Breakfast bars and kitchen islands are becoming an increasingly common feature in modern kitchen designs. In many homes, formal dining areas are even being replaced by islands and large open-plan kitchens. As the kitchen tends to be the centre point of the home, it's no surprise really that many guests congregate there when visiting. The kitchen seems more casual and less daunting than a traditional dining room with its dining table and chairs. Of course, a dining room has its place for certain occasions, but entertaining and the serving of tea, coffee, and biscuits is often more suited to the casual comfort that bar stools provide. Still, deciding on the right bar stool for you, your family, and your specific island can leave many of us lost and unable to make a decision. Still, loaded with some important information, many of us can go on to make a fully informed purchasing decision, which is why we've compiled this essential guide. In this EZ Living Furniture bar stool guide, we discuss the different types of bar stools, their features, and materials!
Buy Right
When choosing the most appropriate bar stool for you, it’s important to focus on why you are purchasing one in the first place and the function you would want it to serve. Do you want to seat large groups of people in your home when entertaining? Do you want an area in your home where you can drink your morning coffee? Or do you want to fill an open space and add character to your room? Maybe it’s all of the above, but whatever the reason is behind your decision to purchase, make sure this is at the forefront of your mind before purchasing.
Bar Stools VS Kitchen Stools
You may be surprised to learn that bar stools and kitchen stools (or counter stools) aren't the same. Bar counters are typically higher than kitchen islands, and because of this, many stools vary in height depending on their name. To avoid any potential purchasing errors, it's important to measure your island's/counter's height and compare it against the stool you plan to purchase.
A bar stool typically measures between 28” and 32” (71cm - 81cm) from the floor to the seat.
A kitchen stool typically measures between 24” and 27” (61cm - 69cm) from the floor to the seat.
You must always allow clearance of at least 8”- 10” (20cm - 25cm) from the stool seat to the top of the counter when measuring. This ensures sufficient leg room to get in and out of your stool comfortably.
Understanding these measurements can help you decide whether you should purchase a bar or kitchen stool.
Stool Features
As mentioned, bar stools can be used more frequently than dining chairs; therefore, finding a good quality option that's sturdy, durable, and timeless in its design is essential. However, there are also many additional features to look for and worth careful consideration before you fully commit.
Adjustable Height
Stools with adjustable heights come fitted with hydraulic gas-lift mechanisms. This feature allows the person sitting on the stool the option to adjust the height of the stool to suit their height and comfort.
Advantages:
1. Perfect for seating individuals of varying heights.
2. Can be used at both bar counters and kitchen islands.
3. Multipurpose. These bar stools can be placed in a sitting room, dining room, or even bedroom to accommodate any situation because they can be lowered and heightened.
Swivel
A swivel feature allows the bar stool user to spin around and ti spin from side to side.
Advantages:
1. In an open-plan setting, guests can simply spin around to join a conversation in adjacent rooms (dining room or sitting room), or swivel to face the kitchen.
2. It is easier to get into. Simply turn the stool to meet you when sitting in it or getting out of it. When getting out of a non-swivel bar stool, you will have to move the stool back fully to get out of it.
Combination Adjustable Height & Swivel
There are bar stools available with adjustable height and swivel features all in one.
Advantages
1. All of the above.
Stool Design
There are a surprising number of stool design options to choose from, each with its own set of benefits.
A backless stool can be easily stored under a bar counter or kitchen island.
A high-backed stool will offer greater support and comfort to those sitting in it for long periods of time.
A footrest can elevate your feet and legs to a height that's more comfortable for your body. When there is no footrest and a person’s legs hang down, it can feel quite unstable. A footrest will add to the overall stability of a bar stool.
Fabrics & Materials
Once you have decided on the essential features required for your bar stool(s), the focus should then turn to the next decision, i.e. colour schemes and fabrics. A general guide is to follow the colour scheme or theme already in the room you plan to place the high stool in. Don't flat out copy the colours you already have, but instead include colours that complement or contrast against them to create a real focal point at your kitchen counter/counter.
If you have a rustic wooden theme throughout the room, it's ok to follow the theme and choose a wooden bar stool. Should you have a grey theme, instead choose bar stools in a colour that will stand out against the grey (mustard is a great choice). It is that simple!
Leather bar stools should also be considered, especially for households with small children, as spills can be easily wiped away with a damp cloth.
Just like other items of furniture, bar stools typically belong to a larger collection. Stools can be matched with dining chairs or benches from the same collection, and this will allow for consistency throughout your space. This is also a great way to experiment with colour.
Multiple Stool Spacing
Lastly, for multiple stools sitting next to each other, it is recommended to leave at least 6" (15cm) between each stool for optimal comfort and to allow for spinning around in a swivel chair.
Our full range of bar and kitchen stools can be found here.
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