How to Choose the Perfect Bar Stool

Today, choosing a stool is no longer a simple or secondary decision. In the past, stools were often seen as plastic, inexpensive, and purely functional objects. There was little choice, and little attention paid to design. This perception has changed as we spend more time at home, and design culture has naturally entered the kitchen as well. Especially in open-plan spaces, the stool has become a key element: it can complete the style of the kitchen or completely disrupt it. A poorly chosen stool, especially one that feels too cheap, can break the harmony of even the most carefully designed interior. So let see together few tips to choose it well: 

The first essential aspect to consider is height.The most common stool heights are 65 cm and 75 cm, and they must always be proportional to the height of the kitchen island or counter. A stool should never be too high or too low — comfort and visual balance depend on correct proportions. However, as you may imagine height alone is not enough.

Because before choosing a stool, it is important to understand how the kitchen will be used. Will it function as a real dining space, as is common in many Italian households?
Or, as in many international lifestyles, will it be more of a design element a place to lean, enjoy a glass of wine, or share an italian aperitivo? This distinction makes a real difference.

As if the island is used daily for meals, comfort becomes essential. In this case, an upholstered stool in fabric can be the right choice. Soft materials, such as chenille or textile upholstery, add warmth and invite you to spent longer moments, for exemple the Granite stool from Kave Home, which combines comfort with a refined aesthetic can be a good choice.

If the island is mainly a social or decorative element, stools in wood, metal, or painted finishes are often more suitable. These materials are easier to maintain and particularly practical in homes with children. Brands such as The Masie or Northdeco offer clean, durable designs that remain elegant while being functional.

Let’s say that a stool is not just an accessory. It is a design element that participates in the overall balance of the space. When chosen with intention considering height, use, material, and style it becomes a natural extension of the interior, rather than a visual interruption.

Good design is always about coherence.
Even in the smallest details.