How to choose the right bar & counter stool

13 Jan.,2025

 

How to choose the right bar & counter stool

Whether you&#;re looking to perch peacefully in a brekky nook or live large with an at-home bar, bar stools offer you endless casual eating, drinking and general sitting opportunities. But before you jump right into setting up your flexible seating space, there are a few things you need to know about how to choose the right bar and counter stool. Read on for our complete bar stool buying guide.

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How to choose the right bar stool

It&#;s not rocket science, but it definitely poses its challenges! When picking out bar stools, you&#;ll need to take into account a few different measurements and select a style you&#;re into. We&#;ve put together a bar stool buying guide to make it easy to choose the right stool for your home.

1. Measure your counter height

When it comes to bar stools, the colour, style and feature choices are endless. The only real consideration you&#;ll have to factor in is the height of your counter or bar space. In Australia, residential kitchen counters and commercial bars have standardised measurements, which are:

. 90cm for the kitchen bench
. 105cm for a commercial bar

That being said, anything old or DIY&#;d may have different measurements, so it&#;s best to grab the measuring tape just in case. Tall tables, kitchen islands and dining tables also all have varying heights. 

Take height by measuring from the floor to the underside of the counter or bench. The height of your kitchen counter, for example, will determine how tall your counter height bar stools should be. 

2. Determine the ideal bar stool height

Once you&#;ve figured out how high your counter or bar is, you&#;re in the best position to choose a height for your bar stool. How high a bar stool should be will come down to counter height, the surface&#;s intended purpose, and personal preference.

As a general guide, most people prefer between 20 and 30cm clearance between the top of a seating surface and the underside of a table, bench or counter. Remember that counter height is measured to the base of the surface, while bar stool height usually refers to the distance between the ground and the top of the seat. So, if your kitchen counter is 85cm tall, look for a bar stool that&#;s around 60cm high. This should enable you to comfortably rest your elbows on your kitchen or dining surface, allowing you to eat, drink or work with ease. 

When working outside of these guidelines, keep in mind that you may lose some functionality of your counter, bar or bench if your stool is either too low or too high. 

3. Consider bar stool size

From large, cushioned and backed bar stools to sleek and minimalist designs, there are bar stools in a whole range of sizes to suit any space. Some may prefer a larger bar stool with more sitting room for comfort, while others may opt for a few narrow stools for a more minimalist aesthetic. Your decision will come down to personal preference. 

You&#;ll also need to consider the size of your seating area before settling on bar stools. Keep in mind that chairs will ideally have 60cm of space between them to allow each person to move comfortably. In a 2m wide area, you may be able to fit three smaller sized stools, but only two larger seats.

4. Pick your bar stool colour, comfort and other features

With height and size covered off, all there&#;s left to do is to get shopping! Select the material, style, shape and colour of your stools and place them by the kitchen counter, bar, island or table. Here&#;s a quick guide for all your styling options.

Bar stool materials

Whether it&#;s polished stainless steel or decorative rattan, your options for bar stool materials are plenty. Match the style of the rest of your furniture or change it up by choosing bar stools in a different material. Here are some common bar stool materials:

. Timber
. Metal
. Rattan or wicker
. Fabric
. Leather
. Plastic or polyresin

Bar stool decor style

Dreaming of a casual Scandi dining space? Or is mid-century style more up your alley? Spruce up your bar or kitchen counter space with bar stools in your choice of decor style. Here are just a few styles to get you inspired:

. Art deco
. Contemporary
. Mid-century modern
. Boho
. Coastal
. Farmhouse
. Hamptons
. Industrial
. Retro
. Scandinavian

Bar stool shapes

Referring to the shape of the seat, bar stools come in a small variety of shapes to suit any preference and style. We&#;ve listed some common shapes for bar stools:

. Round
. Square
. Rectangular
. Abstract

Other bar stool features

From plush, tall backrests to bar stools with gas lifts, there are many bar and counter stool features to factor into your buying decision. Here are a few questions to ask throughout the buying process:

. Do I want a backrest?
. What colour do I prefer?
. With arms or armless?
. Does it need to be stackable?
. Is adjustable height/gas lift important to me?
. Do I need it to swivel?

If you&#;re buying bar stools for the home, the decision to include or exclude these features will come down to personal preference, but it&#;s a little more tricky in a commercial setting. The ability to adjust the height of the stool may be important in a restaurant or bar, where patrons may have vastly different heights. If you&#;ll be using it in a business environment, make sure your stool is commercial grade and designed to stand regular use. 

Ultimate Guide to Types of Countertops: Pros & Cons

Popular Countertop Materials

#1 Granite Countertops

Granite is a natural stone prized for its durability, heat and scratch resistance, and wide variety of unique colors and patterns.

It&#;s a popular choice for adding value to a home, though it comes with a cost range of $2,000&#;$4,500.

Pros and Cons

ProsConsHighly durable and resistant to scratchesRequires regular sealing to maintainExcellent heat resistanceCan be expensiveUnique, natural patterns and colorsHeavy and requires professional installationAdds significant value to a homeSusceptible to cracks if not properly installed

Popular Styles and Colors

Granite countertops are available in a wide range of styles and colors. Common choices include:

  • Black Galaxy: A deep black stone with gold and white speckles.
  • White Ice: A light, bright stone with subtle veins of gray and black.
  • Baltic Brown: A rich brown stone with swirls of black, gold, and tan.
  • Ubatuba: A dark green stone with flecks of gold, white, and turquoise.

Granite&#;s natural variations mean that no two slabs are exactly alike, offering a truly unique countertop surface for your kitchen.

#2 Quartz Countertops

Quartz is an engineered stone that offers exceptional durability and low maintenance, making it a popular choice for busy kitchens.

It&#;s moisture and stain-resistant and does not require sealing, with a cost range of $1,500&#;$8,000.

Pros and Cons

ProsConsMoisture and stain-resistantSusceptible to heat damageNo sealing requiredCan be expensive, especially for high-end optionsAvailable in a wide array of colors and patternsHeavier than some other materials, requiring professional installation

Popular Styles and Colors

Quartz countertops come in a vast range of colors and patterns, from solid colors to those mimicking the look of natural stone like marble or granite.

Popular choices include soft whites, grays, and bold veined patterns that add a luxurious touch to any kitchen design.

#3 Marble Countertops

Marble is a luxurious natural stone that exudes elegance and timeless beauty.

Known for its unique veining and smooth texture, marble is heat-resistant but requires regular maintenance.

The cost for marble countertops typically ranges from $2,000 to $5,000.

Pros and Cons

ProsConsTimeless and elegant appearanceProne to staining and scratchingHeat-resistantRequires regular sealing and maintenanceUnique veining adds characterHigh cost compared to other materials

Popular Styles and Colors

Marble countertops are available in classic shades such as white, gray, and cream, often featuring intricate veining patterns.

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Popular types include Carrara, Calacatta, and Statuario, each offering a distinct look with varying levels of veining and color tones.

#4 Laminate Countertops

Laminate countertops are a budget-friendly and versatile option made from layers of plastic bonded to a particleboard core.

They offer a wide range of colors, patterns, and finishes, often mimicking the appearance of wood, stone, or other high-end materials.

The cost for laminate countertops typically ranges from $800 to $2,000.

Pros and Cons

ProsConsAffordable and widely availableProne to scratches and heat damageEasy to install, great for DIY projectsShorter lifespan compared to other materialsLow maintenance and easy to cleanVisible seams and edges can detract from the appearance

Popular Styles and Colors

Laminate countertops come in an extensive variety of styles and colors, including options that mimic the look of granite, marble, wood, and other natural materials.

From high-gloss to matte finishes, laminate can suit both traditional and modern kitchen designs, making it a flexible choice for homeowners on a budget.

#5 Solid Surface Countertops

Solid surface countertops are a synthetic material designed to mimic the appearance of natural stone.

Made from a blend of acrylic particles and resins, these countertops offer a seamless look and can be custom-formed to fit any kitchen layout.

The cost for solid surface countertops typically ranges from $1,500 to $6,000.

Pros and Cons

ProsConsNon-porous and resistant to stains and bacteriaLess heat resistant than natural stoneEasy to repair&#;scratches can be sanded outCan scratch, requiring careful useSeamless appearance with custom edges and shapesLacks the natural look and feel of true stone

Popular Styles and Colors

Solid surface countertops are available in a wide array of colors and designs, allowing for significant customization.

Homeowners can choose from simple, solid colors to more complex patterns that mimic the look of granite or marble.

The material&#;s versatility extends to its finish options, which can range from high-gloss to matte, and its seamless integration makes it ideal for creating a sleek, modern kitchen design.

#6 Concrete Countertops

Concrete countertops offer a high level of customization and durability, making them a popular choice for modern and industrial kitchen designs.

These countertops can be crafted in virtually any shape, size, or color, providing a unique and personalized look.

Pros and Cons

ProsConsHighly customizable in shape, color, and textureRequires regular maintenance, including sealingScratch and heat resistantProne to cracking if not properly maintained or installedDurable and long-lasting with proper careCan be expensive due to the custom nature

Popular Styles and Colors

  • Natural Gray: A popular choice that complements a variety of kitchen styles, from rustic to contemporary.
  • Tinted Options: Concrete can be colored in various shades to match or contrast with your kitchen design.
  • Textured Finishes: Options include polished for a sleek look, matte for subtle elegance, or rustic and weathered for a more aged appearance.
  • Versatility: The adaptability of concrete allows for a unique and personalized kitchen centerpiece.

#7 Stainless Steel Countertops

Stainless steel countertops are known for their durability and sleek, industrial appearance, making them a popular choice in both commercial and modern residential kitchens.

They offer excellent heat resistance and are easy to clean, though they tend to show fingerprints and can dent over time. Costs can be high, depending on the level of custom fabrication.

Pros and Cons

ProsConsHeat resistant and easy to cleanShows fingerprints easilyExtremely durable and hygienicSusceptible to dents and scratches

Popular Styles and Colors

Stainless steel countertops typically come in polished or brushed finishes, offering either a reflective or a more subdued matte look, which can complement both modern and industrial kitchen designs.

#8 Butcher Block Countertops

Butcher block countertops bring a warm, natural wood element to kitchens, making them an excellent choice for food prep areas.

They are budget-friendly and can be easily sanded and resealed to maintain their appearance. However, they do require regular oiling and are prone to scratches and stains.

Pros and Cons

ProsConsAffordable and easy to maintainRequires regular oilingWarm, natural lookSusceptible to scratches and stainsCan be used as a cutting surfaceNot heat-resistant, can scorch easilyEasy to repair by sandingProne to absorbing odors and bacteria if not sealed properly

Popular Wood Types

Common wood types used for butcher block countertops include maple, oak, walnut, and cherry, each offering unique grain patterns and color tones that can enhance the kitchen&#;s aesthetic.

#9 Quartzite Countertops

Quartzite is a natural stone that closely resembles quartz but offers superior heat resistance.

It is highly durable and is often chosen for its ability to withstand kitchen wear and tear.

However, it requires sealing to maintain its quality and can be on the pricier side, comparable to high-end granite and marble.

Pros and Cons

ProsConsExtremely durableRequires regular sealingHighly heat resistantCan be expensiveBeautiful, natural appearanceLimited color options compared to engineered stones

Popular Styles and Colors

Quartzite countertops are available in classic shades of white and gray, often featuring subtle veining that mimics the look of marble, making them a popular choice for those seeking a sophisticated, natural stone appearance.

#10 Soapstone Countertops

Soapstone is a natural stone renowned for its smooth, velvety texture and antique appearance.

It&#;s a durable material that is non-porous and highly heat resistant, making it ideal for kitchens.

However, it is softer than other stones, which means it can scratch more easily and requires regular oiling to maintain its look. The cost is generally on the higher end, similar to marble.

Pros and Cons

ProsConsHeat resistantSofter and can scratch easilyNon-porous, resistant to stainsRequires regular oilingUnique, antique appearanceLimited color variety

Popular Styles and Colors

Soapstone countertops are typically available in darker shades, including deep gray, greenish-gray, and nearly black, often featuring subtle natural veining that enhances their antique charm.

#11 Ceramic Tile Countertops

Ceramic tile countertops are a durable and affordable option for kitchens, offering a wide range of design possibilities.

These countertops are heat resistant and easy to clean, making them a practical choice.

However, the grout lines between tiles can stain over time, and the tiles themselves are prone to chipping.

The cost is generally budget-friendly, making it an attractive option for many homeowners.

Pros and Cons

ProsConsHeat resistantGrout can stainAffordableTiles can chipWide range of design optionsRequires regular maintenance

Popular Styles and Colors

Ceramic tiles are available in a vast array of styles and colors, including classic white subway tiles, colorful mosaics, and patterned designs that can be customized to match any kitchen decor.

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