4. Style of bar stools

(1) Modern: look for metal elements, low to medium-height backrests and comfortable padding.

(2) Traditional: these stools are usually made of wood. For bar wear, a backless with padding is a classic choice. For dining tables, stools with backs and arms are a good choice, just like traditional dining chairs.

(3) Industrial: this style focuses on industrial materials such as metal and plastic, and industrial bar stools usually have swivel seats.

(4) Casual: These stools are usually backless or have a lip back. They have a minimalist vibe with little to no padding and are often made of wood. This is a great option for small spaces where the kitchen counter doubles as a breakfast bar.

Bar stools are easy to buy when you have the right measurements and know the style you want for your space.