A seating style that's gaining more and more popularity, bar stools are a comfortable and versatile seating option for any kitchen island or bar. But with so many stool designs to choose from, our bar stool size guide is there to help you find the best option for your home and includes information on stool height, width as well as extra tips.

Bar Stool Size Guide

Jump to:

• Types of Bar Stool Height
• Measuring Legroom
• Measuring Backrest Height and Stool Depth
• Leaving Distance Between Stools
• Types of Bar Stools

Types of Bar Stool Height

First things first, it helps to know that bar stools come in five different groups: Short, Counter, Bar, Extra Tall and Adjustable.

Short Bar Stools

Short bar stools are considered to be any bar stool with a seat height of no more than 60cm. Rather than accommodate to a typical countertop, short bar stools are best suited to tabletops that sit no more than 70 - 76cm tall.

Counter Height Bar Stools

Counter stools are by far the most common type of stool found in the home and are usually placed near a kitchen counter or at a breakfast nook. Their seat height ranges between 61 - 70cm.

Bar Height Stools

Bar stools are meant for taller breakfast bar areas, therefore their seats come up slightly taller than a counter stool at 71 - 85cm.

Extra Tall Bar Stools

Extra tall bar stools are usually kept for commercial use in bars or restaurants and come with a their seat height 85cm.

Adjustable Height Bar Stools

Adjustable bar stools are a good option if you're looking to accommodate two different bar heights with one interchangeable bar stool. These stool types come with a height range of 60 - 85cm.

Now you have an idea of what type of stools and their height are available, begin measuring the height of your counter or tabletop and use our size filters to help find your perfect stools.

Measuring Legroom

Of course with any bar stool, you want to make sure that you have enough legroom space, so you can sit comfortably and move and cross your legs with ease. For this, we recommend measuring the underside of your counter or bar all the way to the floor and then subtracting 25 - 30cm, depending on how much space you want to have.

Measuring Backrest Height and Bar Stool Depth

Another factor to take into consideration when shopping for bar stools is the stool's depth and backrest height, since the backrest will add to the overall depth. An average bar stool comes with a depth of around 40cm, but with a backrest this number can increase by an additional 5 - 10cm, depending on whether you choose a low or full back stool.

Take into consideration where you'll be placing your stools and what the traffic aka 'people movement' is like around them. If you're looking to set your stools in a space that is limited or with a lot of traffic, then backless stools may be your best option.

Leaving Distance Between Bar Stools

The final step before making your purchase is to determine how many stools will fit at your desired space without getting cramped. Start by measuring the width of your counter or breakfast nook and leave roughly 15cm between each stool, or 20 - 25cm if you're going for stools with added arm rests or swivel technique. This will ensure that each person has easy access to and from the stool, as well as enough space to sit comfortably.

Types of Bar Stools

Now that you've figured out the proper bar stool dimensions for your space, it's time to choose which style and what features will work best for your kitchen island or countertop.

Backless Bar Stool

A backless bar stool is a simple option if you're looking to keep your kitchen furniture minimal. Backless bar stools are commonly made from metal, wood and acrylic so note that these might not be the most comfortable option for long-term coffee dates. A quick homework session? Perfect.

Bar Stool with Arm Rests

Bar stools with arm rests are the best choice if comfort is your number one priority. Arm rests create more support than backless stools. Because these stools are wider than other styles, meaning you might not be able to fit as many under your counter as planned.

Upholstered Seat Bar Stool

Upholstered seats are a plush option to choose if your family eats most meals at your kitchen counter. The upholstered seat creates a nice flair, making them seem more formal than other wood or metal options.

Swivel Bar Stool

Choose swivel bar stools to make getting into and out of your breakfast bar or kitchen island a breeze. Swivel bar stools also give you the most range of motion, making conversations easier.

Tip: Why stop you're journey into dining doesn't have to end here! Check out these additional articles:

• Dining Chair Dimensions: How to Choose the Right Size
• 7 Ways to Effortlessly Mix and Match Dining Chairs
• 8 Garden Bar Ideas to Serve Up This Summer