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How to Choose the Best Bar Stools

Holly Honeycutt

By Holly Honeycutt
Updated May 7, 2022

If you have a kitchen island, bar or outdoor space, you’ll probably need bar stools. We’ll show you how to measure properly to determine how many you need. Then we’ll explore different styles and features so you can select the best stools for your space.

A kitchen with pale gray-blue cabinets, light oak flooring and a wooden counter stool.

Determine How Many Bar Stools You Need

A diagram showing the spacing between bar stools at a counter.

When purchasing bar stools for your home, we recommend measuring to determine how many you’ll need. It’s important to give each person enough elbow room to sit comfortably as well as space to easily get in and out.

A general rule of thumb is to give 6 in between stools if the seat is between 16 in – 18 in. If the stool seat is 19 in – 22 in, allow 8 in – 10 in between them.

Bar Stool Heights

A chart showing bar stools at dining, counter, bar and tall heights.

Now that you know how many bar stools your space needs, you’ll need to measure the counter height. This will determine the type of stool to purchase.

Counter-Height Bar Stools
If the counter measures between 35 in – 39 in tall, then Counter-Height Bar Stools are the best choice.

Bar-Height Stools
If the counter measures between 41 in – 43 in tall, then bar-height stools will work for your space.

Tall Bar Stools
If the counter height is between 44 in – 47 in tall, then you’ll need to purchase tall-height bar stools.

Bar Stool Features

A cream and wood modern bar stool and white and silver foldable bar stools in a kitchen.

Here are a few features to consider when purchasing a bar stool for your home.

Styles
From sleek metal and modern to rustic wood and iron, bar stools come in a variety of styles to suit every home. Select stools for contemporary, transitional, traditional, country and coastal interiors and patios.

Colors and Materials
Bar stools come in a wide variety of colors and materials. For a fun pop of color, there are metal stools in bright yellows, pinks, greens and blues. Sleek, modern stools in brass, chrome and rose gold look great in modern spaces. Bar stools upholstered in linen, velvet or leather complement traditional or transitional interiors. All-weather wicker or rattan works well on patios and covered porches.

Other Features
Other notable features to consider when you search for bar stools include: casters for easy mobility, folding or stackable barstools as space savers, and upholstered stools for style and comfort. 

Types of Bar Stools

A bar stool with a linen seat, a wood and metal bar stool and a modern yellow adjustable bar stool.

Adjustable Bar Stools
If you’d like the ability to change the height, consider adjustable bar stools. They can be modified several inches to be used at counter or bar height. They’re also great for families with kids, so you can adjust them to reach the counter.

Bar Stools With a Back
If your kitchen island is the main hangout or eating spot, consider a bar stool with a back. They provide extra support and comfort for extended sitting periods. 

Swivel Bar Stools
The majority of bar stool seats swivel to allow for easy access.

Metal Bar Stools
Some of the most popular bar stools are made of metal and come in finishes ranging from black or bronze to chrome and brass. Depending on the style, metal bar stools work well in modern, traditional, industrial or rustic interiors.

Wooden Bar Stools
Wood is another popular material. Its versatility lends itself to be painted or stained and looks great in modern, traditional, country or cottage interiors.

Patio Bar Stools
If you have a bar on your deck and patio, you’ll need outdoor bar stools. Since they’ll need to be waterproof, patio bar stools are mostly made of all-weather wicker, metal, plastic or wood. Consider stackable chairs for easy storage in the offseason.