Bar stools for the kitchen attract many people. This is both a stylish and convenient solution. In addition, with proper space planning, such furniture can help save valuable square furniture. This article will discuss how to correctly arrange chairs for the bar counter in the kitchen.
Are you planning to create a modern and cozy kitchen interior? Designer bar stools in completely different styles will help you with this!
How to choose bar stools based on your kitchen interior
In order for the selected models to delight you with their convenience and appearance, you need to take care of a number of important nuances. Which ones? The following will list the main selection criteria that you should pay attention to before purchasing the model you like.
The variety of bar stool designs is amazing in its quantity.
Choose height and size
The height of the chair will depend on the height of the bar counter. These two indicators must correspond to each other in order for it to be comfortable to sit on such a product. To calculate the required height, you need to measure the distance from the bottom of the countertop to the floor. You need to subtract 20-25 cm from the resulting indicator, and then you will get the required height.
Buy chairs with a reserve, a couple of pieces more than there are family members.
Important! This method of calculation is not suitable for models with gas lift, since they are equipped with a special mechanism that allows you to adjust the height.
Measure the height and length of the bar counter and remember that the people sitting behind it should still have room to move.
Select the material (wooden, metal, transparent, etc.)
When choosing furniture, it is extremely important to pay attention to the material from which it is made. Each material has its pros and cons. In addition, certain materials will be suitable for a certain interior style. Let's look at some of them.
Bar stools gradually moved from catering establishments to ordinary kitchens.
Natural wood. It is difficult to imagine something more traditional; this material is always in demand. A wood product can be of any shape. Wooden chairs have several advantages:
- aesthetics;
- durability;
- environmental friendliness;
- strength and reliability.
Comfortable, functional and stylish bar stools are becoming increasingly popular.
The product can be painted in different natural shades, such as wenge, vanilla, light walnut or chestnut. That is why choosing wooden furniture in accordance with the style of the space will not be difficult.
Modern bar stools can look very different.
Stainless steel options boast their durability and resistance to mechanical damage. The metal frame allows for the ergonomic design of the chair and is particularly durable.
You can be sure that sitting on such chairs will be very comfortable, and caring for the product will not be difficult.
Plastic options are also popular. Their main advantage is light weight. They are mobile and practical. Thanks to the characteristics of the material, it is possible to choose a model with a truly spectacular appearance. If you want more bright colors, you can choose furniture made of impact-resistant plastic.
In addition to their quality characteristics, they are also distinguished by their color saturation.
Additional information: Regardless of the chosen material, chairs can have soft upholstery. The seat of the product can be soft, semi-soft or hard. In the first two cases, a filler is used.
Choose a convenient design (with or without backrest, folding)
When choosing a bar furniture model, you need to take into account various design features. The model can be made with armrests and backrest or without both. If the counter plays the role of a dining table, it will be more convenient to use seats with a back and armrests. It will be comfortable to sit on such a stool, even if the meal is long.
If you don’t plan to have long gatherings at the counter, then products without additional amenities may well be suitable.
It also plays a role, will the stools be stationary in one place or are they planned to be taken out periodically if necessary? In the second case, the best option would be to purchase folding stools, which, if not needed, can be stored folded and not take up space in the kitchen.
The number of their types is so wide that it is very difficult to choose the first time.
Workflow Description
All work can be divided into two stages - preparing the elements and assembling the structure, each of them is important in its own way, so follow all the recommendations as carefully and scrupulously as possible.
Preparation
Instructions for this stage are as follows:
- It is important to choose the optimal height of the structure; this indicator must be determined in advance. Typically, the length of the legs is from 75 to 90 centimeters, depending on the height of the bar counter, so you must know at what level the tabletop will be attached.
- The size of the seat should be such that any adult can sit comfortably on it; experts recommend making the size at least 60 cm2; if it is smaller, it may be uncomfortable for large people. You should also decide on the shape of the seat, there are two main options - round and square, the first solution is more difficult to implement, since you will have to work with a jigsaw.
- To make it easier for you, we will consider the classic option - wooden bar stools without a back with a square seat. First, the seat is cut out, the finished element must be thoroughly sanded with sandpaper, we recommend paying special attention to the ends.
For grinding, you need to choose 2-3 options with different grain sizes, first the work is done with coarse sheets, then the surface is refined with finer options
- Next, the legs are cut to the required length, which are also sanded; if desired, you can bevel the inner corners of the legs, but for this it is better to use a grinder with an emery disc. It is also necessary to prepare cross members that will be attached at the bottom and under the seat itself and will serve to increase rigidity.
Advice! To make it easier to carry stools in the future, you can make an oblong slot 3-4 centimeters wide and 8-10 centimeters long in the middle of the seat. To do this, a future cutout is drawn, a hole is drilled through which a hacksaw blade is placed and cutting is made along the line.
The slot allows you to carry the product
Assembly
The process goes like this:
- First, the upper crossbars are attached along the upper edge of the legs; for this, a hole is drilled in them and the legs for a dowel, which is lubricated with glue and inserted tightly. It is important to achieve the tightest possible joints.
- The easiest way to fasten the lower crossbars is with self-tapping screws, and so that they do not interfere with each other, it is better to place the planks with a slight offset. It is better to choose self-tapping screws coated to match the color of the future impregnation.
- The finished and assembled legs are attached to the seat using corners, which are sold in furniture and construction hardware stores; the process is simple and will not cause difficulties.
Corners allow you to securely fasten the structure
- The finished product is cleaned of contaminants, if necessary, individual areas are sanded, after which the product can be coated with a protective impregnation that will protect the wood from pests and mold.
- The product prepared in this way is painted with a glazing compound to give the desired shade; a regular medium brush with natural bristles is used for the work.
Coloring is an important stage that transforms the product
Popular brands of bar stools
Among the huge number of companies and manufacturers, it’s not difficult to get lost. Which brand should you choose? We compare by quality characteristics and cost.
These are the usual bar stools with a regular back.
The Polish brand Signal boasts excellent quality at an affordable price. The design of the models of this company is harmonious and pleasing to the eye. If you want something even more affordable, go to Ikea. It is no coincidence that the wooden models Ingolf and Henriksdal are popular.
The original design of bar stools can be found in products from Louis Ghost - transparent polycarbonate products.
Varieties
The variety of products is great, and each type has its own characteristics. To choose a suitable model, consider the existing options.
By type of construction
There are three types here:
- Stool . Everyone knows what it looks like - a chair without a back. The bar stool differs only in the height of the legs. Sometimes it is equipped with a low lumbar back, which provides support, since it will not be possible to sit on such a chair for a long time. The backrest usually reaches 30 cm. Bar stools are not suitable for comfortable eating, but they are quite suitable for short-term gatherings over a snack.
- The standard design is the most familiar model. It has a backrest and a rigid or semi-rigid seat.
- A half-chair is the most comfortable type. Thanks to its design, it ensures a long comfortable pastime. Kitchen bar chairs have a high soft back and seat, as well as armrests for a more comfortable position. A semi-chair is not a cheap option, but it will undoubtedly justify its price.
According to the shape of the seat
Now you can find a seat of absolutely any shape or turn to a designer for help. The traditional shape is a circle. But modern developments have gone further, offering chairs with rectangular, square, triangular and other seat options.
The shape of the back also varies: if desired, it can be made curly by developing an original design. The main rule is compliance with the interior and, of course, convenience.
By height
We described above how to choose the height of a bar stool. Let us add that this parameter depends on the type of bar counter. It can either stand alone or be connected to a kitchen set.
By type of legs
There are four types:
- On one leg. A bar stool with one leg is considered a traditional model. The fashion for it began in America, where this chair was invented. The product has not lost its popularity to this day and is often found not only at home, but also in various establishments. When choosing a chair, you need to pay attention to the width of the support. It should approximately match the size of the seat, this ensures stability.
- With two legs. A chair with two legs is a must-have attribute of a high-tech kitchen. The product looks modern and stylish, but is not very comfortable. The design of the chair is not particularly stable, so it is not suitable for families with children.
- With three legs. The choice of a bar seat on three legs also needs to be approached responsibly. Incorrect positioning of the legs can make it unsteady, so the product should be tested before purchasing.
- With four legs. The most comfortable and reliable option for a classic-style kitchen is a four-legged bar stool. In addition to high stability, it is convenient.
Designer models
Designer models are distinguished as a separate type. Modern interiors are often decorated with unusual and original chairs, which, in addition to their practical role, also play an aesthetic role. Products are made to order, taking into account the personal preferences of the owner and the style of the kitchen.
But do not forget about common sense, since any piece of furniture should first of all be comfortable to use. Make sure that the structure stands firmly on the floor, and that the unusual shape of the legs or various decorations do not interfere with sitting.
Bar stools to match the kitchen design style
Today, manufacturers offer a wide variety of different models of stools, which can be different not only in shape, but also in style and decoration. Accordingly, there is always the opportunity to choose the right option for a specific design. Let's take a closer look at which chairs are suitable for a particular stylistic direction in design.
Choose a shape based on your preferences and overall design intent - not all types are equally suitable for certain styles.
Bar stools in loft style
More than ever, such chairs will come in handy in just such an interior. The texture and material do not matter - almost any model will fit organically. A metal frame will look good, and the base can be either simple plastic or wood with a rough texture.
We recommend buying high chairs with a height of 90-95 centimeters.
Bar stools in art nouveau style
For this style, stools with additional seat decoration using leather or fabric in pastel shades are suitable. Products with openwork backs and neat railings on the sides will also fit perfectly into the interior.
Traditional high chairs are best purchased with a footrest.
Bar stools for the kitchen in a classic style
In the classic style, all furniture is made from natural materials. As a rule, these are valuable tree species such as hevea, oak and beech. A figuratively carved back or openwork decoration would also come in handy here. Legs with elegant carvings will also look great.
The seat itself can be covered with genuine leather or natural fabrics.
Bar stools for the kitchen in the Biedermeier style
In such an interior one can feel the atmosphere of German and Austrian classics of past centuries. Products with curved backs and armrests, thin graceful curved legs, and an “aging” effect would also be relevant in this style.
The number of legs is another important selection factor. The stability and comfort of the chair depends on them.
Bar stools for a country style kitchen
For some, it may seem difficult to imagine bar stools for the kitchen in this style, however, wooden models made in the appropriate style will look very organic. There is always a place for interesting carvings, paint paintings, and folklore motifs in patterns.
The most comfortable option is chairs with four legs. They are highly resistant and very comfortable.
What do bar stools bring to a setting?
The nature of space. The appearance of bar stools can not only provide support for your kitchen interior design, but also set the mood of the space. If you place golden stools next to a counter decorated with wood, you will be able to create an elegant, sophisticated corner.
If the tabletop is furnished with aluminum accessories and eco-leather upholstery, then a simple, free environment is guaranteed. Bright furniture reflects the spirit of youth.
Work in an ensemble. If there is both a bar counter and a traditional dining table, then chairs of different heights will be required. It is better to choose similar models. This way the kitchen space will look harmonious, and individual areas will receive a unifying element.
Non-trivial solutions. Bar stools in the kitchen interior can be different. This will not prevent you from making a successful set. It’s easier to combine variations that differ in the shape of the back, legs, color, armrests and other elements. We accept a set with visual differences.
For example, one batch is made of metal, and the other is made of wood, with different height differences and configurations of components. And the upholstery palette should unite them. Products with a transparent base look great against wood-look furniture. The colorless palette is skillfully complemented by bright solutions.
Color combination of bar stools with other elements of the kitchen interior
In order for bar chairs for the kitchen to look harmonious in the interior, you need to take into account color combinations.
Modern bar stools can look completely different.
- If the style involves the use of finishing materials and furniture in natural colors, then the chairs should be selected according to the same principle.
Wood, plastic or metal are most often used as the base.
- Bright and catchy colors are suitable for modern styles, such as hi-tech, loft, modern and others. This is explained by the fact that furniture made of plastic will look appropriate in them, which cannot be said, for example, about the classic or French style.
It is better to choose metal legs, even if the top is made of plastic.
- It is important to consider the color palette of the entire furniture set. Stools may not be matched tone to tone, but should be combined and not create sharp contrasts.
The range of design possibilities is practically unlimited.
- To create a complete color ensemble, you can make color intersections. For example, the textile upholstery of such a chair will be combined with the rest of the textiles in the room, and the color of the chair frame will intersect with the color of the furniture around it.
An eco-friendly option is wooden chairs.
What types of bar stools are there for the kitchen?
The entire range of bar stools can be divided into two categories, differing in design. These are options with a back and bar stools without a back, the latter actually for the most part belong to the category of kitchen stools. Both types are otherwise similar and have the same long legs, making them taller than regular chairs and stools. It should be said that it is precisely in height that they differ from them. The second distinctive feature is the presence of a footrest; without it, sitting on such chairs is not comfortable.
Bar stools photo
It should also be said that all bar stools for the kitchen can be divided into types according to the number of legs. They come with one leg, some with 4 - these are classic models, for the most part reminiscent of a traditional chair with a back. And sometimes there are very creative models that have many supports or one entire intricately shaped support.
Bar stools photo
You can, of course, classify this furniture into types based on materials of manufacture, but there are models that can have different materials in their design - combined ones. Therefore, let's look at the different options for bar stools for the kitchen in general.
Bar stools photo
Bar stools made of metal and plastic have become widespread; models made of glass and wood can also be found on sale. Wooden bar stools can be made from both traditional species: oak, larch, and exotic ones - merbau, jatoba, irocco, etc. Such options are perfect for kitchens in a classic style. A separate item is the models made of rattan, bar stools with wicker elements, they look unusual and at the same time attractive. They will fit well into the interior of a kitchen in ethnic and oriental styles.
Wicker bar stools for the kitchen
Metal bar stools look the most stylish, because for the most part they have a chrome-plated shiny finish. What makes them an excellent furniture attribute for such styles as hi-tech, modern, loft.
There are also such chairs made of rough black metal, most often they have a vintage touch, but they also look very impressive.
Metal kitchen bar stools
Bar stools photo
The seat itself of bar stools can be hard or soft. For soft models, eco-leather is most often used; it is also not uncommon to find models made of different fabrics; there are also seats made of plush. At the same time, both leather and fabric can have any color, but it should be said that the traditional colors of the seats of bar stools are black, gray, brown, less often beige, sand, red, etc.
Bar stools for the kitchen with soft seat
Hard seats can be made of wood or plastic. If you like to have long conversations at the bar while drinking various drinks, then choose the most comfortable models. Chairs with soft seats are best suited for this.
The shape of the seat can be different, the traditional ones are round, although recently a wide variety of models of chairs with a rectangular shape have appeared.
Modern bar stools for the kitchen
There are bar stools that can be adjusted in height, this is very convenient if there are people of different heights in the family. After all, you can always adjust the height of such a chair, making it more comfortable in each specific case.
Bar stool stool photo
