Ask Joshua: What’s the Difference Between Counter Stools and Bar Stools?

Hi Joshua,

I recently purchased my first home, and I'm excited to start furnishing it. Right now, I'm shopping for stools for my kitchen island, but I've run into a problem.

Some stores sell counter stools, while others sell bar stools. At first, I thought they were just different names for the same type of stool, but now I'm realizing they're actually different heights. I don't want to order the wrong ones and end up with stools that are either too short or too tall for my kitchen island.

What's the difference between counter stools and bar stools, and how do I know which size is right for my kitchen?

Thanks,

Erica – Boise, Idaho

Sleek mid-century modern style kitchen designed by virtual interior designer Joshua Jones of JJones Design Co. featuring counter stools at a kitchen island.

Hi Erica,

First of all, congratulations on your new home!

Counter stools and bar stools may look very similar, but the biggest difference is the seat height. Choosing the correct height will make your kitchen island much more comfortable for everyday use.

In most homes, a standard kitchen countertop or kitchen island is 36 inches high. For that height, you'll want counter stools, which typically have a seat height of 24 to 26 inches. This gives you enough legroom to sit comfortably while eating, working, or gathering around the island.

A bar stool, on the other hand, is designed for a 42-inch-high bar, with a typical seat height of 28 to 30 inches. If you use bar stools at a standard-height kitchen island, they'll usually sit too high and won't be comfortable.

Before purchasing any stools, I always recommend measuring from the floor to the underside of your countertop or island rather than relying only on the product description. While most manufacturers follow standard sizing, not every company labels their stools the same way. One brand's counter stool may have a slightly different seat height than another's.

You'll also want to leave about 10 to 12 inches between the seat and the underside of the countertop so everyone has enough legroom. If you're shopping online, double-check the seat height listed in the product specifications before placing your order.

The height is only part of the decision. You'll also want to think about how you'll use the stools every day. Stools with backs are generally more comfortable for longer meals, swivel stools make it easier to get in and out, and upholstered seats can add extra comfort if your family spends a lot of time gathered around the kitchen island.

Taking a few extra minutes to measure before you buy can save you the hassle of returning stools that don't fit. Once you've confirmed the correct height, you can focus on finding a style that complements your kitchen and works well for your lifestyle.

If you'd like help selecting the perfect counter stools or bar stools for your kitchen, I'd love to help through my virtual interior design services.

Warmly,

Joshua Jones

Have interior design related questions? You can ask Joshua here.