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Outfit Your Kitchen With the Best Bar Stool Chairs

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By Old House Journal Review Team
Last updated: 21 Feb 2023

Are you on the hunt for the perfect bar stool chair that’s comfortable and stylish? If you have a tall bar counter or island, then a regular kitchen chair won’t be enough to seat you at the perfect height. Grabbing a couple of barstools will not only increase your kitchen’s seating capacity but it’s also a great way to add some chicness to your space. These versatile furniture pieces are ergonomic, and convenient, and come in a variety of styles.

We’ve put together a list of the top bar chairs in 2023. These selections are great for any occasion — from casual countertop lunches to elegant dinner parties. We have included options for every budget and home style, so you’re sure to find a barstool that will work in your kitchen.

Best Overall
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Maven Lane Bar Stool Chair
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Most Elegant
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COSTWAY Bar Stool Chair
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Most Stylish
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VASAGLE Bar Stool Chair
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Most Sturdy
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Homelegance Bar Stool Chair
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Most Comfortable Seats
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BestOffice Bar Stool Chair
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A Buying Guide for the Best Bar Stool Chairs

Choosing bar stools for your kitchen can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it’s important to take the necessary steps to make sure that whatever chair you select fits your space and needs. To help you make the right decision, here is a buyer’s guide for finding your perfect barstool match.

Things to Consider Before Buying Bar Stool Chairs

Height

Height is an important consideration when shopping for this type of seating. Look for bar chairs that are appropriate for your counter height. Adjustable stools are a great option if you need to accommodate people of different heights.

Width

A good seat should be wide enough to provide adequate comfort without taking up too much space in your kitchen. For added convenience, considers chairs that are easy to move out of the way by sliding under your bar counter.

Material

Ensure the barstool is constructed with high-quality materials that are made to withstand daily wear and tear. Popular materials used in these types of chairs include metal, plastic, wood, and leather. Each option has its benefits and drawbacks so it is important to first consider your needs in terms of style and durability.

Style

The style of your barstool chairs should coordinate with the existing décor and furniture in your kitchen. If you prefer a more contemporary look, try selecting bar stools made from metal or plastic with sleek lines and modern designs. Those who prefer a more classic look may opt for wooden stools with a more traditional design or padded chairs with softer curves and shapes. 

Comfort

Always strive for comfort when it comes to kitchen chairs. Comfortable barstools may have backrests, armrests, and swivel features that make sitting more enjoyable. These types of features can help reduce fatigue while seated for extended periods. 

Footrests

If possible, look for a stool with a footrest so you can elevate your feet while seated. This can provide some extra comfort, reduce fatigue, and help prevent leg cramps. However, be careful not to choose one that is too high as this could place you in an uncomfortable position that causes strain.  

Support

Make sure the frame is sturdy and strong enough to support your weight without wobbling or shaking. After all, you don’t want to create an unsafe situation or cause discomfort. Look for frames made from strong materials like steel which can provide extra stability while still looking stylish with your kitchen décor. 

Weight capacity

Always check the manufacturer’s weight capacity before making a purchase. Some stools may not be able to handle heavy weights safely and comfortably over long periods. Getting a chair with an inappropriate weight capacity could lead to premature wear or even breakage.

Comparing the Finest Bar Stool Chair in 2023

1

Maven Lane Bar Stool Chair

– Best Overall
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The Maven Lane Pullman Bar Stool Chairs are a timeless addition to any home. The durable kiln-dried hardwood frame is constructed with mortise and tenon joinery to ensure lasting quality and support. The 30-inch height is perfect for kitchen island counters and bar spaces alike. Those who enjoy classic designs will love the hand-applied nailhead trim, intricately carved details, and precise craftsmanship. For added comfort and utility, the swivel feature allows for smooth 180-degree rotation.

If you’re looking for an elegant and comfortable addition to your kitchen or living space, this bar stool chair is an excellent choice. The premium upholstery provides maximum comfort while the classic design makes it appear more sophisticated. Perfect for any modern or traditional kitchen, this chair is a great way to add both comfort and style to your home. This is also our top overall choice due to the reliable construction and convenient swivel feature.

Pros
  • Well-built and sturdy 
  • Swivel bucket-seat design 
  • High quality at an affordable price 
  • Comfortable to sit on 
Cons
  • Height may not fit everyone’s needs
2

COSTWAY Bar Stool Chair

– Most Elegant
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Give your kitchen the feel of a cozy bistro or coffee house with these COSTWAY Bar Stool Chairs. Their vintage and elegant appearance creates an inviting atmosphere that any visitor can appreciate. The seats and backs are cushioned with soft sponge foam for superior comfort while the PVC upholstery makes them easy to clean and maintain. 

The 360-degree swivel design allows you and your guests to freely move while communicating no matter where you’re seated. Each stool also has thoughtfully designed foot pads to prevent sliding and keep your floor free from scratches. Combining style, function, and convenience, this barstool is a must-have for any kitchen. With their high-quality construction and thoughtful design, you can be sure these chairs will last for many years to come.

Pros
  • Sturdy and comfortable
  • Upscale and sophisticated look
  • Lightweight and easy to move
  • Has a swivel feature
Cons
  • Not the most long-lasting product
3

VASAGLE Bar Stool Chair

– Most Stylish
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Those seeking tall, rustic bar stools should check out VASAGLE’s Bar Stool Chairs. These industrial bar chairs offer both stability and comfort. The seat base is reinforced and the non-slip pads increase friction on the floor, allowing each stool to support up to 220 lbs. To add to that, the seat has a wide 14.6-inch diameter and a built-in footrest provides additional comfort. The curved backrest is ergonomically designed to provide steady support and prevent fatigue.

Adding to the appeal of these bar stools is their rustic charm. They feature a traditional brown finish and matte black frame complemented by rivet detailing that will add a rustic industrial vibe to your dining room, kitchen, or home bar. Assembly is also a breeze thanks to the numbered parts and easy-to-follow instructions.

Pros
  • Labeled parts for easy assembly 
  • Stylish and aesthetically pleasing 
  • Circular and steady seat
Cons
  • Gets wobbly and squeaky after some use
4

Homelegance Bar Stool Chair

– Most Sturdy
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The Homelegance Bar Stool Chairs are an ideal choice for any dining space. This stylish set of chairs has all the features of a transitional look and is designed to match any décor. The black-finished metal frame is both durable and elegant while the dark brown faux leather provides adds an air of sophistication to any room. These chairs give superior comfort and support with their upholstered back and foam-padded seat cushions. They even have a built-in footrest to give your feet a resting place as you enjoy dinner or conversation.

With a weight capacity of 250 lbs, these barstools can accommodate a variety of different sizes and body types. They offer optimal style, functionality, and usability in one beautiful package. Whether you’re looking for dining chairs to accompany a new bartop, or just need additional seating around the house, this set has got you covered.

Pros
  • Very comfortable to sit on 
  • Perfect bar counter height
  • Sturdy and beautiful finish 
  • Great quality for the price 
Cons
  • Cushioning wears down fast
5

BestOffice Bar Stool Chair

– Most Comfortable Seats
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The BestOffice Bar Stool Chairs have been carefully crafted to combine style, durability, and human-centric design into one modern package. With a weight capacity of up to 250 lbs., these are some of the sturdiest chairs on the market. The adjustable height ensures that you can accommodate guests of any height with ease, while the padded seats provide comfort and relaxation.

Their metal frame is robust and durable, built using heavy-duty chrome, and lined with PU Leather foam. The chairs sit on a high-intensity pneumatic rod that rotates 360 degrees for maximum mobility. For extra comfort, the chair has a built-in footrest, so you can lean back and relax. The PU leather and steel chrome base make are easy to clean, so your chair will look like new for years to come. These bar stools come ready to assemble in less than 10 minutes with all the accessories included.

Pros
  • Easy and fast assembly 
  • Great quality for the price
  • Incredibly comfortable cushions
Cons
  • A little shaky and unstable

People Also Asked

Q: Are bar stool chairs comfortable to sit in?

A: Yes, bar stool chairs can be comfortable to sit in depending on their design and construction. Look for models with backrests, padded seats, armrests, or footrests that provide extra comfort while seated. Plus, adjustable heights can make them even more comfortable by allowing you to customize the height of your seat relative to your kitchen counter. 

Q: What materials should I look for when choosing a bar stool?

A: Look for materials that are both durable and comfortable to sit on, such as vinyl, leather, wood, or metal. Fabrics like canvas or linen can add extra comfort to your seat as well as an aesthetically pleasing look. Make sure to pick a material that is easy to clean and maintain so you can keep your chair looking new for years to come.

Q: Are there height restrictions that should be taken into consideration when getting a bar chair?

A: Yes. Make sure to measure the distance between your kitchen counter and the floor so you can get a chair in the right height range — usually between 28-33 inches tall. Together with an adjustable height mechanism, this will ensure that you’re able to sit at your kitchen counter comfortably while seated. 

Q: Do I need any special tools to assemble a barstool?

A: No, you usually don’t need any special tools to assemble a bar stool as most will come with all the necessary parts and hardware. The instruction manual should walk you through each step needed for assembly depending on which model you’re working with.

Q: How much do bar stool chairs usually cost?

A: The cost of a bar chair depends on which model you go for but generally they range from around $50-$200. The price can increase if you choose luxury models with special features like adjustable height settings and built-in storage space underneath the seat.

Q: Are there any safety features built into these chairs?

A: Many bar stools come with safety features like non-slip grips or skid-resistant pads on the legs that prevent accidental slipping or sliding. Some may come with adjustable footrests or other ergonomic features that help prevent injury due to incorrect posture or fatigue.

Q: Is the bar stool chair easy to clean and maintain?

A: Yes, most stools are fairly easy to clean since they are usually constructed with low-maintenance materials such as vinyl, leather, wood, or metal. You can simply wipe them down with a damp cloth every now and then if needed. Those with cushions typically have covers that can be removed and washed separately.

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By Old House Journal Review Team
The Old House Journal Review Team’s product reviews and in-depth guides are here to help you restore, repair, update, and decorate your home. The content is created by The Old House Journal Review Team. The Old House Journal editorial staff is not involved. Old House Journal is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
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