Furniture Favorites: Bar Stools
Becky Harris
August 29, 2010
Houzz Contributor. Hi there! I live in a 1940s cottage in Atlanta that I'll describe as "collected."
I got into design via Landscape Architecture, which I studied at the University of Virginia.
Houzz Contributor. Hi there! I live in a 1940s cottage in Atlanta that I'll describe... More
When I was admiring the Emeco Navy Chair Bar Stools this week, I was thinking about how hard it is to find great looking bar stools. But then I started to look around Houzz. I had NO IDEA there were so many great options out there.
I've also noticed from my picks that for the most part, I'm drawn to the more simple, no-frills styles, whether they are Shaker, vintage industrial, or modern. Often, these are not the most comfortable bar stools on the market. However, I don't think people tend to sit in these for hours and hours. You have a meal, you keep the chef company in the kitchen, you have a cocktail, and then you're off to cushier upholstered places. If you like to sit for many hours in your bar stools to play cards, do homework, etc. you may want to opt from something with a super cushy seat, a backrest, and arms!
I've added WAY more images than I usually do for one little ideabook to give you the most options. Please let me know if any of these (or any that aren't here) are your favorite in the comments section!
I've also noticed from my picks that for the most part, I'm drawn to the more simple, no-frills styles, whether they are Shaker, vintage industrial, or modern. Often, these are not the most comfortable bar stools on the market. However, I don't think people tend to sit in these for hours and hours. You have a meal, you keep the chef company in the kitchen, you have a cocktail, and then you're off to cushier upholstered places. If you like to sit for many hours in your bar stools to play cards, do homework, etc. you may want to opt from something with a super cushy seat, a backrest, and arms!
I've added WAY more images than I usually do for one little ideabook to give you the most options. Please let me know if any of these (or any that aren't here) are your favorite in the comments section!
I love the swirly detail on the back of these, as well as the comfortable cushions underneath. The black is a nice contrast to the light kitchen.
This kitchen island is enormous and can accommodate at least six of these perfect striped chairs. If you have little ones, I highly recommend Scotchgard or darker colors.
These sleek white stools blend right in with the white island.
I love the mix of very tailored traditional style and these vintage industrial stools. Paired with the white island, they keep the room from looking too matchy-matchy.
Bar stools can serve as sculpture. I'm not sure how well I'd fit into this one though- it might be diet motivation!
Consider backless stools that tuck completely under the island if you want to gain some more floor space.
There's a cushy version of the tuck-under backless stools.
I like that the backs of these are still lower than the island's height. However, don't let anyone try to lean back too far in theses!
I love the modern metal next to the reclaimed wood!
This kitchen has such a nice combination of textures. The neutral palette keeps it from looking like a hodge-podge, and the stools are perfect.
Another great mix of traditional and modern.
These have such a striking shape, and the wood is gorgeous. I want to call them Shaker, but I'm not 100% sure I know what I'm talking about!
More simple design that stands out. Again, I have no idea if I can call it Shaker, but I want to. Can someone please educate me? :)
Footrests are great - your legs can get uncomfortable and fall asleep when they are dangling for too long.
So sleek, and a fun pop of color. Again, I feel like they would make my butt look big, but they are very cool!
Oh how I love Mrs. Limestone's kitchen! The blue vintage stools are such a nice touch.
I am crazy about these French-designed, 1930's aluminum stools. So much so that my dining room has the matching cafe chairs.
Here are the vintage industrial stools in another setting. It's funny, I've used this kitchen facing 180 degrees the other way, but I never knew what a great view it had. I'm very envious of those windows.
I love the curves of these stools.
Now here are the comfortable chairs. The yellow seat cushions give this kitchen a sunny disposition.
Here is the bar stool that made me start looking for more. It is possible to coordinate your bar stools with other chairs in your kitchen. These are all versions of the Navy Chair.
Related Stories
Living Rooms
How to Decorate a Small Living Room
Arrange your compact living room to get the comfort, seating and style you need
Full Story
Decorating Guides
How to Get Your Furniture Arrangement Right
By Fred Albert
Follow these 10 basic layout rules for a polished, pulled-together look in any room
Full Story
Events
20 Furniture Trends to Watch for 2024
See subtle refreshes of enduring trends — plus fun design details — that stood out at the fall 2023 High Point Market
Full Story
Events
10 Fresh Furniture and Decor Trends for 2023
Greens and blues, art and artisanship, and mixed eras and textures fill the spring 2023 collections at High Point Market
Full Story
Living Rooms
How to Buy a Quality Sofa That Will Last
By Fred Albert
Learn about foam versus feathers, seat depth, springs, fabric and more for a couch that will work for years to come
Full Story
Kitchen Islands
6 Bar Stool Styles That Work in (Almost) Every Kitchen
Stick to these materials for your island seating and you won’t go wrong
Full Story
Decorating Guides
Your Essential Sofa Buying Guide
By Susan Redman
Here’s what to consider when looking for a quality sofa that will last
Full Story
Decorating Guides
8 Pieces of Furniture You’ll Keep Forever
By tidgboutique
If you’re just starting out in a new place, consider these furniture options you can take with you to any new home
Full Story
Decorating Guides
Should You Go Custom? Home Professionals Weigh In
Pros share 10 things to consider before deciding between tailor-made and ready-made features and furnishings
Full Story
Events
Scandinavian Modern Classics at Denmark’s 3 Days of Design
Midcentury modern furniture and lighting, and circular design, were showcased at the 2022 festival
Full Story
The wood barstool looks perfect as per decor of the room. Also height of it, is matching with height of the table. But one needs to be careful when quality of the tall barstool matters, no compromise should be made.