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How to Pick the Perfect Bar Stool
Comfort, height, style and price: 15 great bar stools and how to use them
I've been specifying a lot of bar stools for projects lately, and I feel like I'm running out of options! There are so many challenges in finding the right one for the right clients. For some people, comfort is king; for others, it's all about looks. Some people need to swivel while others want to stay stationary. There's also the issue of depth; I've had the unfortunate experience of unearthing the perfect barstool, only to find out the overhang at the bar is atypically shallow, and there won't be enough room. And no matter what the style is, staying mindful of scale is always important, not just with regard to the space they sit in, but also in context with other furnishings.
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| This is a beautifully appointed kitchen. The scale is just right, and while the wood seats are similar in coloration to the brown cabinets and light fixture, the movement in the wood and the blackened steel bases give them distinction, making them stand apart. |
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One of the most universal designs, this style of bar stool manages to be both light and industrial with a healthy dose of softness in the wood seat. This one falls on the lower end of the vast pricing spectrum, and I'll tell you, it's hard to find barstools that are both affordable AND handsome.
by Suite New York
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This barstool, though similar to the one above, has a little hint of a back, and can be found in the higher price range. If you treat the counter as more of a landing pad for quick snacks and chatting while cooking, having a full back isn't quite as important. A low back is nice, though.
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Cherner chairs and stools will never go out of style.
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Of course, there's always the option to keep them ultra-fresh by dipping them in paint, white or any other color, for that matter!
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| If you want your barstools to be conversation-starters up close, but kind of disappear from a distance, acrylic is the way to go. |
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by Amoroso Design
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| If space is limited, or you're particularly into a non-cluttered look, consider simple, unembellished stools that stow under the bar top. |
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Among a lot of strong, heavy woods, metal bar stools breathe a little fresh air into spaces by introducing a contrasting material and texture.
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| I love the French industrial look, as seen here. |
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Not ready to embrace the industrial look fully? Try Phillippe Starck's riff on the Emeco chair with a pinch of high-polish tradition.
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Another French-y industrial option that says "drawing stool" more than "bar stool." I love the play of materials and elements in this kitchen/wine room. The industrial chairs are a whimsical addition, helping the space feel anything but typical.
| The back-less version. |
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Some people spend a lot of time on their barstools, making it important to be comfortable and supported with a substantial back. This is a beautiful option.
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If you want a bag, but prefer to retain a little openness, consider a bar stool with an open splat, as seen in this riff on a Wegner classic (for a song!) which takes up minimal visual space.
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| We've looked at a lot of wood, metal and natural options, but don't be afraid to add a little pizzazz to your kitchen or bar area by adding color. |
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The open back makes this option light, but the upholstery will make you (and your guests) want to stick around for a while. Don't be afraid of a little color.
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I particularly like modern woven bar stools. With a higher back, the open weave retains an airy feeling and doesn't obstruct light or views. Usona's high-end option can't be beat ...
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... Unless your budget falls more in the CB2 range, in which case, you're in luck. This is a very similar option that's easily available to those not in "the trade."
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Here's an option that combines solid wood with a woven element, resulting in a stool that's both sturdy and elegant.
by maison-midi.com
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French bistro bar stools are an easy way to add texture and pattern while retaining a traditional flair while providing support. There are great options available across the pricing spectrum.
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This chic little thing combines color and patten using the materials.
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This design has been discontinued, but the idea lives on.
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A little cow hide never hurt anyone. Faux or real: pick your poison!
by Stonewood, LLC
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Sturdy backs often come in the form of heavier bar stools, which work beautifully in this kitchen.
We haven't even touched on height options! There's bar height, whereby the seat is generally 29"-31" high, while counter height puts seats between 24" and 26". Basically, counter-height stools are best for bars the same height as your kitchen counters (35"-37"). If your bar area is taller, say 41"-43", you need a bar stool. Whew!
This image illustrates the difference in height; the barstool sits beneath a higher counter, while the portion of the counter used for prepping and cleaning is a bit lower.
This image illustrates the difference in height; the barstool sits beneath a higher counter, while the portion of the counter used for prepping and cleaning is a bit lower.
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| Something else to consider while choosing the right bar or counter stools is what other pieces of furniture with legs is within eye-shot. Chairs, tables, stools, sofas — it's important to not let all those legs overwhelm your space. Next: More guides to counter seating See more bar stools |
Ideabook published on Oct. 1, 2011.
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