Kitchen bar stools are a great way to add extra seating and style to your kitchen. With so many options to choose from, it can be tricky to find the perfect bar stools to complement your kitchen decor. Whether you have a modern, traditional, or farmhouse style kitchen, there are hot bar stool designs that will instantly elevate your space.
From sleek leather to cozy padded seats, adjustable heights to space-saving counter stools, we’ve rounded up 12 great bar stool picks for every kitchen style. Read on for tips on choosing the right size, height, and material to suit your needs. Discover the hottest bar stool looks that will pull your kitchen together in chic style.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Kitchen Bar Stools
Before shopping for bar stools, take into account your kitchen’s size, layout, and style. Here are some key factors to guide your search:
Height
The ideal bar stool height is 10-12 inches less than your counter height. This leaves enough room for your legs and feet while sitting. Standard kitchen counter height is 36 inches, making a 24-26 inch bar stool height comfortable. Make sure to measure the height of your counters first before choosing stool height.
Size
Consider the size of your kitchen and bar area to determine how much space you have for bar stools. Standard kitchen islands are 42-48 inches wide. Allow for at least 24-30 inches of space per stool for ample seating room. Swivel stools also need more space than standard.
Style
Choose bar stools that match your kitchen’s existing style and color palette. Sleek metallic stools pair well with modern designs, while wooden stools complement farmhouse or rustic rooms. Make sure the stools fit in aesthetically to pull your space together.
Comfort
Look for well-padded seats and supportive backs for maximum comfort. Adjustable seats that swivel also add comfort and flexibility. Test stools in person when possible to ensure comfort.
Materials
Consider durable, easy-to-clean materials like metal, wood, leather, or vinyl. Avoid fabrics if your stools will get heavy use. Also make sure bar stools have non-slip bottoms for safety.
Budget
Bar stools come in a wide range of prices. Set a budget beforehand and stick with stools that offer the style, comfort and quality you need within your price parameters.
With the right bar stools, your kitchen can go from drab to fab. Keep these tips in mind as you shop for the perfect seats!
Modern and Contemporary Kitchen Bar Stools
Modern kitchens demand sleek, streamlined bar stools to complement their minimalist style. Contemporary stools in glossy metallics, stained wood, or neutral upholstery create a polished look. Here are 5 hot contemporary bar stool styles for your modern kitchen:
1. Tufted Leather and Metal Bar Stools
Buttery soft leather and brushed metal create an inviting contemporary vibe. Tufted leather adds comfort while the metallic base makes a gleaming style statement. Try black, brown or cream leather to match modern decor. These stools work well in open kitchens or home bars.
2. Acrylic and Chrome Bar Stools
Lucite acrylic stools with chrome legs have an ultramodern look. The transparent acrylic appears to float above chrome rods for a weightless effect. Acrylic naturally refracts light for added dimension. Use clear or colored acrylic to match your style. Avoid acrylic if you prefer a warmer ambiance.
3. Mid Century Modern Wood and Metal Bar Stools
For a retro modern flair, choose wood and metal stools with slim tapered legs inspired by Mid Century style. Walnut or teak wood paired with black, brass or copper metal evokes Mad Men flair. Angled legs and low backs keep these stools from looking dated. Build a unified look by matching existing mid century kitchen furniture.
4.Modern Square Seat Bar Stools
Square seats with gently rounded corners add modern edge. Match with sleek metal legs in stainless steel, chrome, or black finish. Upholster square seats in neutral leather or linen for soft contrast. Floating square seats cantilevered above the base emphasize crisp, modular style. Crisp cushioning keeps these stools comfy.
5. Adjustable Height Metal Swivel Stools
For contemporary convenience choose metal counter height stools on a swivel base. Adjust them to suit kids, adults, or tasks like food prep. Streamlined metallics like brushed nickel or oil-rubbed bronze fit modern rooms, as do chrome or glossy black. Swivel capability makes these stools user-friendly.
The array of contemporary stools available means you can easily match your existing decor. Keep sight lines clear with airy metal designs, or create contrast with boldly shaped or colorful seats. Modern kitchens deserve stylish stools to complete their minimalist chic edge.
Farmhouse & Rustic Kitchen Bar Stools
The farmhouse style trend shows no signs of going out fashion. Natural materials like wood make cozy, casual additions to any rustic kitchen. Check out these 5 rustic bar stool designs ideal for farmhouse style:
1. Saddle Seat Bar Stools
Give your kitchen a Western feel with saddle seat bar stools. The curved saddle seat and low back mimic the shape of equestrian saddles. Available in smooth leather or suede with nailheads trim, these stools are both stylish and comfortable. Choose chestnut, black or cream colors to complement your farmhouse palette.
2. Solid Wood Swivel Stools with Backs
Swivel capability and supportive wood backs make these solid oak stools as practical as they are handsome. The gently contoured seats, curved legs, and cross brace supports offer comfort and stability. Available in light, medium or dark oak with optional seat padding for a bit of plushness. The wood grain visible in the seats adds organic texture.
3. Woven Seat Counter Stools
Seats handwoven from natural rattan, wicker or bamboo add breezy farmhouse charm. Woven around a steel frame, these durable and resilient seats come in rectangular, round or saddle shapes. Finish with wooden legs and optional backrest. Woven texture and natural hues blend beautifully with rustic decor.
4. Reclaimed Barn Wood Bar Stools
Salvaged barn wood offers a slice of authentic farmhouse style. Each piece of reclaimed pine or oak has uniquely distressed coloring and markings. Match the wood grain in your kitchen cabinets for a cohesive look. A clear sealant is applied to the hand sanded seats to allow the wood’s natural character to shine through while protecting it from spills and wear.
5. Weathered Finish X Base Bar Stools
An X shaped base provides a solid foundation for these vintage inspired counter stools. A painted weathered finish accents the vintage vibe. Choose distressed cream, light blue, or robin’s egg for beach cottage appeal. Spring cushion seats keep these chairs comfy for hours of lingering over coffee, meals or conversation.
With reclaimed wood, visible joinery, and natural textures, rustic bar stools infuse cozy farmhouse style that ages beautifully. Effortlessly blend these seats into your country kitchen decor.
Traditional Style Kitchen Bar Stools
In traditional kitchens with timeless style , the furniture should feel substantial and well-crafted. Traditional bar stools often feature carved wooden frames, padded upholstered seats, nailhead trim and turned legs. Here are 5 classically elegant bar stool styles that will bring timeless sophistication to your traditional kitchen:
1. Wingback Bar Stools
Make a luxurious style statement with wingback bar stools. The high backs, rolled arms and deep seats resemble traditional arm chair design. Upholster in rich leather or patterned fabrics like houndstooth or damask. Dark hardwood frames with turned legs and nailhead trim complete the elegant effect. Pull one up to your kitchen island for a regal yet inviting look.
2. Tufted Rectangle Back Bar Stools
Deep diamond tufting and plush padding lend these upholstered stools an refined allure. The high rectangular backs offer lumbar support. Choose neutral linens or tone on tone patterns to match your elegant color scheme. Avoid overly busy prints. The look is tailored yet plush. Sturdy hardwood legs with curved supports add stability .
3.Crown Back Counter Stools with Nailheads
An arched crown shaped backrest gives these counter stools distinctive charm. The shapely crown is edged in brass nailhead trim for a tailored finish. Upholster the padded seats in leather or linen for an inviting look. Carved cabriole style legs in dark cherry or walnut complete the traditional design. Use these stools as kitchen island seating or at a sitting room bar.
4.Button Tufted Round Back Barstools
For a touch of vintage charm, choose round back stools accented with fabric covered buttons. The gently curved back, deep seat and low armrests create cozy seating. Use nailhead trim to outline the base and seat back. Upholster in tweed, herringbone, or floral fabrics to bring out the vintage character. Finished leather adds interest while withstanding spills and wear.
5.Cross Back Counter Height Stools
Crisscross supports on the backrest of these stools mimic cottage style furniture. The curved and contoured seats with generous padding provide lasting comfort. Use also as additional dining seating. Choose dark finishes like espresso or mahogany with neutral upholstery to enhance the traditional design. Add nailhead trim along the base for an elegant touch.
From tufted buttons to claw foot legs, traditional kitchen stools offer refined elegance. Well-designed with quality craftsmanship, they become cherished furniture pieces that gracefully withstand decades of use.
Unique Kitchen Bar Stools That Stand Out
Tired of the same old stools? Why not have a little fun with your kitchen seating. From pops of color to quirky shapes and designs, unique bar stools make an instant style statement. They are perfect for adding an unexpected twist to your kitchen decor. Take a look at these 5 unforgettable stool styles:
1. Vintage Diner Style Retro Bar Stools
Pull up a seat at the counter on these nostalgic stools straight from a 1950s diner. The chrome base includes a handy footrest, while the vinyl or colorful patterned upholstery adds retro flair. Choose a vibrant color like cherry red, aqua or lemon yellow to spice up a neutral kitchen. The exaggerated back keeps these stools from looking dated.
2. Boldly Patterned Eclectic Bar Stools
Bring playful vibrancy to your kitchen with vividly patterned bar stools. Tribal inspired ikat patterns, Moroccan trellis designs or cheerful florals liven up any counter seating. Set off the busyness of the pattern with solid colored walls. Add global style by mixing eclectic patterns on adjacent stools. Built to withstand daily use and spills, easy to wipe-clean vinyl or polyester coverings work best.
3. Unique Recycled Metal Bar Stools
Industrial edge meets artistic creativity in these one-of-a-kind stools handcrafted from salvaged materials. Old tractor seats, drums, pipes, and pulleys become functional sculpture. No two are exactly alike. The raw, unfinished look showcases the original patina and markings on the repurposed metal pieces. These sturdy stools bring gritty urban style your rustic or industrial kitchen.
4.Outdoor Wicker Basket Seat Bar Stools
Featuring tightly woven wicker nesting into a rounded seat, these stools bring breezy texture indoors or out. The airy basket weave allows rainwater to drain through and is easy to hose off. Lightweight sets ideal for balconies, patios and covered porches. Dark walnut stained wood frames coordinate beautifully with rattan and other natural fibers.
5. Contemporary Cut Out Back Bar Stools
Geometric style defines these contemporary stools featuring laser cut metalwork on the backrest. The intricate patterning allows light and air to filter through. The crisply linear design contrasts creatively against the gently rounded seat. Use brushed steel or blackened bronze finishes to match modern kitchen decor. The flowing cut outs add artistic allure.
Unique bar stools show off your playful sense of style. Keep the rest of your kitchen decor minimal to let these creatively designed stools take center stage. Guests will flock to take a seat!
Space Saving Bar Stools for Small Kitchens
If your kitchen is cramped, that doesn’t mean you have to forfeit bar seating. Cleverly designed small kitchen bar stools maximize your layout. Here are 4 space saving stool styles perfect for tiny kitchens:
1.Foldable Step Stools
When not in use, these slim seats fold down completely flat against your cabinets. Just lift up to access handy seating for kids. Choose plastic, wooden or metal varieties with nonslip steps. Great for creating an instant kids’ eating area or serving snacks at parties. Durable and easy to clean.
2.Slim Profile Metal Swivel Stools
Metal stools with a streamlined silhouette take up less space. Features like a swivel seat, foot rest, and adjustable height add comfort without bulk. Crisp contemporary profiles in gleaming chrome or brightly colored powder coated steel bring cheer to small kitchens. Easy to tuck in when not in use.
3.Backless Counter Height Stools
Backless stools positioned snugly against your counter maximize precious space. The clean lined design works well in contemporary and modern rooms, as well as at bustling eat-in counters. Comfortable foam seat padding allows lingering over meals. Just avoid slick seat materials that could lead to slipping.
4.Compact Corner Banquette Style Seating
Custom built banquettes are ideal for filling unused corners and alcoves. Add plush bench cushioning for comfort. The integral table makes an ideal homework spot or laptop station. You can customize banquette dimensions to fit your exact space. Compared to bulky chairs, banquettes use geometry to maximize seating capacity.
Don’t let kitchen size limit your seating options. Be creative about using corners, going backless, and look at foldable or stowable designs. With the right small space stools, you can carve out a comfy casual dining spot.
Outdoor Kitchen Bar Stools
Outdoor kitchens and patios deserve well-made bar stools that can withstand sun, rain, snow and temperature extremes. Here are 4 outdoor stool styles made to last:
1. Teak Wood Bar Stools
Teak has natural oils that make it impervious to moisture and cracking. Over time it takes on an elegant silvery patina. Teak stools with woven lattice seats bring texture against the smooth wood grain. Add plush outdoor rated seat cushions for all weather comfort. Teak stools work beautifully in covered and uncovered outdoor kitchens.
2. Cast Aluminum Patio Bar Stools
Aluminum takes powder coating colors well for a pop of brightness on your patio. But unlike wrought iron, cast aluminum won’t rust, tarnish or corrode. Crafted into scrolled shapes and designs, cast aluminum stools make an intricately decorative accent. The aluminum cools the seat during hot summers and won’t crack in winter.
3. All-Weather Wicker Bar Stools
For the look of natural wicker with ultimate weather resistance, choose HDPE or resin wicker. Synthetic fibers like HDPE maintain the tight weave and organic texture of natural wicker while tolerating sun, soil and moisture. Clean by hosing off. Use stools with rustproof aluminum or galvanized steel frames for stability.
4. Acacia Wood Outdoor Barstools
Acacia lumber is densely grained to endure outdoor elements. The natural knots, whorls and golden color add rustic warmth to any patio. Left unfinished, acacia ages to a silvery gray similar to teak. Seat these substantial, solidly constructed stools around an outdoor kitchen island. Remember to bring cushions in after use to extend their life.
Patio bar stools get put through tough conditions. Choose styles with durable, weather resistant materials designed to provide lasting performance. With routine maintenance, quality outdoor stools provide enjoyment for many seasons.
Choosing the Perfect Bar Stool Height
Bar stool comfort starts with getting the right height. Standard kitchen counters are 36 inches tall. For bar seating, you generally want to leave a 10 to 12 inch clearance between the counter and bar stool seat. This leaves ample room for knees, thighs and feet while sitting.
Here are some tips on getting the ideal bar stool height for your space:
- For standard 36 inch counters, look for bar stools 24-26 inches in height. This allows a 10-12 inch clearance.
- If your kitchen counters are taller or shorter than 36 inches, measure your exact counter height first. Then subtract 10-12 inches to calculate ideal stool height.
- Adjustable height stools let you customize the height. Great for accommodating kids and adults.
- Test bar stool height in person. Sit with your feet resting flat and measure the distance from the seat to the counter to ensure adequate room.
- Swivel seats can increase legroom and comfort if space is tight.
- Add a footrest to stools that leave your feet dangling to provide support.
Don’t sacrifice comfort or accessibility with poorly matched stool height. Measure carefully and find adjustable options to get the right stool height for your space and body. Properly elevated seating promotes relaxation and ease over the counter.
Choosing Comfortable, Stylish Kitchen Bar Stools
At last, you can enjoy the beauty and convenience of kitchen bar seating. Discover endless design possibilities for comfortable, on-trend bar stools to suit your lifestyle. Before you shop, determine your ideal height, space requirements, color scheme and budget. Consider materials that offer both style and easy-care durability. From sleek leathers to cozy wicker, adapt stools to your kitchen’s existing decor. Or make a fun style statement with retro, eclectic and artistic designs. Don’t overlook smart space-saving options that maximize seating in small kitchens. Complete outdoor kitchens and patios
