Shopping for Bar Stools
If you're looking to update your kitchen, bar or any other space with a countertop, you may want to consider shopping for new bar stools. A bar stool is a high chair with a padded seat that is typically used by patrons of a bar. Bar stools are not limited to use in a bar. Hamburger joints, ice cream shops and taco stands use bar stools at their counters for their patrons. Bar stools are versatile chairs that work well in the home as well. You can use a bar stool at a breakfast bar in the kitchen, a high kitchen counter, a kitchen island or a home bar in your recreation room. There are many styles of bar stools available on the market. You will need to pick the bar stool that best fits the style and size of your countertop. Depending on your space needs and your personal taste, you can find a bar stool, or set of bar stools, that will fit your seating needs.
Taking Measurements
Before you hit the furniture stores in search of your bar stool, you will want to measure the counter level of where you want to place your bar stools. Take your measuring tape and measure from the floor to about nine inches below your countertop. You will want to give your guest seated in your bar stool at least a nine-inch clearance between their seat and the counter. Keep in mind the standard height for a bar is about 42-inches. Note your measurement, and see how much space you have available. Determine how many chairs you will need for your counter. Once you determine how many chairs you need, examine your space one more time. If it’s a small space, then you will need smaller bar stools. Your basic bar stool is about two feet wide.
Backed Or Un-Backed?
Bar stools come backed and un-backed. Un-backed bar stools are a good option if you don’t plan on sitting in the stool for an extended period of time. They are also a good option if you have a tight space. Stools with backs are more comfortable, but they can be up to six inches wider then their backless counterparts. If you have the space, then backed barstool may be the right choice for your bar or countertop. Backed bar stools come with and without arms. Once again, take in consideration your space and needs.
Swivel Or Fixed?
Once you have determined if you need a backed or un-backed bar stool, you will need to determine if you want a swivel or fixed bar stool. As the name implies, swivel bar stools turn from side to side to allow patrons to move side-to-side in a fixed location. If you plan on bolting your bar stools to the ground or have limited space, then you will want a swivel barstool. Swivel bar stools allow a range of motion without moving the position of the chair. Keep in mind that swivel bar stools are more expensive then fixed bar stools. Swivel bar stools also require more maintenance then the fixed bar stool. You will need to grease your swivel barstool every six months to keep it moving properly.
Metal Or Wood?
Whether you choose metal or wood bar stools depends on the overall look you are trying to achieve. Wood bar stools work well in pub and pool hall. Wood adds a classic, vintage look to a space. Wood bar stools are also a good choice for kitchens islands and breakfast nooks. Metal bar stools are a good option for burger joints, ice cream parlors and modern-looking bars. If you have a sleek urban look to your space, then a metal bar stool will fit well with your overall design.
Bar Stool Cushions
You have narrowed down your bar stool choices, and now you have to pick is the type of cushion you will use on your stool. You can choose to have your bar stools uncovered. Uncovered bar stools are less expensive, but they can quickly become uncomfortable to use. For your bar stool cover, you can choose; vinyl, leather or fabric. Since you most likely will be eating and drinking as you sit on your stool, you will want to make sure your cover has a protective coating. If your cover is fabric, choose stain-resistant fabric or have it professionally sprayed with fabric protector. If your cover is leather, use a spray leather protector on your seat. If you have kids or are prone to spills, vinyl may be your best option. Vinyl is easy to clean and maintain, and with recent innovations in vinyl, it can give your bar stool a high-end look.
