Bar Stools

Bar stools have a very wide variety of styles and options, probably more than any other type of chair. Swivel bar stools are used by many people every day. Remember back to your childhood days, sitting at the kitchen countertop or breakfast bar, in pajamas, eating your breakfast, and getting ready for a fun-filled school day. Can you remember the neighborhood ice cream shop, spinning around on that shiny silver bar stool on a hot summer afternoon? And who could forget that classic bright red vinyl cushion seat! Yes, bar stools bring back fond memories. They are a familiar friend in so many settings; this fantastic and fun chair is not always appreciated. A chair that is this comfortable and functional sometimes blends in with the surroundings. Where to use a bar stool Bar stools can be placed in most any room of the home. The kitchen countertop, island, or breakfast bars are popular places for counter bar stools. They can also be spotted in the rec room at the bar, where you spend time with friends and family. Place one outside by the pool, or on your deck or patio next to the barbeque. Bar stools can be found at many of your favorite family restaurants and diners.

Bar stool materials

Bar stools are made of several different materials. Wood, metal, bamboo, rattan, and combinations of materials are often used. Their cushions can be made of soft leather, fun vinyl, or a variety of stain resistant fabrics.

Bar stool styles

Bar stools come in many great styles. They can be backless or have backs for extra support. There are some fantastic options such as contemporary style, or retro models with shiny chrome tube frames. These stools often have swiveling, cushy vinyl-covered seats in vibrant and fun colors. Depending on the style and what you prefer, bar stools can be mounted to the floor for extra stability, or some are lightweight enough to move from place to place. They can coordinate the surrounding furniture, or contrast for a fun and unique look. Many styles of bar stools have places to put your feet - the rungs on styles with multiple legs, or mounted footrests on the single support leg of the floor mounted styles. Bar stools come in different heights. Average height bar stools are 24", 26" and 30," but they also come in extra tall 34" and 36" heights.

Choosing the right height

After deciding where you will be using the bar stool, make sure you measure the countertop or surface where you will be using the stool. Leave enough clearance space in between for leg comfort. It is good to note that standard kitchen and dining room chairs are usually only 18" to 19"; but most kitchen tables are only 28" to 30" high. The average kitchen counter is 36" to 39" which will need a 24" to 26" bar stool. Taller bar stools are required for 40" to 43" counters; you'll need one that is 30". Lastly, for extra tall counters and surfaces, 46" to 50", you will want the extra tall 34" or 36" bar stool. Keep in mind you'll want 9" to 12" between the top of the bar stool's seat and the surface of the countertop.

Bar stools are functional and fun seating options that have been used in many homes and business for years. They bring back memories of childhood days. You can expect to continue to see the bar stool used for many more years to come.