Bar vs. Counter Height Stools

Measure the height of your counter or bar top before purchasing a stool.

When purchasing stools for your home you must consider style, comfort and, most importantly, the height of the stool. Bar stools are taller than counter stools.

Average Height of Counters

The average kitchen counter or table top is 35 to 37 inches high, which requires a counter stool that is approximately 23 to 28 inches in height, from floor to seat. This stool is called a counter height stool.

Average Height of Bar

A bar stool is too high to be used in conjunction with a kitchen counter. You won't be able to get your knees underneath the counter. If you have a bar in your home, which is generally 40 to 42 inches in height, you need to couple that with a bar stool that is between 29 and 32 inches in height. These stools are referred to as bar height stools.

Space

If you are debating how many stools you can line up at the kitchen counter or bar consider the standard rule that dictates that you need to allow 26 and 30 inches of space between the centers of each seat. If you get stools that swivel or have arms you will need even more space to prevent people from feeling cramped.

Options

Stools can have padded seats or wood or metal seats. Some consumers prefer leather seats whereas others opt for upholstered seats. Stools can have a back or come backless. Some stools swivel while others are stationary.

References

• Buying Bar Stools: Buying Guide
• Bar Stools: Bar and Counter Stools
• Counter Stools Select: Largest Selection of Counter Stools