Your kitchen and home bar can be a hub of entertainment for your guests, or where your family spends most of their day-to-day living. With that in mind, your seating should make both spaces more enjoyable for everyone! Here are some important things to think about as you shop for bar stool chairs.
Bar stool height is the most important measuring factor you will need to consider. Most bar tops are around 42 inches high, so look for bar height bar stools with seat heights of about 30 to 32 inches tall.
Counter height tables are typically between 34 to 46 inches high, so look for a counter stool between 23 and 28 inches tall.
Understanding bar stool sizing is important for keeping yourself and your guests comfortable. When you're seated at a bar stool, your elbows should rest comfortably on the kitchen counter at a 90-degree angle and your knees should also be at a 90-degree angle with your feet on the footrests. Make sure your bar stools' seats are about 10 to 12 inches below the underside of the kitchen counter so your legs don’t feel squeezed.
Also plan for each stool to occupy about 28 to 30 inches along the counter's perimeter — that includes the 6 inches you should leave between stools. Bar stools often come in 15-, 17-, or 21-inch widths. If you want wider seats keep in mind that you won't be able to fit as many at the bar. Think about whether this extra width or the ability to fit more stools is your priority.
More: How To Figure Out Bar Stool Height
Whether you're building a new bar or redecorating an old kitchen, there are stools that'll help your vision come to life. Learn more about the different styles available to narrow down your favorite choices.
Whatever style you envision around your bar, kitchen island, or breakfast area, there's a stool to match. Check the height and length of your bar counter, and enjoy the process of browsing for stools that catch your eye and suit your home.