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Like a great pair of shoes, the perfect bar stool can transform your space with style and functionality. 

Shopping can be overwhelming when you’re not sure what to look for which is why you have come to the right place! With some key information below and some of my favourite stools referenced, you should be ready to shop till you drop!

Shopping can be overwhelming when you’re not sure what to look for which is why you have come to the right place! With some key information below and some of my favourite stools referenced, you should be ready to shop till you drop!

Stool Heights

The first step starts at home by measuring the height of your counter or table to determine the required bar stool height. Your measurement will fall in between 4 popular categories. I would highly recommend bringing a tape measure with you to the store.

Short Table Height (16” – 23”): The height that you measured at home we are going to be calling ‘surface height’. The surface height for this stool is between 28”- 30”. This height is ideal for a desk, a vanity, or can be a good alternative to chairs at a table.

Counter Height (24” – 27”): The surface height for this stool is between 35”- 39”. This height is perfect for your kitchen counter (as long as it isn’t two-tiered!)

Bar Height (28” – 33”): The surface height for this stool is between 41”- 43”. A 30” stool is the perfect height for a standard 42” bar or countertop. These are the same size stools you are typically used to seeing in a restaurant or bar.

Extra Tall (33” – 36”): The surface height for this stool is between 44”- 47”. Not as common, you may have bar tables that are high, around a pool table or outdoors for example. In this situation, you’ll want to opt for taller stools.

In addition to the height of the stool, the space between each stool is just as important. Look to have about 26” – 30” of space measured from the center of one stool to the center of the stool next to it. This allows for optimal space for eating & working while avoiding that annoying elbow bumping. In addition, account for having about 9” – 12” of leg space from the top of the stool seat to the bottom of your surface height for the most comfort.

Back Support

A crucial element when it comes to the look and functionality of the stool is back support! While the options are endless, lets look at the 3 most common and some of my favourites in each category!

High Back: One of the most common types of stools, a high back offers maximum support and comfort. The style of the back can take this type of stool from contemporary to uber traditional! For the ultimate comfort in seating, choose a stool with a solid back which is typically upholstered the same material as the seat. When shopping, note that a high back stool will extend out past your countertop. If walkway space is a concern you may want to select a different type of stool.

No Back: The most popular and versatile option. A backless stool is often adjustable and will almost always be equipped with a footrest to aid in comfort. Although it does not offer any back support some pros to this type of stool are the following; easily tucked under its surface, great selection when entertaining is important allowing the person sitting to be turned in any direction. This type of stool can also be seen in various materials such as metal and plastic, check out a few of my favourite contenders below.