How much space between bar stool and counter

Sometime last year we published two separate blog posts covering the topics you're about to read here. The first post was mainly about the height and width of bar stools. The second post was based on spacing ideals. Well, we decided to combine some of the tips in those blog posts and create one go-to guide for both size and spacing of kitchen stools! Of course, keeping content fresh and updated is important- this is why we decided to revisit these old topics and shake them up.

So, what should the measurements of my bar stools be?

Quite simply, it's up to you. The size of bar stool you go with is going to depend on your individual desires and the requirements of your home. However, we can advise you on the different measurements available and what they are best suited to. It's definitely important to get the size right as the wrong stool can be really impractical or even uncomfortable! If your stool is too high then you'll be slouching and hurt your back. If your stool is too low then you won't be able to reach up! We've put together an easy guide to the various sizes of bar stools so you can be clued up in no time:

Height of a bar stool

There are various heights when it comes to bar stool measurements so make sure you pay attention. We're going to be discussing the following types: counter stools, bar-height stools, extra-tall bar stools and adjustable height stools. Counter stools are the most common type to find in the home and have a height range of 58-72cm. On the other hand, bar height stools begin at 74cm and can go up to 82cm. These tend to be found at taller breakfast bars that are above a standard kitchen counter height. Alternatively, if you've installed a commercial-style bar or are looking for stools for your restaurant, you might prefer an extra-tall bar stool. These measure between 84 and 92cm. Finally, if you're not sure what size would be best, it's best to go with an adjustable height stool. This decision will ensure that it will fit under any standard counter but also be versatile to change.

Depth and backrest height of the stool

The depth of a stool is important to consider. On average, a stool has a depth of 40cm. However, bear in mind that a bar stool with a backrest can add between 5 and 12 cm to the depth! When deciding if you'd like a backrest or how tall this backrest should be, you should consider the space where your stool will stand. If you are fitting bar stools into a smaller room then large backrests can make it feel even more cramped. This is the same when fitting in stools with armrests. Although, if you've got the space, it's definitely more comfortable to have armrests! So, if you're going to be sitting for longer periods of time then perhaps consider this.

How should I be spacing my bar stools?

So, as we've just mentioned, you really have to consider space when placing your bar stools. There are several things to think about here and you might be surprised how much there is!

Give your legs some space

Of course, it's important to make sure you've got enough legroom wherever you're going to be sat. If you're not particularly tall, then bear in mind taller guests who might not be seated comfortably! As a rule of thumb, there should be around 23-28cm space in between your lap and the counter. This will give you adequate room to cross your legs and avoid feeling trapped.

Spacing between bar stools

Although the average seat width is 40cm, this can be increased up to 50cm if it has arms. This could impact how many stools you need to buy to fit them comfortably in your space. Try to leave around 15cm space in between each bar stool when placing them around your counter or breakfast bar. This will allow enough room to turn and eat or drink without feeling squeezed.

How much space should there be between the stool and counter?

As we mentioned earlier, the depth of an average is around 40cm but can go up to around 50cm. There is no correct way to position a bar stool but if you have a small room it can be beneficial to store your stools under the counter. This would require the seat depth to be a similar or smaller measurement to the counter. Additionally, it's probably best to avoid backrests so that this doesn't hinder the bar stool from sliding under the counter. Alternatively, if you've got plenty of room then this might not be something you have to consider.

In this article, we provide a comprehensive bar stool buying guide, but for now, let’s start with the main question in hand – how high should my bar stools be? For the quick answer, check out the bar stool size chart below.

Bar stool size chart 

Counter height stool measurements 

SHOP - Stoker Bar Stool 72cm  /  Stoker Counter Stool 65cm

The standard height for most counter height stools is between 65cm – 75cm. Ensure when pairing with a kitchen counter, the measurement from the top of the counter stool to the underside of the surface is between 15cm and 25cm.

For instance, if your kitchens surface height is 90cm (underside), ensure your kitchen stools measure in at between 65cm – 75cm.

Bar stool height measurements

SHOP - Louis Brass Bar Stool

The standard height for most bar stools is between 75cm – 85cm. When pairing with a tall or commercial bar, ensure the measurement from the top of the bar stool to the underside of the surface is between 20cm – 30cm.

For instance, if your bar height is 105cm (underside), ensure your bar stools measure in at between 75cm – 85cm. 

Bar stool height for 90cm counter

SHOP - Louis Gold Bar Stool

The standard height countertop for most domestic kitchens is 90cm. Look to pair with stools that are no less than 15cm and no more than 25cm from the top of the stool to the underside of the counter.

For instance, the correct bar stool height for a 90cm counter would measure in between 65cm and 75cm in height.

Bar stool spacing dimensions

Before you make your purchase, you should pay a mind to the correct spacing of your bar stools to prevent them from looking too overcrowded or too sparse. Moreover, bar stools positioned too closely together will mean you feel claustrophobic at the dinner table as well.

Space your bar stools 15cm apart as a minimum and no more than 40cm to achieve the optimum aesthetic and comfort.

Backless or backrest bar stools – which should you choose?

SHOP - Stoker Gold Counter Stool With Backrest
 

Whether you’re relaxing with the family around the kitchen breakfast bar or catching up with emails whilst perched aside the kitchen counter, your kitchen stools should be there to keep you comfortable during prolonged periods of use.
Choosing the correct style of bar stool to provide the support you need depends on its usage.

Professionals that work from home whilst seated at the countertop for sustained periods should opt for a backrest. A backrest will aid good posture due to an upright, more ergonomic seating position. It will also provide a little more comfort during long sessions. If, however, your daily bar stool usage consists of an evening meal alone, a backless bar stool will more than suffice.

Hard vs comfortable bar stools

The biggest difference between hard and comfortable bar stools is often the appearance. Soft squidgy stools are comfortable over prolonged periods but can so often look a little bulky and cumbersome in the home.

Hard bar stools (often wooden) can look far sleeker, minimalistic and more stylish but can become uncomfortable after a while. It’s a trade-off.

Roughly define your daily usage and go from there. For a couple of hours per session and over, opt for a padded version. For anything less, you should be fine with a wooden bar stool.

Bar stool legroom dimensions

If your breakfast bar is hollow underneath, you have nothing to worry about here – skip to the next point. If, however, you have a solid wall beneath the surface you may want to read on.

To maintain sufficient space beneath the bar or countertop for your legs to rest comfortably, aim to leave between 30cm – 35cm from the front of the bar stool to the upright where your knees will rest. Ensure if you are designing your own breakfast bar to leave a similar amount of space from the upright to the tip of the kitchen surface. Any less than a 30cm gap will mean you will have to sit further back, away from the action.

You’re all set!

SHOP - Louis Adjustable Bar Stool

By now you should be well equipped to confidently purchase your selection of beautiful new bar stools. Head over to our website now and browse our carefully curated collection of handmade stools. Alternatively, if you need more information of bar stool options, check out our blog post - 

How much room should you have between bar stool and counter?

What is the proper stool height for a 36 inch counter?