Kitchen Encounters of the Design Kind: How to Choose the Perfect Counter Stools

Our modern, busy lifestyles do not give us much time to prepare a proper home-cooked meal. Even being able to sit around the dining table is now a luxury we can only occasionally afford. So, in our quest to save time and avoid cleaning up the table after every meal, our counters have become the spot where we have our breakfast, lunch and dinner. Quite convenient, right? But how you make the most out of a counter? With some stools, that’s how! If you’re ready to up your kitchen game with a stylish set of counter stools, here’s what you need to consider.
Style

Let’s be honest, we all want something that will complement our kitchen perfectly. So obviously, looks will greatly influence your decision. When it comes to counter stools, they come in every design imaginable – from sleek modern counter stools to vintage classics. For instance, Bentwood stools are popular in traditional interiors and add the perfect balance to high kitchen ceilings. On the other hand, modern counter stools with leather saddle can look very powerful in a room with a more masculine design. The trick is to look around you and get inspired by your existing setting.

Materials

Metal and plastic are an easy choice for counter stools in a busy kitchen as they are super easy to clean up. Plus, they are usually more affordable than wood. However, wooden counter stools are timeless favourites because they add some warmth and depth to the space. Additionally, you can consider getting a mix of two different materials, like for instance metal and wood which is a great choice for kitchens with an industrial or eclectic vibe.

Height

Be careful, you mustn’t confuse counter stools with bar stools. Although the two look very much alike, they are designed to fit a different kind of surface, namely, a bar or a counter. The standard counter is usually 89 – 94 cm tall, whereas a bar is 104 – 109 cm. That being said, there’s also a difference between the height of bar stools and counter stools. In general, counter stools are between 58 and 72 cm high. In order to feel comfortable, there should be at least 30 cm of clearance between the seat and the surface, so get out your measuring tape and carefully check the dimensions before buying. Alternatively, you can always go for a design with an adjustable seat which you can customize according to your needs.