There’s something about the kitchen that draws people in. Whether it’s for slow weekend
breakfasts, weeknight catch-ups over a glass of red, or just lingering while dinner
bubbles away — the kitchen island is often where it all happens.
And that makes bar stools prime real estate.
But how do you choose the right ones? With so many factors to consider,
from height and style, material and whether to go with a back or without, it can feel a
little overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together a simple, step-by-step guide to help
you choose bar stools that suit both your space and lifestyle. Whether you’re after comfort,
cohesion, or a touch of flair, here’s what to keep in mind when picking your perfect perch.
Height Matters
Let’s start with the basics, and I promise this is the only step that requires
a tape measure. First, measure from the floor to the underside of your bench or counter.
The golden rule is you want to have 25-30cm between the top of the seat and the
underside of your counter for optimal leg room. Most kitchen counters in Australia
sit around 90cm high, so stools with a seat height of roughly 65 to 68cm
work best here. If you’ve got a bar top on the higher side (usually around 105cm),
aim for a seat height of 75–78cm. Wobbly knees and crunched thighs are a hard pass.
Back It Up
Stools come in all shapes and sizes: backless, low-back, high-back, swivel, static.
The best way to choose? Think about how you actually use your space. If your
kitchen island is mostly for quick coffee stops or occasional sitting, backless stools offer
a sleek, streamlined look and tuck away neatly. But if it’s where guests linger for hours
or where kids snack (and spin), stools with backs provide much-needed support and comfort.
Personally, if your space allows, I always recommend opting for a back
— your back will thank you.
Material World
Choosing the right material for your bar stools is about more than just looks, it’s about
how they’ll fit into your life. For example, if you have kids or pets, durable and easy-to-clean
options like leather or metal might be your best bet. On the other hand, if you want to create
a cozy, inviting spot, soft fabrics like velvet or boucle can add that perfect touch of
comfort and style. And if you plan to use your stools for multiple purposes,
lightweight stools that are easy to move could be a game changer.
Room To Relax
Take into account how many stools you actually need, and how many you can fit.
Make sure you leave enough room between each stool — overcrowding might work
for houseplants, but not people. Also, think about flow: swivel stools are fun,
but not when they’re clanging into cabinetry or your legs are knocking the nearest wall.
While you’re at it, check the placement of footrests too (always opt for footrests)
— they should be easy to reach without having your knees touching your chin
or having to perch awkwardly.
Colour Theory
As with any interior choices, you can play it safe or make a statement. Match your
stool colour to your cabinetry or flooring for a minimalist, tonal look, contrast them to make
make your bench area the focal point. Think contrast, not clash. A matte black frame adds
definition in a crisp white kitchen. Warm rattan brings texture and softness to cool grey stone.
Materials and tones should complement your space, not compete with it.
It’s all a balancing act!
Bar stools might seem like just another piece of furniture, but they work hard in a home.
They’re the spot for morning coffees, extra guests, late-night snacks and everything in
between, so they need to look good and feel good. The right stool should suit your layout,
work with your materials, and make everyday use easy, from the footrest to the finish.
It’s worth getting them right.
If you’re stuck on where to start or what to look for, I can help you
narrow the options and find something that works for your space. Just get in touch.
