Choosing the Right Style of Bar Stool

Bar stools are kind of like any other piece of furniture - they come in several sizes, several styles and several finishes. And choosing the right one can be a daunting task.

From backless to partial backs to full size upholstered chair styles. Simple or detailed, wood or iron,or upholstered and detailed, the list goes on and the options are seemingly endless.

As you can see,  bar stools come in many shapes and sizes and when it comes to choosing the right one for your style - there are so many things to consider - and the overall style is just one of them.

Today I am going to talk a little bit about two of the most popular styles of bar stools - a backless stool and a stool with a full back - and share a bit more about why each are fan favorites.

Backless Bar Stools

Backless bar stools might be my favorite.

Why? Very simply because they can blend in seamlessly in so many spaces and styles.

Without a back that is visible - their style plays the most important part in their look. And they are perfect for tucking into areas where a larger more prominent bar stool would take up too much room.

On top of that, backless bar stools are easy to climb up onto so it makes them a perfect choice for island seating.

1. I love the simple, classic construction and upholstered seat on this Harper Bar Stool.

It has the upholstered seat for comfort while keeping a rustic chic vibe and simple lines.

2. Another classic backless favorite - the Zuo Anaheim Bar Stool. The attention to details is what caught my eye with this one. The carved frame and nail head accents are perfect and bring a bit of style while keeping a low profile.

3. For simplicity - you cannot go wrong with an antiqued black wood saddle seat stool.

4. And for a more modern look - the California Adjustable Acrylic Bar Stool takes the cake while keeping a clean minimalist look.

Bar Stools with Backs

The other style of bar stool I wanted to delve into today is a bar stool with a tall back. These bar stools are made for comfort and are perfect for gathering around a bar where guest might gather, or for a home where breakfast at the kitchen island is common.

Comfort is king with this style - and they are often upholstered, much like any other chair would be in your home.   And while bar stools with backs have been known to take up quite a bit more space visually - they don't have to with the huge amount of styles available today.

1. The cousin to the acrylic backless stool is the  acrylic Malibu Counter Stool. With more functionality for sitting in and leaning back - while keeping a quiet presence.

2. For gorgeous mid-century modern lines and appeal - you can't go wrong with a rounded streamlined bar stool like the Andre Bentwood Counter Stool.

3. For both a modern and traditional look - try an upholstered bar stool such as the Villa Avenue Belgian Linen Counter Stool. I love the nail head details on this one - but you can also find tufting, wing backs and all types of styles to fit you perfectly.

Another very popular style right now is the cross back chair - and it comes in bar stool height as well. The Powell counter Stool is ideal for adding a bit of vintage charm while giving you a comfortable place to sit.

Another consideration when choosing a bar stool is height. They generally come in two height ranges, bar stool height and counter stool height, and when shopping for new stools, make sure to measure your existing ones first - or measure the counter height ahead of time. You need room for legs and knees to keep the comfort and conversation coming.  

What style bar stool would you choose for your home?

Images:French Country Cottage