We recently purchased a 54" square pub (that means counter height  right?) table that came with 8 chairs. I keep 6 chairs at the table and 2 at the small island. We are a family of 4 and we *love* this table. I purchased the coolest lazy Susan made from the top of a wine barrel which works *perfect* for our family and this size table. Our "eat in" space needed either a round or square, and we just really like the look of the taller table. IÂm half wishing that we purchased a 60" table  but IÂm not 100% sure I would like it space wise once it was there. Wheatciti  Maybe you should post a picture of your table so we can see what it looks like. Folks may be better able to assist you that way.

Pepper, your cart idea sounds peachy! I could've used a gardening cart when I had an apartment. Hope you'll post pictures if it ever comes to pass. Florantha, I've come to the same conclusion about the stools. It seems like such a nice idea to be able to hide seating away...but not when it's such a tiny cart with tinier seating. I'm so glad to know your family used a similar old table for much the same purpose! I checked out a local antique store today and came across a few possible options. The one with the best body (sexy legs!) ;) was also a little beat up, but I'm hoping DH will let me know if it's worth saving and if so indulge my refinishing it (since it will distract me from wanting to paint the cabinets).

Alder & Tweed has some other stool options. Check and see if any may be appropriate: http://www.alderandtweedfurniture.com/shop/dining/cloister-counter-stool/

Hope those boards wee super scrubbed and dried before even think about using them for anything. As for the height of a the seat IMO 18" is perfect for most users so I think you will be fine for height.