Counter Stool or Bar Stool? Why the Difference Matters.
It’s one of those quiet details that defines how a space feels — and functions. The silhouette of a stool, the curve of its back, the craftsmanship in its finish — all of it matters. But if the height is wrong? None of it quite lands. We see it often: a beautifully designed stool that doesn’t quite work, simply because it’s mismatched with the surface it’s paired with. And the difference usually comes down to one thing: counter height vs. bar height.
Here’s the distinction :
Counter stools are designed for kitchen islands and lower-height breakfast bars — surfaces typically around 90–95cm high. Seat height: usually 65–68cm.
Bar stools are made for taller bars or standing-height tables — around 105–110cm high. Seat height: generally 75–78cm. That 10cm may seem negligible, but it makes all the difference — visually, ergonomically, and in terms of comfort. A stool that’s too tall feels awkward; too short, and the proportions are off. Neither is ideal.
Why it matters:
The right height allows for that effortless moment — coffee at the island, drinks at the bar, a shared plate in the early evening — where the furniture fades and the experience takes over. It’s not just about fit. It’s about flow.
Our tip:
Before choosing a stool, measure your counter height and allow for roughly 25–30cm of space between the seat and the underside of the surface. That’s the sweet spot.
In design, proportion is everything — and getting it right means your space doesn’t just look good. It works beautifully.
