Here's to picking bar or counter stools where every seat feels like the best seat in the house.
Let’s pull up a virtual stool and chat about one of the best seating options for your kitchen or dining space, bar stools and counter stools. These furniture pieces not only add functionality but also bring style to your space. Whether enjoying your morning coffee at the kitchen island, unwinding with friends at the home bar, or cozying up with family in the breakfast nook, the right stools make all the difference. Bar stools should do more than provide a place to sit, they should offer support, comfort, and measurements that fit like a glove while elevating your home’s decor. From height to budget, it can feel like a lot to figure out. But since we’re comfortably seated, let’s explore how to pick the right height, material, and design to choose the best bar stools and counter stools that fit your needs and table height to a T.
How to Choose the Best Bar Stool
Pick Your Stool Height
When outfitting a kitchen island or a stylish bar area, getting the height right is essential. First things first—measure, measure, measure! The height of your bar stools or counter stools can make all the difference in comfort and functionality. You want your stools to be not too high, not too low, but just right for the space you're working with.
Bar Stools
Bar stools typically range from 74 cm to 81 cm in height, making them perfect for higher surfaces like bars. Aim for bar stools that place the seat about 25-30 cm below the counter or bar surface. This ensures you are seated comfortably without feeling too high or too low.
Counter Stools
The height of counter stools generally ranges from 61 cm to 74 cm. These are perfect for kitchen islands or standard counters, leaving about 23-28 cm between the seat and the counter surface to provide a comfortable seating experience without feeling like you are towering over or hunched under the counter.
Measure Up for Comfort
Match your stool height to the height of your counter or table to ensure comfort while sitting.
Counter-height barstool: For counters or tables that are around 89-94 cm high, you should choose a counter-height barstool. These stools generally have a seat height ranging from 58 to 71 cm.
Bar-height barstool: For taller counters or tables, in the range of 104-109 cm high, a bar-height stool is recommended. These stools typically have a seat height between 74 to 81 cm.
Extra tall barstool: If your counter or table is above 112 cm high (often custom-made or unusually tall), you will need an "extra tall" barstool. These stools are specifically designed for these heights and have seat heights ranging from 84 to 91 cm.
Consider Function
Consider how you'll be using your stools. Are they your favorite spot for enjoying morning coffee and toast? Or do they serve as the gathering place for family dinners or cocktail parties with friends? If you plan to spend longer periods sitting, like reading the newspaper or having a leisurely meal, choose counter stools with back support and cushioned seats for added comfort and ease of movement. This will make extended seating much more enjoyable.
And if your kitchen is where everything from cooking experiments to homework sessions takes place, durability is essential. For busy kitchens or family-friendly spaces, go for easy-to-clean materials like metal or wood. After all, who has time to worry about scrubbing stains from delicate fabrics?
If you're doing a bit of "window shopping" for bar stools, these stools can complement your kitchen island while offering a perch for guests or casual visitors.
Choose Your Style
Your bar or counter stools should not only complement your existing decor but also bring a touch of personality to your kitchen island. If you’re drawn to a sleek, modern aesthetic, choose stools with clean lines and metal accents to create an urban loft vibe. On the other hand, if you prefer a warm, farmhouse charm, opt for wooden stools with inviting details like woven seats or subtle metal accents, perfect for a cozy, lived-in feel
Your seating should be as inviting as it is beautiful
Check out the William Counter Stool—available in two refined tones, it adds a warm and welcoming touch to your kitchen island. The beautiful blend of wood and rattan textures provides excellent back and arm support for a truly cozy seating experience. It’s the perfect choice for those seeking stylish and durable bar stools for modern kitchens.
Bonus Round:
How to pick/pair barstools with nearby dining chairs/table
When pairing barstools with dining chairs or a table, aim for a cohesive design while allowing some contrast between the two. Your bar or counter stools aren’t isolated—they’re part of a larger ensemble that includes dining chairs, tables, and the overall decor of your space. They don’t have to be identical, but they should definitely be ‘cousins’ at the family reunion—similar enough to complement each other while adding their own unique touch.
If your dining area and bar are part of an open-plan space, choose bar stools that blend seamlessly with the overall decor. Look for common threads like materials, finishes, or even design motifs that tie them together. If your dining chairs feature a chic upholstery, consider counter stools with a similar fabric vibe or a complementary texture. Match those wood tones or metal finishes across your dining set and bar area for a seamless flow.
If you’re ready to find the best bar and counter stools for your kitchen or dining area, browse through our collection at Woodka Interiors. With options for every style and budget, we’re here to help you create the perfect space where memories are made.