Bar + Counter Stools

    Bar Stools & Counter Stools

    Bar and counter stools do double duty in most homes — they're seating for everyday meals, casual conversation while someone cooks, and a place for guests to land during gatherings. The right stool needs to fit the height of the surface, work with the style of the kitchen or dining space, and hold up to regular use. This collection covers bar and counter stools in wood, upholstered, and mixed-material styles, with options across the range of heights needed for standard counter height, bar height, and extra-tall island seating.

    What is the difference between a bar stool and a counter stool?
    The difference is in the seat height. Counter stools are designed for standard kitchen counters and islands, which typically measure 36 inches high — counter stools with a seat height of 24 to 26 inches work best here. Bar stools are taller, designed for bar-height surfaces that measure around 40 to 42 inches — these need a seat height of 28 to 30 inches. Before buying, measure the height of your counter or island from the floor to the underside of the surface and aim for 9 to 13 inches of clearance between the seat and the surface for comfortable seating.

    How many stools fit at a kitchen island?
    Allow 26 to 30 inches of space per stool along the length of the island for comfortable seating with room to move. For a 6-foot island, that typically means 2 to 3 stools. For an 8-foot island, 3 to 4 stools fit well without feeling crowded. If your stools have arms or are on the wider side, lean toward more space per seat. The goal is seating that people can get in and out of easily without bumping into each other.