The best bar stools make the most of vertical space, whether arranged around a tall kitchen island (as tradition calls for) or dining table. And as open-plan kitchens have gained popularity over the past several decades, so too has the demand for stylish counter stools and barstools.
The seating style has become a fundamental of casual dine-in kitchens, but deciding between a high-back style (à la this Hudson Valley home) versus a neatly tucked away backless one (like the one seen in this West Village kitchen) is just the beginning of your sourcing considerations. Lumbar support for those of us with a weak core can certainly dial up the comfort level, while footrests and contoured or cushioned seats are other nice-to-haves as well.
From modern farmhouse to midcentury, a design-forward bar stool can add the right seating to polish off any ledge you aim to gather around. Below, an assortment of some of our favorite well-designed bar stools that will elevate your bottom and your dining setup in one.
Our Top Picks for the Best Bar Stools
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This counter stool in light oak from Article doesn’t go through the hoops of reinventing a classic—the slight frame and dependable base are going to be stylish and functional no matter what your design aesthetic is. While this is the type of stool that can camouflage itself in nearly any room, we think it looks best with a neutral palette à la Athena Calderone.
Architectural bar stools can help draw the eye into a space whether it leans maximalist or minimalist, and no one will miss this burl wood stool from Crate and Barrel. The movement of the natural material in its base contrasts the smoothness of its cushioned top, and the brass detailing adds a hint of fun sparkle. It’s the kind of seat that’s asking for an olive garnish.
The dining chair from Herman Miller’s Comma collection left a positive impression on commerce director Lori Keong this past Seat Week, for its fashionable, yet comfortable construction. “The circular seat base perfectly rounds out the rest of the design, from the steam-bent backrest that curves around your back to the slender legs that look exceptionally pleasing to the eye,” she says. Naturally, we think the stool version is also a winner, coming in a range of natural wood tones as well as colorful base options for adventurous decorators.
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Midcentury meets coastal with Sarah Sherman Samuel’s ripple stool. The solid wood frame immediately draws the eye, while the scalloped detailing brings some charm to what could feel like an otherwise very formal chair. The round, linen seat cushion provides a comfy foundation for anyone lucky enough to be invited in for cocktail hour.
As the name would suggest, the Rodin stool from Arhaus has a sculptural appeal—it can be easily assimilated into a sophisticated bar setup, or used to dress up a more casual breakfast bar. Each seat is upholstered in a cotton wool blend that’s made to feel as soft as cashmere, though when an inevitable red wine spill or accidental food mishap occurs, cleanup will prove to be a breeze in comparison.
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Pierce and Ward’s collaboration with West Elm is an exercise in thoughtful maximalism, and these matching bar stools add lots of personality to any cocktail hour arrangements. Punctuated by stripes and slim, knobby legs, this whimsical seating looks like something Tim Burton would dream up for your next happy hour.
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This metal frame stool from Sundays is minimally minded with a low back and solid wood seat in a matching black hue. Modern design aficionados will gravitate towards the slim profile, while comfort connoisseurs will appreciate the padded leather backrest that can withstand lengthy workdays as well as the happy hours that follow.
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A counter stool in a kitchen can be an ideal spot to finish homework, and these minimalist seats from Rejuvenation have that after-school aesthetic. Choose between teak, metal, walnut, or oak for the seat, and then blue, white, or black for the rest. When the work is done, these stools will get an A+ for looks on their own.
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Warmer weather calls for al fresco meals, and this indigo blue bar stool from Article can bring a distinctive hue to the rest of your outdoor palette. The woven seat is easy to sink into, while the back will keep you comfortable as you chat.
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This Castlery design is another supportive option we found to bring texture to your space. The bouclé seat and the sleek, all-black frame give the piece a modern look, while the airy, cane detailing adds a playful touch to what could be a more serious stool.
Bar stools are a fun way to bring color into a bright and airy kitchen, and this slime-colored stool from Serena and Lily would fit the bill in any playful setting. The armless build makes for easy settling in, while the supportive back keeps you propped up no matter how frequently you do crunches.
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For those who want to keep their stools as simple and classic as the rest of their kitchen or bar design, try this classic Herman Miller option from Design Within Reach. Its rounded base and seat are joined together by a steel beam with a brash finish, making it sturdy with a small footprint. Better yet? It won’t take up room if you need to bring it to the family or living area during a party.
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These Harry Bertoia stools spotted on 1stDibs are the type of seats that can be dressed up or down—or left alone to be adequately admired. The steel net frame can coordinate with a wide color palette, but we think these are the type of stools that aren’t afraid of a little color. If you have a color-drenched bar or kitchen, just imagine these beside a fruit bowl.
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A high-contrast bar stool like this woven-and-wood option from West Elm finishes off a counter with a detail that doesn’t need much else to look complete. Thanks to a sand-colored and woven back beside a leather seat, plus a shiny black frame, these are the stools you pick when you intend to keep your counters clear most of the time. They don’t deserve the competition.
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If curating an indoor-outdoor tiki bar is part of your summer agenda, then these rattan bar stools from Serena and Lily will stay on theme. The woven material is used throughout, and the best part is that the seat swivels. It’s perfect for a private spot that glows under string lights and gets just the right amount of breeze.
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This Muuto Nerd stool from Design Within Reach comes in a handful of colors, but we’d pick the one in dusty rose. Why? This shade complete with a slight back almost acts as a neutral. Place it in a more traditional setting for a pop of color, or surround it with patterned wallpaper, and this stool will hold its own. It’s versatile but still has a personality.
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Trust in Jeremiah Brent’s good taste to revive a tired-looking bar area. White bouclé paired with a rustic black iron frame creates a dynamic texture moment, while the modern cutout silhouette gives the frame a sense of lightness. There’s even a matching armchair available to create a coordinating setup with your regular dining room furniture.
