Blog

Jun 04, 2023

10 Best Counter Stools and Bar Stools to Shop in 2023

Updated on 3/6/2023 at 6:10 PM Whether you're searching for the perfect seating for your kitchen island, home bar, standing desk, or a window with a view, finding counter and bar stools that provide

Updated on 3/6/2023 at 6:10 PM

Whether you're searching for the perfect seating for your kitchen island, home bar, standing desk, or a window with a view, finding counter and bar stools that provide the right height while checking all of your other boxes can be a tall order. If you're a sucker for high-top seating at restaurants and bars, you probably appreciate being able to easily transition from sitting to standing — an ideal setup for mingling.

Like shopping for a new sofa, choosing stools that fit your design aesthetic might seem easy, but can be surprisingly difficult. For expert guidance, we tapped Delyse Berry, cofounder of interiors and real estate firm Upstate Down. Berry specializes in sourcing home decor, furniture consultation, and creating strategic layouts, so she understands the importance of merging form and function for the ideal bar and counter stool.

While these two terms are sometimes used interchangeably, Berry points out there's a difference in height worth paying attention to. "Bar height stools are generally around 30 inches off the ground for a 42-inch bar height. Counter height stools are generally around 25 inches off the ground for a 36-inch counter," she tells POPSUGAR. It's important to get exact measurements for your counter and make sure the seat height of the stool is going to be comfortable for you.

There's nothing worse than having a cluttered walkway or seating that's squeezed so close together you can't move. Berry has a general rule of thumb for considering the space you'll need for kitchen island seating. "Typically, the working side of an island is a busy walkway and workspace. The stool side of an island should ideally be more open and have substantially more space behind it," says Berry. When sourcing bar and counter stools, she keeps in mind a specific formula: "We like to leave at least 48 inches of space between the back of kitchen island stools and any other furniture or structure. As a standard seating rule, you should have at least 24 inches of space for one seat and about 6 inches between stools."

To narrow down the options, you'll want to first consider your budget. Deciding how much you want to spend will help you hone in on choices that are accessible. Functionality should also play a critical role. Do you need stools with swivel mechanisms? Do you have kids who need to be able to adjust their stools to reach the counter? If comfort is a high priority, you might want to look for stools with cushioned seats.

Berry also points out another big decision choice: choosing between going backless or opting for a back for extra support. "For a super minimal look or if the countertops are really show-stopping, we might go backless to really let the kitchen shine," she says. On the other hand, she points out that comfort isn't the only reason you might choose a stool with a back. "There are so many beautifully made stools; using one with a full back is a great opportunity to add texture and warmth to your kitchen," she says. "[Chair backs are] a great chance to add some curved shapes to a linear space," she says. When asked about her go-to materials, earthier options took the lead. "We love using leather, natural fibers, and linen," she says.

Read ahead to check out our 10 favorite bar and counter stools that range from stationary seats with ample back support to sleek swivel stools that belong in open-concept spaces.

Chic, comfortable, and easy to clean, this Castlery Edith Cane Bar Stool ($299) scores major points for its versatility.

What we love:

Who it's best for:

Who should avoid it:

The Details: Seat Height: 29.9" | Material: Solid rubber wood fram; Foam and fabric seat

This Project 62™ Timo Swivel Counter Height Barstool ($105) is a midcentury-inspired stunner with plenty of perks.

What we love:

Who it's best for:

Who should avoid it:

The Details: Seat Height: 24" | Material: Stained hardwood frame and ployester upholstery | Weight Capacity: 275 lbs.

The iconic design of this Stone & Beam Wishbone Counter-Height Dining Chair ($330) is truly timeless, so you don't have to worry about it going out of style.

What we love:

Who it's best for:

Who should avoid it:

The Details: Seat Height: 24.65" | Material: Birch wood frame with a paper-rope seat | Weight Capacity: 250 lbs.

The modern-farmhouse style of this Sharman Solid Wood Bar & Counter Stool ($75, originally $105, for a set of two) is a classic for a reason.

What we love:

Who it's best for:

Who should avoid it:

The Details: Seat Height: 28.62" | Material: Solid wood | Weight Capacity: 250 lbs.

These Pottery Barn Zoe Counter Stools ($598 for a set of two) embody warm minimalism. The seat's textural bucket-weave fabric pairs beautifully with its clean silhouette and modern edge.

What we love:

Who it's best for:

Who should avoid it:

The Details: Height: 24" | Material: Rubberwood and laminated veneer; polyester | Weight Capacity: 225 lbs.

These NicBex Swivel Bar Stools ($90 for a set of two) offer loads of utility in a sleek silhouette.

What we love:

Who it's best for:

Who should avoid it:

The Details: Seat Height: 24-33" | Material: Waterproof PU leather with high density sponge-filled seating | Weight Capacity: 240 lbs.

As Bauhaus-inspired beauties, these Article Walsh Bar Stools ($260 for a set of two) capture the movement's minimal yet luxe aesthetic.

What we love:

Who it's best for:

Who should avoid it:

The Details: Height: 30"| Material: Steel, manufactured wood, polyester, and foam | Weight Capacity: 250 lbs.

If you're looking for stools that play a supporting role instead of stealing the stage, Berry recommends going with backless stools. This Castlery Abel Leather Counter Stool ($229) still packs plenty of style with its slim legs and curved leather seat. It also has a perfect five-star rating from more than 30 reviewers.

What we love:

Who it's best for:

Who should avoid it:

The Details: Height: 26.8" | Material: Solid rubber wood frame with metal foot tube; Top grain leather seat

If you want a high-end look on a budget, this Landis Woven Backed Counter Height Barstool with Cushion ($120) could easily be mistaken for a designer stool.

What we love:

Who it's best for:

Who should avoid it:

The Details: Seat Height: 24.02" | Material: Metal frame and a jute-like weave

You can customize the color and leg style of this West Elm Wire Frame Leather Bar and Counter Stool ($424-$549), but we love this deep caramel-colored leather and brass pairing.

What we love:

Who it's best for:

Who should avoid it:

The Details: Height: 26" | Material: Faux leather or leather; Metal frame | Weight Capacity: 275 lbs.

This West Elm Gable Metal Barstool ($329) captures major style in a small frame and is suitable for both indoors and outdoors.

What we love:

Who it's best for:

Who should avoid it:

The Details: Height: 30.4" | Material: Aluminum