Whether you are a homeowner looking to furnish (or refurnish) a dining or bar area, or a business owner with bar seating, choosing the right bar stool can make a massive difference in the comfort and use of the space.
Today we will take a look at how to choose the right stool for your home or commercial space. While we will focus mainly on dining or drinking areas, the same considerations for comfort will also apply to other settings like beauty parlors, labs, music venues, and more.
5 Top Design Choices for Selecting a Comfortable Bar Stool
It is no surprise that an ill-considered place to sit often means that a seating area will go unused. Who would want to socialize, eat, or work in an area they quickly feel uncomfortable?
When choosing a barstool, always consider the following in addition to other comfort considerations:
- Height to Counter: You need room between the top of the stool seat and the bar top’s underside for the legs to fit comfortably. Look for a difference of 9-12 inches in the measured heights.
- Space in Between: Just like all seating, you need space between and behind bar stools for them to be functional and comfortable in the environment. Aim for an average of 8-10 inches between stools and a few feet behind.
Seeing something in person always gives you a better idea of proportions or color. And the opportunity to sit on a piece cannot be understated, especially if you are keen on a comfortable bar area. Try out the options below at a furniture dealer or store to see what is most comfortable for you.
1. Back and Arm Rests
Arms and backrests are way more than a style choice. They significantly impact the accessibility and comfort of the bar and counter seating. Adding one or both elements allows older (and younger) people to get in and out of their seats more easily.
For seating areas where you or your guests will be seated for more extended periods, whether for a nice meal or working from home, backs and arms give more support for more comfortable seating.
The one drawback of styles with arms or backs is they do require more space to either side as you sit down or stand up. But back and arm styles fit in perfectly, both in more formal settings or cozy coffee shops where people congregate for long periods.
2. Padded Seats
Probably the first thing that comes to mind for most people when they start to think about comfortable seating is padded or upholstered stool tops. And it is where you will get some of the most significant impacts on comfort.
The first thing to consider when opting for padded seat tops is the eventual wear on that padding. You need to evaluate the level of use every piece will see. Be sure to check reviews for longevity or ask how replaceable the padding may be in the future. If you can’t happen to find a style of bar stool you like with a padded seat but need that added comfort, you can always employ the use of removable seat cushions.
Every type of upholstery has its pros and cons, but don’t skip on durability and the ability to clean up easily. Leather and vinyl will be easier to clean, but fabric options are more comfortable in hot or humid environments.
3. Seat Size
The size of the seat you opt for here involves several factors, not least of which is the amount of horizontal space you have available at the bar, counter, or table. If you can accommodate a larger seat width, it will generally lead to more comfortable bar seating.
One caveat on seat size to keep in mind aside from width is the depth of the seat. Deeper bar stools will be more comfortable for taller individuals, but you should try to select an option that avoids the edge of the stool hitting most people mid-thigh.
4. The Right Base
When it comes to the base, you’ll see options based around single support or more similar to four-legged chairs. One thing to remember is that bar stools with a chair-like design at the bottom limit legroom and movement under the bar area. So if space is limited or you will be moving stools around, consider slimmer bases that won’t knock into each other, the bar, or you.
For longer-duration sitting, one feature you may want to look for in a base is a footrest of some sort. Being able to elevate the feet when seated for an extended period of time provides a small boost in comfort and can help prevent leg cramps.
5. Solid Materials
You will want barstools that match your existing room aesthetically, but that can also stand up to the amount of use expected. A durable bar stool will remain in good stable condition for longer. And in the long run, stability is comfort. You won’t want to sit on a bar stool that feels tipsy every time you move.
Your main options in base materials, aside from any upholstery, will be wood, plastic, and metal. For a more traditional style, go with wood. Metal or plastic is recommended if your dining room leans toward modern tastes. And keeping in mind durability, if you have pets, kids, or live in humid environments, metal might be the ticket.
Handcrafted Metal Bar Stools for Comfortable and Stylish Seating
Nothing beats the stunning elegance and durability of handcrafted metal furniture, whether you want to furnish a trendy coffee shop, old-time salon, or home dining area. Johnston Casuals has been making steel furniture for over 40 years for customers worldwide. Every piece is as much a piece of art as it is functional.
We have a full range of bar stool options. It doesn’t matter if you are looking for something more traditional, sleek, and modern or a retro style. We have something for everyone, and each piece comes with a wide selection of choices for color and finish. Visit a dealer near you or browse our online catalog to start your journey toward the space of your dreams that will last a lifetime.
