A Guide To Buying Bar Stools

 by Simon Phillips

Bar stools come in loads of different styles and sizes, so it’s worth taking your time to find a design that’s right for you.  Choices include swivel or stationary seats, solid or upholstered seats, and stools with or without arms or backs.  Here are some things to think about when deciding which bar stool design would be best for your home:

• Consider which room you’ll use your bar stools in, as this will influence the design and materials you choose.  Look for a design that will fit in with the theme of your décor, such as traditional wood for a country kitchen or contemporary metal for a modern breakfast bar.
• Think about whether you’ll use your bar stools for eating and drinking.  For instance, if your stools are going to be used at a kitchen countertop or in a home bar, they need to be able to stand up to food and drink spills.  You might want to choose a solid seat, or if you’d prefer padded upholstery, durable fabrics such as leather or vinyl are good choices.  Another option is to get bar stools with back rests that you can tie cushions onto – that way you can easily remove the cushion covers and wash them.

Pay careful attention to the space available when deciding how many bar stools you need.  As a general rule it’s advisable to allow a distance of around 26-30 inches between the middle points of each seat.

• Another important consideration is the height of your table or countertop where you plan to have your bar stools.  You’ll need enough room to be able to fit them neatly under the table when not in use, as well as enough legroom for people to be able to sit comfortably on them.  Aim for a gap of at least 10-13 inches between the seat and the tabletop, and remember to allow room for the arms, if your stools have them.
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Bar stools can be both practical and stylish, and can be great additions to your home.  With a bit of planning and research, you should be able to find a style of bar stool that’s perfect for your needs.

 Simon Phillips has a keen interest in interior design and home improvement, and is the co-founder of www.GetBarstools.com, the leading source for discount bar stools. Find a huge range of styles including kitchen bar stools, wood bar stools and counter height stools.