Selection of bar stools: 7 characteristics to consider

1. BAR STOOL HEIGHT – The primary consideration is the height of the table or counter from the floor to the surface. The general rule of thumb is to leave 10″ to 13″ between the seat of the bar stool and the bottom of the table or counter. For example, a 42″ high table or counter may work better with standard size 30″ bar stools. Be sure to consider any other obstacles, such as a counter overhang, that could affect legroom.

2. STYLE: The style of decoration defines the character of a room, whether it is retro, modern or traditional. Retro bar stools are the perfect complement to vintage and 1950s style interiors. Modern bar stools enhance the unique patterns and construction of contemporary furniture. Traditional stools are combined with many styles of decoration. Of course, rules go out the window for the eclectic home that is created with multiple themes, shapes, or colors.

3. BACK OR WITHOUT BACK and WITH OR WITHOUT ARMRESTS: One option is not better than the other, but stools with back and without back are totally different in terms of form and function. Backless bar stools take up less space, are less visually intrusive, and sit neatly under counters. Backrest bar stools offer the comfort of backrests and the beauty created by the shapes of their backrests. Similarly, the armrests offer an optional comfort feature. Evaluate if the space allows armrests to fit under the counter or if the space allows bar stools to be placed with the armrests touching the counter.

4. SWIVEL OR NON-SWIVEL: This decision should be based on movement preference. Swivel bar stools allow the occupant to easily rotate out of the table or counter space. Twists provide an easy twisting motion to visit other people. On the other hand, non-swivel bar stools provide stationary seating, for those who prefer not to move.

5. UPHOLSTERED OR NOT UPHOLSTERED: Consider comfort, appearance, and care. Upholstered models offer cushioned seating as well as a creative outlet to introduce fabric color, texture or pattern into a room. Non-upholstered models have a classic look and do not need cleaning or reupholstering if they become worn or dirty.

6. MATERIAL/CONSTRUCTION: The bar stool is an increasingly popular and practical piece of furniture that is branching out into many material combinations, including wood, metal, chrome, and even fiberglass. A purely preferential decision, select the construction based on the furniture with which it will be combined. For example, consider continuing with a type of wood stain or color already present in the room or introducing a different material, such as metal, to add variety.

7. GEOMETRIC AESTHETICS: Choose bar stools with curvaceous designs or traditional square lines based on existing furniture and architectural elements in the room. Perhaps it would be visually appealing to continue a square or linear style with other square and rectangular furniture. Perhaps dividing up a room filled with horizontal and vertical lines with some rounded bar stool features, like a curved back or round seat, would add interest to the living room.

Fold your handy checklist and shop for the bar stools of your dreams. Then, when you think you’ve found the perfect bar stools for your home, just make sure you’re buying furniture that works for your home and makes you want to come home every day.