The most important thing to get right with bar stools is the height. Too low and you are reaching up to your plate; too high and your knees are jammed under the bench. Here is how to choose the right stool for your kitchen island or bar.
Measure your bench
Measure from the floor to the underside of your benchtop overhang. Then look for a stool with a seat about 25 to 30cm lower than that measurement. That gap gives you comfortable leg room.
Counter height vs bar height
- Kitchen bench or island (counter height): usually about 90cm high. Look for a stool with a seat height of roughly 60 to 68cm.
- Bar height: usually about 105 to 110cm high. Look for a stool with a seat height of roughly 72 to 80cm.
Most Australian kitchen islands are counter height, so counter stools are the most common choice. Always check the seat height in the product measurements before ordering.
How many stools fit?
Allow roughly 60cm per stool, measured centre to centre, and a bit more for stools with arms or swivel seats. As a guide, a 180cm island bench fits three stools comfortably.
Backs, footrests and upholstery
- Backrests are more comfortable for longer sitting, such as homework or working at the bench.
- Footrests make a big difference to comfort at higher seat heights.
- Upholstered seats are softer and add colour; wipe-clean materials are practical for families.
Leave room to move
Keep about 90cm of clear walkway behind the stools so people can pass without squeezing.
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Shop clearance furniture in Melbourne
Mentone Furniture Clearance Centre sells brand-new excess stock and discontinued lines from high-end brands at up to 80% off RRP. Visit our Cheltenham showroom (Opposite Moorabbin DFO on Grange Road), open 7 days: Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm and Sunday 11am to 5pm. Prefer to shop online? We deliver from $40 Australia-wide, and you can pay with Afterpay or Zip. Questions? Call us on 03 8522 2115.
