Counter Stools: Find the Right Height
Counter stools are like shoes: they complete the look. Stylish and practical, they ground a space with pleasing uniformity. Much more cost-effective than renovating, freshen up your space by swapping out your counter stools. Read on for our recommendations on what height, support, and styles to consider.
Stool Height
Counter stools typically come in one of two sizes: bar height or counter height. There is also table height, but it is less common. These measurements refer to the height of the seat. Bar height means the seat can be anywhere from two inches to five-and-a-half inches higher than a counter height stool.
The Anco Counter Stool sits perfectly just about anywhere. With its molded plastic seat, it’s wonderfully comfortable wherever you park a spot.
If you’re looking for stools to accompany your kitchen island, order counter height. A bar height stool at a kitchen counter will feel awkward. Your legs will feel cramped and you’ll have to hunch over to eat. Typically designed to be between 25.5” and 28”, the counter height stool’s shorter profile tucks in nicely to the 36” standard counter height.
Support System
Everyday Use
Like shoes, your selection should be a balance of style and practicality. Support is a key consideration. If your counter is where you eat every day, something with a high back will offer the most support.
With its molded, monochromatic feel, the Svelti Counter Stool is a stylishly supportive design. The counter stool version of our iconic Svelti Chair, this mid-century modern option has a high back to keep you comfortable through even a marathon meal. Go classic with black or add a pop of color by choosing from three additional hues. It’s curved plastic seat is easy to clean, making it ideal for kids.
Another easy-to-wipe, molded seat option is the popular Anco Counter Stool. Versatile and sleek, this industrial-style design looks good anywhere, and will feel as at home in your kitchen as on your patio.
It would be easy to compare the Zina Counter Stool to a strappy sandal for its obvious elegance. But its powder coated steel frame and polypropylene rope design offer so much more support. As comfortable as it is stunning, the minimalist aesthetic and durable material make it ideal for spaces both inside and out.
Casual Entertaining
Back support isn’t the top priority when selecting shoes for a party. The same can be said for your kitchen seating when you eat most meals in the dining room. Style plays a more active role in your counter stool decision process, which is particularly helpful if you want a more minimalist feel.
The Esse is a classic counter stool with its simple aesthetic and steadfast construction. Made of solid wood, the design is beautifully captured in the details from the polished curves and spindled legs to the craftsmanship of the joinery. Its Scandinavian style and light oak stain bring a sense of calm to any space.
Like a well-loved loafer, the Sede Leather Counter Stool will envelop you in stylish comfort. Available in pigmented black and tan upholstery, the back curves gently and is supported by solid walnut legs.
Or rest easy on the saddle-like, soft leather seat of the Para. The chic, industrial black powder-coated metal base contains double-sided footrests for added versatility and ease.
Come Together
Why does every party inevitably convene in the kitchen? Is it the proximity to food? The fact that the hosts are usually prepping dinner and the guests want to keep them company? Maybe it’s how design has modernized the kitchen to become more of a central hub in your home? Whatever the reason, there’s no party like a kitchen party. So gather round and pull up a stool. Maybe even kick off your shoes.