Pro Tips for Choosing the Perfect Counter Stool
A kitchen with island seating is one of our favorites to design and a popular choice among clients because of its many uses. From on-the-go breakfasts, informal dinners, at home offices to crafting zones, the options are endless. Before selecting the perfect counter stool for your space there are a few things to consider, like height, style and material. Our Design Team has sourced thousands of counter stools so we’ve got lots of tips to share with you! Here’s a quick guide to make sure you get the best option to serve your space and your lifestyle.
Choosing the Right Height Counter Stool
Before you begin your search, make sure you’re not making the common mistake of confusing bar stools for counter stools (we’ve seen this so many times!)
A standard countertop height is 34” to the bottom of the counter and the typical rule is that there needs to be at least 9” of space between the seat and the counter to allow people to fit comfortably. Make sure you’re looking at stools that stand anywhere from 24”-27” from floor to seat. Grab your tape measure, note your kitchen counter height and when browsing, make sure to read those product descriptions and ensure that you have that 9” minimum of space between seat height and counter height.
Choosing the Best Material
While making sure the material you select fits into your design aesthetic, it’s also about making sure it serves your lifestyle. For example, if you have kids, a light colored upholstered stool might not be a great choice…and trust us, we’re speaking from experience! When it comes to materials, there’s 6 major options out there. While this is a general guide, this will help you think about the vibe that these materials create and the lifestyles they serve best.
Plastic/Acrylic
Contemporary, Modern & Glam
Wears well and is easy to clean which makes it a great option for kiddos
Metal
Modern & Industrial
Highly durable
Wood
California Modern, Transitional & Farmhouse
Great for warming up a space and brining in an earthy aesthetic
Leather
Modern & Farmhouse
Brings a luxurious & elevated feel to your space and wears well
Fabric/Upholstered
Works well with most design styles
Adds a cozy, casual feel and are comfortable for long term seating
Rattan/wicker
Boho & Farmhouse
Adds texture and dimension
Choosing the Right Style
Swivel - If you have an open concept living space and do a lot of entertaining, a swivel stool might be just what you need as they allow you to easily socialize with people in different areas. They’re also great for layouts where you might want to be able to turn and watch tv in a corresponding room.
Backless - This style offers a sleek, minimal look as they can easily tuck under the counter and out of sight.
With Arms - Designed to provide that “stay awhile” vibe, stools with arms are ideal for seats that will be occupied often and they also provide an extra sense of stability. If you have kids or frequently sit at your island, this might be the best option for you.
Current Favorites
As you can see, we’ve designed A LOT of kitchens (head to our portfolio to see them all) and have browsed through thousands of counter stools, searching for beautiful options for our clients and we want to share our finds with you! Here’s a round up of our favorite 25 counter stools we know you’ll love.
Love The stools we selected?
If you’re looking to kick-start a project, let’s connect! Working with a Designer will not only save you from making costly mistakes but help the overall project go more smoothly.
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