There are practical and aesthetic considerations that go along with creating a beautiful kitchen. One of the most important things is the furniture, like bar stools, that offer lots of sitting space and play a role in the design. These stools have a dual function: aesthetics and comfortable seating. Learn how to pick the right bar stools to fit your space, with a balance between style and comfort.
Why Bar Stools Matter in Your Kitchen Design
Bar stools have become invaluable in the modern kitchen. Use the stools to help connect your kitchen to the dining area (or even the living room). They’re useful, turning the average kitchen island or breakfast nook into double-duty seating for a quick meal or drinks. Ideally, the right bar stools make the island or counter the star of the show.
Make sure you know the style, height, and material that will resonate with the rest of the kitchen. These stools run the gamut of style, from simple and contemporary to those with a rustic or traditional feel. Choosing the option that fits with the rest of the kitchen can set the tone for the room. For example, stools made with wood add richness and texture to a kitchen that is slim on personality. A metal stool with a sheen, on the other hand, adds a more polished contrast.
Think About the Size of Your Kitchen
Before you have your heart broken by a pair of bar stools you’ve seen online or in a store, don’t rush to buy anything before you know how they would fit into your kitchen’s layout. Depending on the space, choose stools that are low profile and don’t crowd the kitchen in any way.
If you can go for some bar stools with backrests, as they will always give you more comfort.
Speaking of small kitchens, look for backless stools, which work better for tight spaces. If your kitchen design allows it, look for ways to personalize your seating opportunities. Various models, from stylish modern design and swivel seating to height-adjustable stools and ultra-elegant pieces, offer different finishes to complement your kitchen atmosphere.
Why Height Is Important
The first rule of shopping for new bar stools is to understand their size. They generally come in two sizes: counter height and bar height. Counter height stools are 24 inches to 26 inches tall. They are designed for a kitchen island or an under-counter space that is roughly 36 inches high. Bar height stools are 28 inches to 30 inches tall and are used at bars or higher countertops.
Make sure you leave enough space between the seat and the counter for people to sit comfortably. How much space is ideal? There should be roughly 9 – 12 inches of space between the top of the seat and the underside of the counter.
Choosing the Right Material
The material of the stools will also impact their appearance. Leather or an upholstered cushion can feel high-end and luxurious, while a metal or wooden frame can feel more industrial or organic. So, take into consideration the other finishes and fixtures in your space. Pairing finishes that are opposite materials may create a tension that feels warm and inviting. For example, a clean metal stool for a rustic wooden kitchen island conveys visual interest.
For cleaning and maintenance, think about how often you use the kitchen. You will get the best beauty and function if you shop from a brand like Serena & Lily. However, regardless of where you shop, the most forgiving materials are vinyl and leather. If your kitchen is constantly full of hungry kids and their friends, consider one that can be easily wiped down.
Matching Your Bar Stools with Your Kitchen’s Style
If your kitchen is modern, look for thin profiles and subdued finishes or neutral tones. For rustic or farmhouse kitchens, consider wood with distressed finishes or intricate construction. A transitional kitchen might benefit from clever construction with an antique finish. Whether you’re shopping online or getting ready to head to a furniture store, make the most of the time by choosing what works.
If you need help selecting a style, narrow your search to a few top brands. You can browse Serena & Lily’s extensive collection, which offers something for everyone. The collection includes traditional and modern designs guaranteed to inspire. There is an option to fit your kitchen style.
The Finishing Touches
One of the best parts about bar stools is that they’re not stand-alone items; they set the tone for the entire space. Consider what you will pair your bar stools with: cushions or throws? Whether sold separately or swappable, both are accessories that add texture, comfort, contrast, and color—bare bones bar stools can be punched up with some cushions or throws. Consider the finish of the legs or frame, too. Do they match other finishes in your space, like your countertops, cabinets, or living room furniture? The choice is up to you.