36 Bar Stools For A Kitchen Island + Size Guide

Are you shopping for bar stools for a kitchen island or counter? Look no further because this is the only kitchen island stool guide you will ever need!

I’ll help you choose the perfect seat height, spacing and modern look for your kitchen. Plus I will make your shopping even easier with a fabulous collection of the best bar stools ranging in a wide array of styles and price points.

Bar stools can be a great addition and serve your kitchen in multiple ways beside just a fun place to sit. They can also become an amazing decorating focal point for your home kitchen as well.

So all the more important to know the guidelines before buying so you can make the best choice for your home!

Are you shopping for bar stools for a kitchen island or counter? Look no further because this is the only kitchen island stool guide you will ever need!

Choosing the right bar stools for a kitchen island is more than just about the style of the seating. You want a stool that is of high quality, comfortable, fits your space well, is the right height and cleans up easily!

DON’T MISS THIS: Speaking of kitchen islands, I have some fabulous ideas on how to decorate this focal point in your kitchen! Be sure to check out my post on these easy 8 Kitchen Island Centerpiece Ideas found HERE.

If you have already started shopping for a kitchen island, breakfast bar or basement bar that needs some stools, you may feel a tad overwhelmed with lots of questions. There’s endless options and different sizes to select from. So how do you find the perfect choice for your kitchen?

My simple guide has all the answers! Learn about al the different bar stool sizes, understand how to space them correctly, and find the most lovely styles at every price point.

Bar Stools For A Kitchen Island

If you’ve already started looking for your new kitchen bar stools, you may have noticed there are two different heights.

So let’s talk about the correct measurements you need to know before you buy!

What’s The Difference Between Bar Stools And Counter Height Stools?

There is a major difference you need to pay close attention to between a bar stool and a counter height stool – it’s the total height of the stool. So which one is the right bar stool size for your home?

Bar height stools are for a higher 42″ bar counter. Counter height stools are specifically meant to fit a lower 36″ counter height.

Bar Stool Height

The countertop on standard bar counters is usually between 40 to 42 inches high. So in order to sit comfortably, you want to select a bar stool around 28 to 30 inches tall.

Counter Stool Height

A standard countertop (including most kitchen island countertops) varies from around 36 to 39 inches. So, you want to select a counter stool that measures about 24 to 26 inches from floor to seat.

TIP TO KEEP IN MIND: You’ll want about 10″- 12″ between the top of the stool seat to the underside of the counter.

How Many Stools Fit At A Kitchen Island?

When it comes to spacing of kitchen stools, it’s important to allow enough space between stools for people to eat, drink and socialize without bumping elbows into each other.

Especially at a kitchen island or counter which is usually the busiest area in the kitchen.

So I have an easy way for you to figure this out! It’s a very simple math equation.

How To Calculate The Correct Number Of Stools For The Island:

First, measure the length of the kitchen island or counter top of seating area.
Next, divide the length by the amount of space you’d like for each seat.

Example: 76″ island (divided by) 24″ inches of space for seat (equals) 3 stools will fit.

If you choose swivel bar stools and/or stools with arms, you’ll need to add a bit more space between the seats. Here is a general size tip guide:

If the widest part of stool is between 16″-18″ allow for about 21″-22″ of space
If the widest part of stool is between 19-“22″ allow for about 24″-25” of space

A good rule of thumb is to leave 8-10 inches of seating space between each stool. This will allow people enough room to get in and out of the chair without bumping into each other.

You also want to keep in mind the spacing between the back of the bar stools and any walkways or objects like dining table furniture, cabinetry, walls, etc. Allowing for about 3 feet of space in this dining area should be adequate.

How To Choose The Perfect Bar Stools

Here are a few key elements to consider before you select your kitchen island stools or counter-height stools.

What You Need To Know Before You Buy:

YOUR STYLE – Reflect on the style of your kitchen. Do you want your stools to make a design statement or do you want a more discreet look? You want them to match your kitchen home decor or add some contrast to your kitchen?
YOUR COMFORT – If your stools will be in a busy or narrow space, consider low back or backless stools to easily tuck out of the way. But if you entertain often and want something more lounge-worthy, a great choice would be a broad-backed stool with a deep seat.
YOUR USE – It’s a good idea to keep in mind the function of the stools for your family and guests. If you have young kids, you may want to consider an easy clean-up, low-maintenance style such as leather bar stools. Wood or metal frame swivel stools would also be a great option!
YOUR SIZE – Measure the length of your island or kitchen counter. Divide according to the guidelines above to achieve the desired look and function for your kitchen.
YOUR BUDGET – Every one has one, so decide on the amount and stick to it. You will see below there is a wide range of styles listed at an affordable price of $400 or less!

FAQs About Bar and Counter Stools

To make a bar stool a comfortable seating option, look for elements such as upholstered seating, a back and arms, and a swivel feature.

For a true bar stool, the answer to this question is yes. The higher the stool, the greater the need for a footrest. There’s nothing worse than sitting on a bar stool and coming up empty when your feet fish around for a spot to perch. For counter height stools, you might be able to get by without the footrest.

Don’t forget to buy a few packs of felt chair pads. They are a good choice when it comes to saving your wood floor!

36 Statement Bar Stools For A Kitchen Island

I wanted to find you a top pick selection of bar/counter stools, so I’ve decided to split them into two kitchen island bar stools categories.

The first collection of 20 stools are more pricy, luxurious finds over $400.

And the second collection of 16 stools is more budget-friendly, looks for less at a great value price of under $400. A little something for every style and budget!

Sources are linked below each image and most are available in both bar and counter height bar stools.

Even though these stools are more reasonably priced doesn’t mean they are any less beautiful! I think I would take any of them for my kitchen, wouldn’t you?!

More Kitchen Decorating Tips

SEE ALL DECOR

If you are looking for even more kitchen decorating ideas and tips, be sure to check out these reader favorites below: (just click on the title or image to read the full post)