All You Need to Know About Bar Stools in 2020

Bar stools make the ideal seating for cafes, bars, bistros and restaurants. They’re comfortable, stylish, and sociable and, provide you choose the right design, they can add a unique look to your establishment with the minimum of effort.

That said, it’s important to think a few things through before diving in and purchasing bar stools outright. For instance, have you stopped to consider the atmosphere and vibe of your venue? Stools can be incredibly versatile since they can be put to work in various ways other than just giving your customers a place to sit.

Flexible and fitting

When used in the right way, bar stools can completely transform the atmosphere of a bar or cafe. They can be positioned along windows with bar tables to create an uninterrupted view of the world outside or you could use them to encompass a space to create a laid back relaxed vibe.

Moreover, it’s worth remembering that there are hundreds of different styles and they all do a great job of filling those awkward corners or lingering spaces.

Bar stool height

Knowing which height of bar stool to choose is important, but it isn’t that difficult to fathom. In essence, you’re going to need to know the height of the tables or bar counters that you’re using. As a rule of thumb, you should be considering stools that are between 30 to 36 cms shorter than these fittings and fixtures. This allows for customers’ chests to be above the height of the bar counter or table and their knees below the roof. If you’re not quite sure, your furniture supplier should be able to assist.

With or without a back?

We’ve already said that bar stools come in hundreds of different styles but basically they come in two models – with or without a back.

Backless stools are convenient and can be easily tucked beneath most counters and tables whereas stools with backs take up more room but are more comfortable for your customers.

It’s a good idea, therefore, to bear in mind what sort of use your stools are going to be getting. Are your customers going to be dining in for a lengthy period of time? If so, then we’d recommend selecting stools with backs. If they’re just going to be seated on a stool while they have a drink before moving to a different table to eat, then backless stools are the best way to go.

How many bar stools should you buy?

This is a question that we’re often asked to answer. Really, it’s a question of getting the balance right between barstools and chairs. Too many stools and your customers may feel crowded, too few chairs and you could lose out on customers wanting to relax on a chair.

The best thing, therefore, is to measure your space leaving a measurement of around 55 to 63cm for each stool which should leave you with a layout that allows for comfort while making full use of your space.

If you’re in the market for bar stools then we can help. Here at Cafe Chairs Sydney, we stock a wide range of bar stools in a variety of materials, heights, and colours. Why not browse our online store or visit our Sydney showroom to try them out for yourself.