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Step 1
Measure your counter height to decide the proper height of the stool. Also measure the width of the counter while you have the tape measure out to determine how wide the stools can be and how many can fit in the space.
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Step 2
Choose 24- to 26-inch high counter stools for a standard 36-inch counter height.
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Step 3
Select 30-inch bar stools for a raised eating area that measures 40 to 42 inches high.
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Step 4
Purchase higher bar stools for areas taller than 42 inches.
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Step 1
Look at your surroundings. Do you like a modern look, or are you more traditional? Make a statement with your stools by evoking a different era, such as a slick aluminum swivel stool, available in counter or bar heights, or the curvy wrought iron Milan counter stool. Check out the Home Decorators website for a variety of bar stool choices.
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Step 2
Consider your space. If you have a small area, choose a tavern-style bar stool or a saddle seat. Both types work well in small spaces.
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Step 3
Think about comfort. An upholstered stool can be much more comfortable than the hard wooden variety. Visit the Chattanooga Bar Stools website to compare upholstered stools to plain wood.
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Step 4
Decide whether you want stools with back support and arms, back support only or no support at all. If the stools are higher, backs and arms may make them a little more safe and comfortable. On the other hand, plain backless stools have several advantages, including ease of storage, price and maintenance (with fewer parts to worry about).
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Step 5
Determine whether you want to swivel or not. If you have small children, a swivel stool may not be best, as they'll quickly figure out how fast they can twirl to fly off. But while it costs more, a swivel stool aids in conversation around the breakfast bar and is fun even for the adults (just don't let them catch you twirling).
