Bar stools for the kitchen: types and selection rules

Bar stool - features and characteristics

There are quite a lot of features by which bar chairs can be unmistakably recognized:

All models have very high legs or stops. This is due to the considerable height of the bar counters;
The backrest is always low and the seat is minimal. You won't find any major variations. This approach is required to ensure maximum sustainability;
This is an element for group placement. A single bar stool in design is unthinkable;
Narrow range of destinations. They are not used for any other purposes. The only exception is that the bar counter can be replaced with a table on a leg of the same height;
Very unusual appearance, reminiscent of “octopuses”;
A wide range of variations, taking into account the use of modern materials and stylistic solutions.

Decide on a style

The first thing to do when choosing bar stools is to decide on the style. If the bar counter is part of the kitchen set, you should first consider models from the same factory as the kitchen furniture. This is especially true for classic kitchens with an abundance of decor.

In the photo on the left: bar stools for the kitchen FM Bottega D'Arte Roma. In the photo on the right: bar stools Amclassic 23100CA. TC suitable for Directoire #1 kitchen.

If a bar counter or high table logically separates the space of the kitchen and living room, the chairs should be in harmony in style with the furniture in the living room.

In the photo: bar stools in the combined kitchen-living room space. Project “In One Breath”, author: Olga Khovanskaya.

Some factories offer a series of dining and bar chairs in the same style. Such models will be a good purchase for an interior where a bar counter and a dining table form a single eating area.

In the photo: Costantini Pietro Villa series of dining and bar chairs.

Types of bases for bar chairs and chairs

Currently, the following types of bar stools are distinguished:

Classic. They can be easily identified by their square wooden seats;
Irish. Soft upholstery dominates here, or the chairs are complemented with special cushions. Always performed with armrests;
Bar stool. They are distinguished by the complete absence of armrests and backrests. They look very original, but you won’t be able to sit on such a variation for long. They are characterized by inconvenience;
Foldable. Equipped with special folding mechanisms. The result is easy storage;
Futuristic or designer. Easily recognized by its unusual design and exalted appearance;
Semi bar. By default, they look like ordinary chairs, only the legs are noticeably higher.

They differ from each other and in their legs:

4 legs. In a situation with a square seat, they will be very similar to regular chairs in a mini version. If the seat is round, then the legs are additionally equipped with one or more ring stops placed at different heights. They cover the legs, giving the chair additional stability. A very characteristic feature for stools;
1 leg. A wide round or ring-shaped support becomes a prerequisite. Often such models are made with swivel seats. This makes the process of using them much easier. But, if there are children in the house, then you will have to keep your eyes open. The considerable height of the bar stools makes this moment dangerous for little naughty people;
Foldable. There will be 4 legs, but they will not run parallel to themselves, but cross at an angle. As a result, the front legs serve as a support for the back of the chair and vice versa. This is due to the peculiarities of the folding mechanism. It looks very unusual, and allows you to fold the chairs until they are completely flat;
Unusual. The legs may be interlaced or curved. There is no need to worry about stability, since this parameter must be calculated.

No less important is the additional equipment specific to stops:

Footrests. They are made in the form of special ring-shaped or tubular stands placed forward. Very comfortable not only in terms of leg placement. They also make it easier to climb onto a bar stool;
Gas elevator. This element, familiar from office chairs, is an excellent alternative to a footrest. Height adjustment will help you sit on a fairly high chair without any problems. But in the process there will be no comfortable support for the feet.

In the event of a breakdown, the requirements are the same as always. The gas lift cartridge must not be disassembled or depressurized. It can only be replaced with a new, serviceable part.

Choose a design

At this stage, you have to decide how often and for how long you plan to use your bar stools.

Material.

When choosing the material from which the chair is made, consider the fact that some materials, such as acrylic or plastic, look very attractive and stylish, but their strength may not be sufficient for you. Therefore, if suddenly one of your family members weighs more than 90 kg, it is better to opt for more durable materials: metal or wood.

Footrest . _ _

A footrest is a necessary component of a bar stool, providing comfort when sitting. Therefore, if a bar stool does not have a footrest, then you should not even pay attention to such a chair.

Base.

This element needs to be given special attention. The most stable bar stools are those with four legs. At the same time, if your family members are of different heights, then you should choose a chair with a seat height adjustment feature.

Back.

The importance of the back of a bar stool cannot be overestimated. If you plan to use the bar stool for decorative purposes or for quick snacks at the counter, choose any backrest option. But if the bar counter serves you as a dining table, the presence of a backrest is a must.

Upholstery.

When choosing the type of upholstery for the seat and back of a bar stool, you need to prioritize style and comfort. Upholstered seats, upholstered in leather, vinyl or fabric, are more comfortable and soft to the touch. Hard coatings, such as acrylic, plastic, metal, wood, usually have more stylish shapes.

Upholstered in fabric, these bar stools are comfortable, but not very practical to use.

Types of seats

The size of the seat largely depends on its shape. The following types are distinguished:

Square;
Rounded;
Round;
Cup-shaped;
Ergonomic. In this case, the seat will be made with all the characteristic bulges and depressions, ensuring a fully comfortable fit.

The following types of design are also distinguished:

Back and armrests. The most comfortable option, suitable for long periods of sitting;
Only the back. There may be problems with hand placement. You will have to lean on the counter regularly;
Stool. It will have neither a back nor armrests. Suitable for short term use only.

The standard height dimensions are:

Stand 110 cm – 75 cm height of chair legs;
120 cm – 85 cm;
130 cm – 90 cm.

Height must be taken into account based on your own height. Very tall people will need lowered chairs.

Regarding the seats, the recommended width and depth are from 40 to 50 cm, and the height of the backrest rarely exceeds 25 - 35 cm.

Folding bar stools

Such models are very convenient if the dining area is not large.

Here's our advice: if you don't have much space in the kitchen, but you like to invite guests from time to time, then buy several basic bar stools (according to the number of regular “users”) and several folding models. You can store the latter in a closet and take it out only when necessary. This will help you save space and also not worry about where to seat your guests every time.

Manufacturing materials

The most commonly used base materials for manufacturing are:

Wood. Valued for durability, affordability and good appearance. Knowing its tendency to be damaged by bugs and instability to rot, you will need to regularly impregnate with antiseptics and renew the varnish;
Metals. The most popular are those that are highly decorative. These are chrome steel or titanium coated metals. Non-glossy metals and rough steels are used much less frequently. The material is durable, beautiful, reliable, plastic. Afraid of moisture;
Plastic. A common option, although low weight can cause instability. The best option is a plastic seat with upholstery on a metal frame;
Strained glass. It looks very original and airy. You will need to be careful with it as it may scratch or scrape the floor.

Upholstery materials

It is better to use as upholstery:

Alcantara. An excellent synthetic substitute for suede, devoid of all its disadvantages. At the same time, performance and appearance are completely preserved;
Eco leather. A high-quality substitute for genuine leather, very similar to it. The soft material is pleasant to the touch, beautiful, and easy to care for. But, he is afraid of mechanical damage;
Nubuck. This is a type of genuine leather, characterized by the presence of medium-sized pile. Very soft, durable, beautiful. A small drawback is the tendency to rub like suede.

Bar stools - catalog with photos and prices.

Photo of bar stools in the kitchen interior

Bar stools can become a true decoration of your home and the best parties you throw. Give your kitchen a new face with this original piece of furniture.

Are hard bar stools comfortable?

Bar stools of the simplest design - a rigid high “stool” without a back and soft upholstery - are suitable for many cafes or bars. But at home, such models can be useful only if you are not used to spending a lot of time at the table.

Models with upholstery and soft filling are much more comfortable. Although they often require more careful care. Bar stools upholstered in natural or artificial leather are better suited for the kitchen - they can be easily cleaned of dirt with a simple damp cloth. If you choose fabric upholstery, it is better to give preference to dense, non-staining material, preferably with a special impregnation against stains.