Bar stools have become a popular staple in Australian homes, offering a stylish and practical seating solution for kitchen islands, breakfast bars, and home bars. Whether you’re building a new kitchen, revamping your dining area, or creating a relaxed entertaining space, the right bar stool can elevate your decor while providing comfort and function.
With so many styles, heights, and materials to choose from, finding the perfect bar stool can feel overwhelming. This guide will walk you through the key considerations to help you shop bar stools online for your home.
Measure the Right Height
The first and most important step in choosing a bar stool is determining the correct height. Bar stools come in a few standard sizes to suit different counter heights, and getting it wrong can lead to uncomfortable seating and awkward proportions.
- Counter-height stools (usually 60–65 cm seat height) are ideal for kitchen counters and islands that are around 90 cm high.
- Bar-height stools (usually 70–75 cm seat height) are suited for taller bar tables or home bars around 105–110 cm high.
Always allow for 25–30 cm of space between the seat and the underside of the counter for comfortable legroom.
Choose a Style That Matches Your Space
Bar stools come in a wide variety of styles to suit every kitchen or bar aesthetic, from contemporary and industrial to coastal and rustic. When selecting a design, think about your home’s overall interior style.
- Modern kitchens pair well with minimalist stools featuring metal or matte black finishes.
- Hamptons or coastal styles look great with light timber and white finishes.
- Industrial decor often incorporates raw metal, exposed hardware, and darker timbers.
- Scandi-inspired homes suit sleek, curved lines with natural wood and soft neutrals.
Coordinating your bar stools with other furniture or decor elements — such as pendant lights or cabinetry handles — can help create a cohesive look.
Think About Comfort and Function
Bar stools aren’t just about looks — they also need to be comfortable for everyday use, especially in busy households or for entertaining guests.
Key features to consider include:
- Backrests: Provide support for longer sitting periods and are great for families.
- Footrests: Allow for proper posture and comfort.
- Cushioned seats: Add extra softness, particularly for wood or metal stools.
- Swivel functionality: Makes it easier to get on and off the stool, especially in tight spaces.
- Adjustable height: Offers flexibility, especially if your bench height is non-standard.
If you plan on using the stools regularly — for example, for breakfast or casual dinners — prioritise comfort as much as style.
Consider the Materials
Bar stools are made from a variety of materials, each offering its own aesthetic and practical benefits. Your choice will depend on your preferred style, how often the stools will be used, and the level of maintenance you’re comfortable with.
- Wood: Warm and classic; ideal for traditional or coastal interiors. May require sealing to protect against moisture.
- Metal: Durable and modern; perfect for industrial or contemporary homes. Often powder-coated for rust resistance.
- Upholstered: Comfortable and stylish; available in fabric, leather, or faux leather. Offers a premium look but may require more cleaning.
- Plastic or polypropylene: Lightweight, budget-friendly, and easy to clean; ideal for families with kids.
For kitchens or home bars near water or cooking areas, easy-to-clean surfaces and moisture resistance are a smart choice.
Allow for Space and Movement
When choosing bar stools, it’s important to allow enough room between each stool for comfort and movement. A good rule of thumb is to allow at least 15 cm between stools, or more if they have arms or a wide base.
Think about how people will move around your kitchen or bar area — especially in open-plan homes. Stools that can tuck under the bench when not in use are great for saving space and maintaining a clean, uncluttered look.
Final Thoughts
Finding the perfect bar stool is all about balancing style, comfort, and practicality. With the right choice, bar stools can become a standout design feature that adds personality and purpose to your kitchen or home bar.
By measuring your bench height, matching your home’s aesthetic, and thinking carefully about comfort and materials, you’ll be well on your way to selecting stools that enhance both the look and feel of your space.
