We Answer Wednesday - How to pick the right Kitchen Island seating options

"I'm moving into a house this fall and we have a kitchen island.  I'm excited to have seating at the island.  I've never purchased stools before what should I be looking for?"

First off - Congrats on the move!  How exciting!!

A kitchen island is definitely something to be excited about - they offer so much extra kitchen space in terms of prepping, serving or just hanging out.  We love kitchen islands!

When it comes to seating at your island the first thing you need to be 100% aware of is the height of the island.  Is it bar height? Is it counter height? Or is the (seating space) table height?  This is the number 1 thing you need to know before making any purchase.

 

For a bar height (this is usually described as a breakfast bar, usually there is a part of the island that is raised. sometimes we see a raised portion on a kitchen peninsula). A 30-inch stool is the perfect height for a standard 42-inch bar or counter top but anywhere between 28" and 33" will work . Bar-height stools are also ideal for a work space, like the garage. These are the same size stools you see in a restaurant or bar and are taller than the average dining chair. Ideal for standard built-in bars. Not ideal for small children

For counter height, this is an island that is the same height as the rest of your counter tops. These stools are the ideal height for a 36-inch counter or to have on their own for extra seating. Counter-height bar stools are smaller than the typical stool you see in restaurant or bar, but are a great addition to your home bar or kitchen space, they range in height from 24" to 27". Popular option for kitchen islands and easy to use for most people

For table height, (we see this a lot in condos) the island usually has a portion of the island that is counter height and then a portion that dips down to table height.  This is in lieu of a kitchen or dining table. Table-height stools are shorter than counter or bar stools and can be a good alternative to chairs at a dining table or breakfast nook. Generally between 16 and 23 inches tall. Offers a casual look; often without backs. Great choice for small children and kids' seating

 

this is an example of the kitchen island counter top with only a slight over hang - this would not be the main eating space but perfect for hanging out while watch the host cook.
 
Other measurements to consider when choosing a bar stool are the spaces between each stool as well as between the stool and the surface height.





For stool spacing, look to have about 26 to 30 inches measured from the center of one stool to the center of the stool next to it. This allows for optimal space for eating, working, and socializing. For leg spacing, account for 9 to 12 inches between the stool seat and the underside of your counter top or bar surface. We suggest a counter top over hang of 15"-18" if this is going to be a main eating area.

When it comes to style - the possibilities are truly endless but take a few things into consideration.  If this is a main seating/dining area - mid to full backs are a comfortable option.  If your are tight on space look for options that are sleeker and not bulky, backless stools tuck under counter top over hangs really nicely.  If you have room for lots of seating but don't really have a lot of guests over, try mixing styles - that way you have the supportive comfort but also some spare seating when you need it and your kitchen won't look or feel cramped.




This image is a great example of mixing stool styles.  The full back upholstered stools are comfortable and perfect for everyday use.  The backless adjustable cowhide stools add some extra seating when needed.

 

We Answer Wednesday - How to Include Metal stools in My Decor style

“I LOVE the look of metal stools in the kitchen when I am flipping through magazines. For my own home, I worry that they will be cold, and won’t fit with my décor style. Are metal stools only for industrial décor?”

 

Great question!! Metal stools are definitely everywhere these days and for good reason! They are stylish, easy to clean and super versatile. The great thing about metal stools is that there isn’t just one kind.. they come in many different colours, styles, dimensions and go with a variety of décor. They are not limited to one décor style.

 

Decorating with the “unexpected” is often a welcome addition to your space.. having every single piece resemble one another can look boring and typical. By adding in metal stools in your mostly wood home, or into a mostly white room, or adding a pop of colour in another wise monochromatic space keeps your home looking interesting, and most importantly, personalized. You are the one who lives there, so its important that you love what you have inside. This should be a reflection of your personality.

 

Remember, you don’t have to do ‘full’ metal. If you like the look of metal, but are nervous how it will blend into your home, then buy something with another texture. Maybe some wood detailing.. or a fabric seat with metal legs. Be creative! Buy what you love.

 

Another positive of using metal in your home.. is that it is super easy to keep clean. Just wipe and go. If you are a busy family with children, you don’t have to worry about them staining any upholstery. Metal is fantastic for kitchen chairs as well, for the same reasons.

 

Having metal stools in fun colours is another fabulous and family friendly look. Children typically love colour, adding different colours into your space is a fantastic way to freshen up your space.

 

Blending styles is easier than you think! Of course, there are definitely styles that don’t jive as well together. Modern and Traditional pieces don’t typically go as well as say country and rustic. Adding some rustic pieces to your contemporary décor is an easy transition. Having an eclectic space is another easy style to blend pieces together. If you add in metal, add some elsewhere as well. Even just adding a metal accessory to tie the textures together will make it look planned and on purpose.  the image below is a great example of tying in some common threads, the metal legs on the stool pair beautifully with the metallic back splash tiles and with the metal pitcher on the counter. Having some commonality in your space always helps to give that ‘designer look’ you see in magazines.