Bar Stool

A bar stool gives you a feeling that is uniquely different from that of a regular chair. Some say they like the ‘tall-feeling’ while some thoroughly enjoy getting a one shot view of the entire surrounding. Besides finding a definite place at bar counters and tall restaurant tables, barstool is increasingly sought-after as a casual seating option in the kitchen, dining room or outdoor garden. Long, slender legs with or without back support; cushioned or plain surface, elegant designs and styles that conform to purpose - bar stools are versatile, elegant, stylish, attractive, comfortable and useful.

The bar stool market is fast undergoing a revolution, in terms of newer features, materials, styles, designs and trends. There are simple yet elegant bar stools to match every interior decorating style. Which one should you buy? Our informative bar stool guide can make the selection process successful and easier.

Versatile bar stool

The high, elevated seating element most unique with bar stools has contributed in deriving its name. Bar stools come in different heights. The standard height of a barstool is usually 30 inches high – a level that is convenient to access the bar counter. Raised seating, slender looks, space economy are the three key features that continue to influence many people to consider bar stool as a stylish accessory as well as a practical piece of home furniture.

• Bar stools complement home décor. Add variety to living room and select a bar stool that complements living room furniture.
  
• A stand-by barstool comes handy for creating extra seating anytime anywhere.
  
• A couple of bar stools on your outdoor deck or patio can create extra comfortable seats for your guests.
  
• A bar stool can serve multi-purpose- a telephone stand, plant stand or to rest beverage outdoors or indoors.
  
• In the kitchen, you can enjoy a quick meal perched on a bar stool.
  

Bar stool varieties

The process of choosing the right bar stool begins with understanding and determining the right bar stool seat height. The height is the distance between the bottom of the leg to the top of the seat. For a comfortable seating arrangement, allow 26-30 inches between the centers of each stool.

• Measure the height from the floor to the top of the kitchen counter, dining table or home bar.
  
• Measure the vertical height and the horizontal length of the area.
  
• Allow a 10-12 inch difference between your tabletop and seat.
  
• For a comfortable feel, bar stools should be about 12" shorter than your counter.
  

Now, it’s time to consider the type of barstool you require. Consider various designs, materials and features of bar stools that appeal to you and match with your specific preference. The variety is bewildering. Bar stools come in a variety of materials - wood, rattan, bamboo, iron, wicker, aluminum, bentwood, brass and blended materials. Bar stools in modernistic designs add to the versatility. With regard to styles, you can choose from retro, swivel or stationary, countertops, patio bar stools, saddle bar stools with back or backless, with tilting seats and seat backs, adjustable heights in almost all colors, added cushion for comfort and armrests to suit both indoor and outdoor needs. Bar stool seats can be metal, wood, or upholstered in almost any fabric such as leather, vinyl or micro fiber or just metal or wood.

A prospective bar stool buyer should match home décor, the intended use of bar stools with economy of price. For instance, it would suffice if bar stools merely serve the functional aspect alone for use in the kitchen or counters. On the other hand, for use in other parts of home, the style, material type and looks gain priority so as to match and complement interior decorating style.

• If you have adopted a tropical style, choose rattan stools.
  
• For traditional décor, prefer natural wood stools with intricate angles and curves and designs.
  
• For French bistro style/ethnic style, wrought iron stools.
  
• For a touch of sophistication and durability, consider leather bar stools.
  
• To retain natural look, prefer oak bar stools.
  
• To match a particular theme, tailor-design barstools with select upholstery material