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image of black kitchen bar stools

The Ultimate Bar Stool Buying Guide

It’s no surprise that we love a beautiful bar stool.

For example, the Midas Bar Stool has become an icon within our collection! Perfect for introducing a casual dining spot to your home, kitchen stools create a social environment. Firstly, they’re great for catching up on everyone’s day whilst cooking. In addition, they offer a fabulous opportunity to create zones in open-plan kitchen/dining spaces.

Black faux leather bar stools styled beneath a white and gold kitchen island.

As a result, finding the perfect bar stool is an important task. To help you in your search, we have put together 5 top tips to consider while shopping. From comfort considerations to the all-important subject of style, our guide covers everything you need to find the bar stool design of your dreams...

1. Measure your kitchen island or breakfast bar.

Above all, it’s important to measure your space. There is nothing worse than finally choosing the perfect bar stool only to find it doesn't fit comfortably in the spot you had planned. So, make sure you take measurements. For smaller spaces opt for backless bar stools that you can stack out of the way when not in use. On the other hand, in larger kitchens, look for a tall design with a bold backrest that makes a statement. Moreover, don’t forget to check the depth measurement to make sure the stool can be neatly tucked under your counter.

Pink coral bar stools with gold metallic legs

2. Bar stool comfort factor.

Next, it’s time to think about comfort. Therefore, we recommend asking yourself this key question... Is this where you plan to spend lots of time and eat your main meals? If so, then it is important to find a bar stool with back support for ultimate comfort. Furthermore, you might want to consider softer materials such as velvet. However, if a backless stool is the best fit for your space, there are a few simple solutions. One of our favourites is to style your chosen design with sheepskin rugs for an instant improvement in the comfort factor.

white roll back bar stools in a dark room

3. Style Match.

It's important to match the look and feel of your bar stool to your style of kitchen. Therefore, try to pick tones and finishes that match key elements in your decor. For example, rattan bar stools look beautiful against dark kitchen cabinets and rich materials such as brass. Alternatively, natural wood stools are ideal for perfecting a chic, industrial scheme.

4. Bar Stool Materials.

Material is also a really important consideration in your search. Most importantly, don’t forget to consider your lifestyle and how often your bar stools will be used on a daily basis. Faux Leather and metal bar stools are really easy to wipe down. As a result, these materials are ideal for busy, family kitchens. On the other hand, wooden breakfast bar stools are very durable and therefore great if your kitchen is a high-traffic area. However, if style is at the top of your checklist, then you cannot go wrong with velvet. Introducing instant luxury to any kitchen space, velvet stools are available in a number of gorgeous colours to suit every scheme imaginable.
Mustard Bar stools under a gold kitchen island

5. Protect Your Floor

Finally, a practical tip that you will thank us for sharing. Once your dream design has been delivered, we recommend adding protectors to the feet or base of your bar stools to avoid damage to your floors. Simply head to your local hardware store or search for feet protectors online to save yourself from the heartache of a scratched floor.

Black chez bar stools tucked underneath a kitchen island

For more inspiration on styling bar stools at home, check out the real homes shared on our Instagram!

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