Thanks Randall. Those are nice stools but we are leaning towards something a little more modern. And hubby doesn't like tufted or nail heads :(

And I'm thinking a tulip style table. The table that is there is defective and going back. Plus it's a little too traditional for the space.

Your kitchen finishes and architecture are traditional, so you can go with a simple transitional style, but the wood/black ones look out of place. If you want comfort, find a stool with a back.

The wood stool is a bar height you need a counter height stool. If you are doing a tulip table check DWR stools I have the Onda they work very well and are surprisingly comfortable with just enough back support and they come in both heights

I would start with your kitchen table/chairs, as they should dictate your stool choice. I would be looking for something that has a modern design (like the tulip table idea) but pair with warmer looking chairs - rustic/modern is the look I would be heading towards.

Any stool that strikes you as uncomfortable with a first sit is DEFINITELY the wrong choice. They don't get more comfortable with prolonged sitting. And if they're not comfortable, they won't be used and would hence be a waste.

What's the use case.....kid snacks, adults lounging with wine, primarily kitchen helpers, or unknown at this time? Kids will tolerate more discomfort as they won't be sitting long. Cleanability may also be a factor.....you know your family better than we do! Swivel helps a lot for getting in and out. Very slippery stools may be hard to sit on or adjust position....whereas stools with high friction surfaces prevent you sliding off, but might be harder to get in and out of. Also factor in how easily the feet scoot on your specific flooring....again, you want a mid point between "glued" and "ice skating".

An often-overlooked factor for comfort is the foot rail. My kitchen stools have a narrow metal rail that can't really be used with bare feet. A wider, rounded, wooden rail would be the ultimate in barefoot friendliness.

And definitely get counter height stools, as noted by Patricia: http://www.hayneedle.com/bar-stool-buying-guide.cfm

In my view, the comfort and function factors are so constraining that once you find a stool that meets them with an A+, you should try hard to like the appearance no matter what it is.

Perhaps sharing some of our design projects, which have stool options in them, will aid you in your search.

Chicago South Loop Kitchen Remodeling · More Info

Gold Coast Chicago Kitchen Design & Remodel · More Info

Stunning Contemporary Kitchen with Scavolini Cabinets · More Info