Counter Stool vs Bar Stool: How to Choose the Right Height
The main difference between a counter stool and a bar stool is the seat height. Counter stools suit lower kitchen counters and islands, while bar stools are designed for taller surfaces.
The right choice depends on your counter’s measurements. Before choosing a stool, measure the height of the surface and check how much space is available underneath.
1. Measure your counter first
Measure vertically from the floor to the top of your kitchen island, counter or bar.
As a starting point, allow approximately 25–30 cm between the seat and the top of the counter. The table below shows how this translates into seat heights.
| Counter height | Suggested seat height |
|---|---|
| 90 cm | 60–65 cm |
| 95 cm | 65–70 cm |
| 100 cm | 70–75 cm |
| 105 cm | 75–80 cm |
| 110 cm | 80–85 cm |
These ranges are a starting guide. A thick worktop, drawer, or support rail can reduce the space available for your legs, so always check the clearance beneath the counter as well.
When comparing products, look for the seat height. On a stool with a backrest, the overall height is a different measurement.
2. What stool height suits a 90 cm kitchen island?
For a kitchen island measuring 90 cm from the floor to the top, a seat height of approximately 60–65 cm is a useful starting point.
For example, a 61 cm seat leaves a 29 cm difference between the seat and the countertop. A 71 cm seat leaves only 19 cm at the same counter, giving you considerably less room.
This is why choosing by the name “bar stool” or “kitchen stool” alone is not enough. Check the measurements of the specific height option before ordering.
3. Choosing a wooden seat, upholstery or a backrest
Once you have established the height, consider how you will use the stool.
For breakfasts, longer meals or working at the kitchen island, you may prefer a backrest. A backless stool can be easier to tuck beneath the counter, provided its seat and legs fit within the available space.
A carved wooden seat, a flat seat, and an upholstered seat each feel different. Consider the shape of the seat, the support you prefer, and the care each material requires.
A footrest is also worth checking, especially on taller stools where your feet will not reach the floor.
These features depend on the individual model. A bar stool does not necessarily have less support or comfort than a counter stool.
4. Check the width and space around each stool
Seat height is only one part of the fit. Check the seat width, the footprint of the legs and, where relevant, the height of the armrests.
The legs may extend beyond the edge of the seat. Allow space between neighbouring stools so people can sit down, move and get up comfortably.
Measure the usable length of your counter and note the position of any supporting legs or cabinets. Do not calculate the number of stools from the seat width alone.
5. Before you order
Check these measurements against the model you have selected:
- Counter height, measured from the floor to the top.
- Clear space beneath the countertop.
- Seat height of the selected option.
- Seat width and the footprint of the legs.
- Overall height and armrest height, if applicable.
Explore our solid wood stools for kitchen islands to compare models.
If you are unsure which height to choose, contact us with the height of your counter and the clear space underneath. A photo showing the counter and its supports can also help us advise you.
