It's a lot of fun sprucing up your bar at home, especially if you add your own personal touch to it. You can get bar stools for your counter table or indoor bar to create a big impact and a new look in your space. They are high chairs with a modern aesthetic that take up less floor area compared to regular seats.
In this article, we will share our top 10 recommendations for you to choose from. We've also prepared a buying guide fact-checked by Singapore-based interior designer Jennifer Salamat to show you the factors to consider when purchasing bar stools. Plus, we've got some tips on how you can decorate your home bar. Keep on reading to find out more!
Quick List - Top Bar Stools
Jennifer Salamat is a Singapore-based Interior Designer currently working as a Lead Designer in an international company that manufactures furniture hardware. She shares the same passion for transforming ideas into beautiful, functional home design solutions. She is a dedicated individual who has been involved in planning and designing interior settings for residential and commercial spaces.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
As the name suggests, bar stools are used in pubs, lounges, or indoor bars. But you can also have them in your household, specifically in your bar or kitchen. To be able to get an accurate height, you must first consider its use and location, which will be discussed below.
A counter stool is a type of restaurant seating that is increasingly used in dining tables and kitchen counters. The majority of counter tables are 36 inches above the floor, so it's best to match them with stools that are 24 to 27 inches tall. With this measurement, you will be able to sit in a more comfortable position and also be able to reach the table surface.
Bar tables, in contrast to counter tables, are typically 40 to 42 inches in height. As a result, bar tables necessitate a taller chair, and the optimal height for the latter is in the range of 29 to 30 inches. This way, you can still get to the bar counter without any difficulties.
Aside from height, another important factor to consider is if you'll have enough room to sit comfortably even with your legs crossed. Although counter and bar tables have specified dimensions, there is still a possibility that their structure will not conform to those dimensions.
If this happens, you can opt for adjustable stools that allow you to change the height by simply pressing a lever. And if your table isn't the standard size, choose bar stools that are 10 inches lower. For those who bought the chair and table separately, you can still look for stores that can customize its height.
Footrests aren't a necessary feature on all barstools, but they can help stabilize the chair. This will also make getting in and out of the stool much easier. The width of the footrest varies depending on the structure, but most are 14-15 inches in size. When it comes to design, there are bar stools that are more detailed, but most are built of the same material as the frame.
A comfortable distance between each chair allows you or your customers or guests to move freely. This will also tell you how many chairs you need. For simple bar stools, there should be a 6-inch gap if the chairs are 16-18 inches wide. Meanwhile, those with swivels or armchairs should have 8-10 inches of space in between them.
From there, measure the table's length to determine how many chairs will fit, including the spaces. Proper spacing is essential, especially for floor-mounted bar stools, which cannot be adjusted once installed. Your bar chairs should not be overcrowded so that everyone can sit comfortably while enjoying the party.
Now that you've determined the proper table height and the quantity of chairs to purchase, it's time to choose which type will work best for your bar table or counter top based on its construction.
The traditional full-back bar stools are ideal for providing extra support when sitting for long periods of time, whether it be for breakfast or social gatherings. This option is good for families as it can prevent your children from tipping backward. However, this type is bulkier than others and may not be suitable for small kitchens.
These stools fall somewhere in between a full-back chair and a backless chair. Low-back stools not only provide back support but also appear less bulky and take up less visual space in your bar or kitchen. This style is also available in more modern designs and can be paired with even the most basic table designs.
The backless bar stool has a sleek design that can complement modern interiors. This choice is great for a small kitchen because it takes up less space and looks more organized. However, since it lacks additional back or side support, it may not be the most comfortable option when you or your guest sit for a long time.
If you want to create a cozy atmosphere in your home bar, pick a bar stool with armrests. This type has back support, which makes it more comfortable and allows you to sit for longer periods of time.
It is also wider than usual, so it takes up more space. Also, keep in mind that you may have difficulty getting out of the bar stool with an armrest. Nonetheless, it's a great piece to add both comfort and aesthetics to your space.
Swivel bar stools can swing around 360 degrees since they are not permanently attached to the base. With this option, you can quickly get seated and also get off because you only need to swivel out of the area. Some brands combine this feature with an adjustable height for convenience.
Bar stools are available in an array of designs and can be made with a lot of different materials. In this section, get to know the different materials that will fit your interiors. You can choose from wood, metal, and plastic.
If you want to maintain the classic appearance of your home, choose wooden bar stools. Some have carvings that give it an antique appearance, while others have a contemporary look that goes well with most interiors.
Wooden bar stools are a long-lasting option, especially if they are made of hardwood such as Acacia or Narra. This material is available in a variety of wood stain selections to suit practically any design aesthetic.
Metal bar stools have an industrial design that goes well with most room aesthetics. When combined with other materials such as wood, it creates a sleek and minimalist look. Also, they frequently come with rubber caps to protect the floor from scratches.
You can assure longevity with this material, as it is sturdy and can be used in both indoor and outdoor settings. However, since it's quite heavy, it can be difficult to move around.
Plastic stools, like metal stools, have a modern aesthetic and are ideal for outdoor bars. They are far less expensive than other materials and typically have adjustable heights and pedestal bases or legs, assuring durability even when used outside the house.
However, they can also be used indoors. And because they are easy to clean, plastic bar stools are a fantastic choice for busy parents. You can even utilize these chairs in your breakfast nook as you serve almusal to your children!
Aside from armrests and full-back bar stools, cushioned bar stools are another way to make your chairs more comfortable. This type of chair also enhances the aesthetic value of the area by adding texture, color, and pattern to your space. If you want well-cushioned bar stools, choose leather, microfiber, or polyester material as these are easy to clean.
On the other hand, bar stools without cushions are great for commercial use since they can withstand wear and tear, saving you money on maintenance. They are typically made from metal or wood, which simply ensures their longevity. Unlike upholstered bar seats, you wouldn't have to worry about stains with this one.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | design story Cornet Bar Stool | ![]() | A Customizable, Industrial Piece | |
2 | Stacked Furniture Icon Barstool | ![]() | Sleek Half-Back Chair for Minimalist Spaces | |
3 | Cofta Jazz Bar Stool | ![]() | A Budget-Friendly Chair That You Can Place Anywhere | |
4 | BLIMS Fine Furniture Kabo Barstool | ![]() | Features a Contemporary Design and Extra Back Support | |
5 | MOD Living Tolix Metal Barstool | ![]() | Metal Barstool That Can Be Used Both Indoors and Outdoors | |
6 | Solid Wood Bar Stool | ![]() | A Must-Have Item for a Team Kahoy Aesthetic | |
7 | Six-Grid Bar Stools|Set of Two | ![]() | When Comfort Meets Style | |
8 | Adjustable Bar Stool|Set of Two | ![]() | Cozy Backrest for a More Comfortable Drinking Experience | |
9 | Jecams Lucy Wire Bar Stool | ![]() | Add Texture to Your Bar Area With a Wired Metal Chair | |
10 | Furniture Source Vaka Bar Chair | ![]() | A Foldable Bar Stool for Outdoor Parties |
If you're on the hunt for a real statement piece, look no further than this Cornet Bar Stool from the design story. This chair has solid oak seats with steel tube legs inspired by bicycle racks. It is definitely a simple but stylish option that will look great in any setting.
Since this is available in 26" and 30" seat heights, you can have it in your breakfast nook or your indoor bar. Its colors are fully customizable from top to bottom, allowing you to design the perfect chair for your home. You can select one of three wood stains for the seat: solid black, oiled oak, or smoke oiled oak.
If you are still on the fence, it is worth noting that it has rubber caps that won't scratch your floor—a feature you'll surely benefit from! Although it is sold individually and is a bit of a splurge, you can definitely keep this piece for years to come.
For a sleek, clean, and minimalist style, look no further than Stacked Furniture's Icon Barstool! This chair comes in two sizes, allowing you to find the ideal height for your counter table or home bar. Its half-backrest provides support to your mid and lower back, preventing fatigue.
This bar stool is designed to stand out with its metal legs covered in wood stain and an easy-to-clean polypropylene seat, making it ideal for any home. This is available in a wide range of colors, so you can find a great match for your existing interiors. Another option to order is to send them a DM on their Instagram page.
Whether it be for home, office, or restaurant use, you would surely love this minimalist bar stool that's made from durable plastic. You'll also be pleased to know that it is very easy to clean, and is lightweight so you can move it around easily.
This chair has a simple design that is very functional because of its wide seat that provides a comfortable position. You can also convert this into a regular-sized chair by simply removing the bottom section, making it ideal for outdoor settings as well. There are three colors to choose from: green, red, and white to match your interiors.
Reviewers have nothing but praise for this product, as it was packaged properly and is of great quality. These chairs also have protection pads for each leg to keep your floors scratch-free.
This Kabo Barstool from BLIMS stands out from the rest, thanks to its steel frame with a gray finish paired with a soft cushion. You'll fall in love with this barstool right away because of its full-back that can provide comfort.
The frame has a powder-coated finish that protects it from rust, corrosion, and stains. This chair, with its neutral color and classic design, could be your go-to piece for any gathering! You can place this near your home bar or kitchen counter and enjoy long conversations with friends.
However, keep in mind that this is 41" tall, so you may need a higher counter table. You won't have to worry about getting out of the chair because it is equipped with a metal footrest that you can step on.
This Tolix Metal Barstool from MOD Living has everything you can ask for—it's sleek, sophisticated, and most of all, budget-friendly! It features metal legs that ensure the sturdiness of the bar stool and also comes with leg glides to prevent damages on the floor.
The footrest is made from high-quality galvanized steel that is durable and can give you a comfortable foothold. Additionally, it has a stackable feature that comes in handy after the party is done. You can just put them away neatly and they won't take up any floor space, making cleaning the area a breeze.
There are six different colors to choose from, any of which would be a perfect match for the rest of your interior. If you need more back support, you can purchase this barstool with a backrest.
If you want a wooden bar stool, we think this Korean-inspired chair is hard to beat! This is perfect if you want to open a café and pair it with wooden countertops in your lounge or dining area. Its modern design is Instagrammable and will undoubtedly impress your customers!
This is available in three sizes, so you can get it for your taller countertops. You can get this in four different colors and you won't have to worry about the foam wearing out because it isn't permanently attached to its base. So, you can simply replace or reupholster it, and you will be able to alter its colors as well.
Users of this product recommend it because of its sturdy appearance and feel, as well as its aesthetic that is simple to incorporate into their spaces. Take note, however, that this is only available for preorder, so it may take some time before it arrives at your doorstep, but it is well worth the wait!
Because of its chic, contemporary design paired with a comfortable foam seat, this set of two bar stools brings both functionality and style to your space. Aside from that, each stool has a padded seat and back that is covered in faux leather and is extremely cozy!
Since it has armrests where you can relax your arms, this would also be an ideal office chair if you plan to work at your counter table. Its adjustable height and 360-degree swivels allow you to sit on the chair with ease. Furthermore, this has a 150kg carrying capacity. Users of this product recommend it because it is easy to assemble and comes in different colors.
This set of two barstools have an ergonomic half-back design that allows you to sit comfortably while drinking. Its stitched faux leather back adds an elegant touch to any room and can be paired with statement wallpaper and fun colors. This affordable option shows us that adding style to your home doesn't have to be expensive!
It also has an airlift mechanism that adjusts from 24"to 32" high, allowing you to use it anywhere from a dining table to a bar. You'd also have plenty of legroom, thanks to this feature. You can choose from three different colors: black, white, and wine red, all of which are quite easy to incorporate into any interior or decor.
Reviewers of this barstool stated it is worth purchasing because of the comfort it provides. They also appreciated its ability to glide around due to its 360-degree swivel. For an affordable option that's equally stylish, add these chairs to your cart!
Looking for something that would level up your home bar? Look no further than this Lucy Wire Barstool from Jecams! It features a 30-inch seat height, making it ideal to use for your bar counters. Your visitors would surely appreciate its wire metal design, which is an excellent way to bring a luxe feel and more texture to any space.
To ensure product quality, it comes with a one-year warranty. You will also have the option of selecting one of three colors: black, white, or red. Furthermore, this barstool has two glide caps on each side to protect the floor from scratches and other damages.
This foldable bar stool from Furniture Source is simple to assemble and pairs well with high patio bar tables with umbrellas, making it ideal for your outdoor space. It has a footrest to help you get in and out of the stool, as well as a backrest to support your back.
Besides this white color, it is also available in black. Furthermore, it is constructed of plastic and metal materials that are easy to clean and that can withstand the wear and tear that comes with frequent use. When it's time to pack up, you can simply unfold it and store it in your storage area.
Don't be afraid to be creative with your design choice. While bar stools are generally not the centerpiece of your home, those with the right designs can greatly enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of your kitchen or dining room.
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
The good thing about bar stools is that there's one for everybody! In the Philippines, you can find bar stools ranging from around Php 1000 for affordable brands and upwards of Php 9000 for high-end brands.
Set up your own fun and stylish home bar by following these useful tips:
The exact height of a bar stool depends on the height of the bar top. Bar tops typically have a height of about 40 to 42 inches, so a good bar stool should be about 28 to 30 inches tall.
Setting up your home bar does not stop with the selection of bar stools and counters. You would also need to purchase a few other items to complete the setup. For example, you might need an ice maker for cold beverages, a coaster to prevent watermarks, or a jigger and some glasses to elevate the experience. Check out our top picks below!
Author: Jennylyn D. Salao
Editor: Aprille Jarcia
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: design story|Cornet Bar Stool
No. 2: Stacked Furniture|Icon Barstool
No. 3: Cofta|Jazz Bar Stool
No. 4: BLIMS Fine Furniture|Kabo Barstool
No. 5: MOD Living|Tolix Metal Barstool
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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