With fall festivities and the holidays already encroaching, you'll be hosting dinners and entertaining guests before you know it (we're sorry, it's sooner than you think!). This time of year, one of the best ways to add functional seating to almost any space is with bar stools. They're great, and they come in all different sizes and styles, so the versatility is boundless. Here is the Kuotes' buying guide to choosing a bar stool you'll love (and be able to fit under your countertops or your counter height bar).
Pro Tip: So you bought a bunch of stools, now where do they go? Place stools to have about 26-30 inches measured from the center of one stool to the center of the stool next to it. This allows enough space for everyone to eat, work, and socialize without bumping elbows. Pro Tip: Don't you hate when you board the bus or a plane and there's not enough leg room?. For leg spacing, account for 9-12 inches between the top of the stool seat and the bottom of your countertop or bar surface. This is essential if you plan for kitchen dining with your barstools.
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There are three main types of bar stool heights you need to know
Table Stool Height (Short Stool)
Shorter stools of this height are less common in design than other heights, but they can serve as the perfect creative substitute to chairs at a table or breakfast nook, especially if you're going for a more casual look. They even make nice-looking accent chairs.Counter Stool Height
These are the stools you want for your average 36" counter top. They act as the perfect seating in the kitchen, or even in a living area. They are not quite as tall as the stools you'll see in a restaurant or bar, so they're easy and accessible seating for all areas. (Plus, just look at the acrylic on this one! Excuse my ogling.)Bar Stool Height
These are the stools that probably come to mind when someone says stool (well...at least if you're talking furniture). A 30-inch bar stool is usually the perfect fit for your typical bar or 42-inch countertop. These stools are the kinds you'll find at bars, so they don't do well around the dining table, but throw them into your designs for your garage or workroom; they look especially good with a modern farmhouse aesthetic! The final step? Just fill up your wine glasses and say "cheers!"Click to shop!
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Barstool Features to Look For
An adjustable height. Some bar stools come with a hydraulic pump that allows you to adjust the seat. This feature is great for families who may have both children and adults using the stools at different times. A swivel top. A swivel top allows the seat to move from side to side without moving the chair base. This feature is the ideal for easy dining and multitasking, and they are best placed at the kitchen island, dining room (as a dining chair), living room, or breakfast nook!Click to shop!
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Pro Tip: So you bought a bunch of stools, now where do they go? Place stools to have about 26-30 inches measured from the center of one stool to the center of the stool next to it. This allows enough space for everyone to eat, work, and socialize without bumping elbows. Pro Tip: Don't you hate when you board the bus or a plane and there's not enough leg room?. For leg spacing, account for 9-12 inches between the top of the stool seat and the bottom of your countertop or bar surface. This is essential if you plan for kitchen dining with your barstools.
Click to shop!
Shop the Look
Kathy Kuo Home Design Services
Feeling inspired? In addition to being a source for beautiful high quality furnishings and decor, Kathy Kuo Home has a team of professional interior designers that are ready to assist with all of your interior design needs. Our services provide multiple layout and design options that fit your style and budget for any room. You will work with a team of designers and project managers to help you love where you live.
Call (888) 908-3486 or email designs@kathykuohome.com today to get started!
