Here we have a look at what to watch out for when buying new bar stools for your kitchen. There are three main things to consider - stool height, usage and style/ colour.
Getting the dimensions right
The height obviously depends on the height of what you are going to sit at. But - an important reminder - bar chairs are generally a little taller than countertop stools. So if your kitchen island surface is the same height as your kitchen worksurface (90-95cm) you will be looking for a seat height between 60-75cm. If you have a high bar-style breakfast bar (101-106cm) then you will be wanting a seat height of 75cm and above. The Oakley brown leather barstool is a great choice as the height is adjustable - great for in the kitchen - but also won't look out of place at a reclaimed wood dining table if you need to add an extra seat when entertaining.
Ideally, you want a minimum of 15 cm space in between the bar stools, this should give you plenty of space to eat, drink and turn without disrupting others sitting with you. You also should consider how much legroom will be needed and if you have the space for the stools if they do not tuck under the surface fully.
Usage
This depends on how you will be using this new seating area, if you are adding a place to spend time at - for evening meals and for people to sit for a longer time then bar stools with backs will be way more comfortable. I would also opt for a back if smaller children may be sitting on them so they can't topple backwards. If however, it will be a spot for a quick breakfast or the occasional snack then you should not really need back on them.
Photo features from left: Dorset Reclaimed Wood Breakfast Bar Stool and Lansdowne Industrial Faux Leather Bar Stool
Style and colour
With so many styles to choose from this could be a bit of a minefield. Just because you have a light wood kitchen does not mean you have to have light wooden bar stools - you can go for a bold colour to add a modern contrast, use the opportunity to introduce an industrial element or opt for the classic leather bar stools. To bring in a luxurious look then you can opt for a classic velvet button back.
Photo features from left: Standford Blue Velvet Bar Stool and Chelsea Black Velvet Bar Stool
Adding a bar table
If you love the idea of a kitchen island, but lack the space then the Standford industrial reclaimed wood bar table is a great choice. Available in large for four stools and small for two stools, this can be styled with a whole array of faux leather barstools that will match or add contrast to your kitchen.
