Choosing the right bar stool for your kitchen can transform your space, adding both functionality and style. Whether you're looking to create a casual breakfast nook or a sophisticated dining area, the perfect bar stool can make all the difference.
We share some key factors to consider when selecting bar stools for your kitchen islands and breakfast bars.
Pictured: Shaker Bar Stools, Beech
How Tall Should Bar Stools Be for a Kitchen Island?
The height of your bar stools is crucial for comfort and practicality. The ideal stool height for a breakfast bar will depend on the height of the bar itself, but a good rule of thumb is to leave 20–25 cm between the top of the stool seat and the bottom of the bar.
For standard kitchen islands and breakfast bars, which are typically about 90-92cm high, you should opt for counter-height stools that are 70cm from the floor to the seat. This height allows for a comfortable seating arrangement, providing adequate legroom while ensuring that the counter is at a convenient level for dining or working.
Measure the height from the floor to the underside of your island or bar to ensure you get stools that provide about 20–25 cm of space between the seat and the countertop, offering optimal comfort.
Our handcrafted wooden bar stools are made with a height of 70cm as standard, so they should fit under a typical kitchen island, counter or breakfast bar.
Pictured: Windsor Bar Stools in a kitchen designed by Vaughan Designs and Herringbone House
How Many Stools for a Kitchen Island?
Determining the number of bar stools for your kitchen island depends on the length of the island and the space you want between each stool for comfortable seating.
A general rule of thumb is to allocate 60cm of space per stool. Most of our bar stools are around 40cm wide, so this provides an additional 20cm gap between each stool. This allows ample room for people to sit and move without feeling cramped. For example, if your kitchen island is 180cm long, you can comfortably fit three bar stools.
If you prefer more space or have larger stools, consider increasing the spacing to 70cm per stool. It’s also important to account for any additional features like drawers or cabinets on the sides of the island that might reduce the available seating area.
Pictured: Scandinavian Mandal Bar Stool, Beech
Should Bar Stools Match the Kitchen Table Chairs?
Matching your bar stools to your kitchen table chairs can create a cohesive and harmonious look, but it’s not a strict rule.
If your kitchen and dining areas are in close proximity, having matching or complementary designs and wood shades can tie the spaces together beautifully. However, it’s also perfectly acceptable to mix and match styles for a more eclectic and personalised aesthetic.
Consider the overall design theme of your kitchen. For instance, if you have a modern kitchen, you might choose sleek, minimalist bar stools that complement the contemporary lines of your dining chairs. Alternatively, in a rustic or farmhouse-style kitchen, a mix of wooden stools and chairs can add charm and character. Ultimately, the goal is to create a balanced look that reflects your personal taste while ensuring comfort and functionality.
Pictured: Scandinavian Mandal Bar Stool, Oak
Bar Stools With Backs vs Backless Bar Stools
When choosing between backless and backrest stools, it's essential to consider both aesthetics and functionality.
A standard stool without a back offers a sleek and minimalist look, making them a great choice for modern or small kitchens where saving space is crucial. They can easily be tucked under the counter when not in use, maintaining a clean and uncluttered appearance.
However, backless stools may not provide the same level of comfort for extended seating periods, as they lack support. On the other hand, bar stools with backs provide additional support and are generally more comfortable for longer sitting durations, making them ideal for kitchens where the seating area doubles as a place for socialising.
While backrest stools can take up more space and may not tuck under the counter as neatly as backless ones, they often come in a variety of styles that can complement various kitchen designs. Ultimately, the choice between backless and backrest stools should align with your kitchen's layout, your comfort preferences, and the overall design aesthetic you wish to achieve.
Once you have a good idea of what you are looking for from a kitchen stool, it’s time to get shopping! Take a look at our collection of bar stools, all handcrafted in the UK from sustainable woods. Our range of wooden bar stools includes styles to suit any kitchen - from Scandinavian to Rustic - with both classic Shaker stools and sleek & stylish stools with backs.