Bar Stools: A Guide to Finding the Right Size for Your Space
At Furniture Row, we know there’s nothing more frustrating than taking home brand new bar stools only to find out they are the wrong size for your table. This all-too-common mistake happens because many people aren’t familiar with the essential measurements and differences between bar stool types. But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Whether you’re furnishing a kitchen island table, dining table, or bar table, we’ll help you avoid the guesswork and take home the right size bar stool for your space.
3 Standard Bar Stool Heights
Bar stools are a versatile seating option designed to fit beneath countertops and tables of varying heights. What many people don’t realize is that dining surfaces typically come in three standard heights: Counter Height, Bar Height, and Dining Height. To ensure a comfortable fit, most bar stools on the market are specifically crafted to match one of these standard heights.
Dining Height Bar Stools
- Height Range: 15”- 21”
- Sized for: Dining Tables
Dining height bar stools, often referred to as “dining stools,” are a versatile alternative to traditional dining chairs, designed to fit seamlessly beneath standard dining tables. Their seat heights range from 15” to 21”, as they are perfectly proportioned for 30” tables.
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Counter Height Bar Stools
- Height Range: 22”- 26”
- Sized For: Counter Height Tables and Kitchen Islands
Looking to elevate your kitchen or dining area? Counter height bar stools are a stylish and functional choice designed specifically for counter height tables, kitchen islands, and standard countertops. With seat heights typically ranging from 22” to 26”, these stools are crafted to slide seamlessly under standard 36” countertops.
Explore our Counter Height Bar Stool Collection!
Bar Height Bar Stools
- Height Range: 27”- 33”
- Sized For: Bars and Pub Tables
Bar height bar stools are the tallest option for elevated seating, designed to pair perfectly with 42” bar tables (also known as pub tables) and bar-height countertops. With seat heights typically ranging from 27” to 33”, these stools provide ample legroom and a comfortable perch for casual dining, entertaining, or enjoying drinks with friends.
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Proper Bar Stool Spacing
Proper spacing ensures comfort and avoids a cramped look:
- Spacing: Leave roughly 24″ between the centers of each stool along the table or counter’s length. For stools with armrests, allow up to ~30″ between the center of each stool.
- Seat height: Allow around 9″-12″of vertical clearance between the seat and the underside of the table.
- Around the table: Also consider the space around the table or counter to ensure the stool fits without blocking walkways behind it.
- No walkway behind: A minimum of 32" of clearance is recommended behind the bar stool so there is enough room to pull it out and sit comfortably.
- Walkway for edging past: A minimum of 36" inches of clearance is recommended to allow another person to edge past a seated individual.
- Walkway for walking past: A minimum of 44" of clearance is recommended to allow for comfortable passage behind a seated person.
Final Thoughts
At Furniture Row, finding the right fit has never been easier. Start browsing our selection today and discover the perfect bar stools for your space - or shop our modern, contemporary, and farmhouse furniture collections and create a comfortable and stylish seating area that you'll love for years to come.
If you found this furniture guide helpful, be sure to check out our Sofa Buying Guide series for everything you need to buy the perfect sofa for your home!