Barstools

How to Choose Barstools

Compared to standard dining room seating, bar stools are less formal but essential in homes with breakfast bars or islands. These pieces are versatile and great for reading the paper alone at the counter or for extra seating at large gatherings. Since there's so much to choose from, it's important to have an idea of what'll work in your space before you start shopping.

Size

Height is a crucial factor to consider when looking at bar stools. Choosing pieces that are either too high or low makes for uncomfortable seating. You should start by measuring your space to find the correct size, but as a rule, there should be about 10 or 11 inches of space between the top of the barstool and the bottom of the counter.

While the seat of a standard chair is about 18 inches off of the floor, stools are offered in two different heights: counter height and bar height.

• Counter height stools are designed to provide a comfortable seat at the kitchen counter. Counters are about 36 inches off of the floor, making a stool with a seat at about 24 inches the perfect pairing. These stools are ideal for counter height tables as well
• Bar stools are designed for comfortable seating at a bar height table or bar. The seats on these pieces are approximately 30 inches above the floor, providing flawless accommodations for a 42-inch tall bar or table.
• Adjustable height bar stools offer flexibility and custom fit. Some adjustable bar stools will adjust up or down by just a few inches to provide personalized comfort; however, others are available that will adjust from bar height to counter height, or from counter height to standard chair height for versatility in your home.

To seat everyone comfortably with plenty of elbow room, there should be at least six inches of space between seats. Take into consideration the size of the backs and arms of your barstools to ensure you have allocated enough space. Narrower stools are good for saving space. Depending on the bar length, you may be able to fit an extra chair when you buy small pieces. However, large seats are more comfortable and better for extended sitting.

Budget

Budget is a big factor when looking at bar stools. If you envision your bar as a go-to social spot, then allow a decent budget to buy quality stools. If you plan to use them sparsely or only to complement the look of the breakfast bar, then a modest budget is fine.

Choosing a Style

Bar stools come in a range of shapes and designs and have loads of possible features, like saddle, backless, arms, foot bars, height adjustment, and ability to swivel. Begin by determining what features are priorities, and then consider which styles will best fit your room. Whether your taste is a country bar or sleek minimalist, bar stools will add a stylish touch. And don't limit yourself to indoor options; outdoor bar stools have become a popular choice for outdoor living and entertaining; with many designs that are stylish and versatile enough for both indoor and outdoor use.

Selecting Colors

Homeowners often match bar stools with kitchen cabinets or countertops. In many cases, it is visually appealing for bar stools to have legs that match the tone of the room's woodwork and tops that contrast it. If the kitchen has an overall muted color, then a vibrant red, green, or blue bar stool can be an excellent accent to the room. Or match earthy tones with similar beige, brown, cherry, or walnut shades. Find additional hues like:

• Black
• Gray
• White

Choosing Materials

Most bar stools and counter height stools are built upon wooden or metal frames and legs. Wood is more traditional and carries a warm, classic character reminiscent of old pub seating or rustic living. Metal has contemporary or transitional appeal. It works well in kitchens with stainless steel appliances and metal hardware. The seats and backs can be crafted from the same material as the base or they can be padded and upholstered in fabric or leather, with some bar stools offering a combination of multiple materials. As with other furnishings, enhancements like tufting, nailhead trim, carved detailing or scrolled metal embellishments can elevate the stool design. Common wood stains include walnut or cherry and popular metal finishes include polished chrome, copper or pewter.