Huddling around a kitchen island with friends and family is a lovely and relaxing way to share food, enjoy a drink and catch up. So of course you want a comfortable - and stylish - bar stool to sit on. Kitchen islands are often the focal point of a kitchen, so it's worth choosing a bar stool you love!
There are all sorts of bar stool designs on the market, from wipeable family-friendly buys, to glamorous, stand-out decorative pieces. We've rounded up a list of nine fabulous options, for all budgets and styles. So whether you want a sturdy seat for wholesome family brunches, or a suave and sophisticated bar stool to wow your guests, we've got you covered.
Looking to create a bar in the comfort of your own home? Discover everything you need to create your own home bar.
Best bar stools for 2024
Vasagle Industrial Bar Stools
If you're a fan of dark décor and rustic interiors, these industrial style bar stools are sure to appeal. They'd work well against dark green or navy walls, and you could find matte kitchen accessories to match the matte black stool legs. They're great value too if you're looking to add a touch of rustic charm on a budget.
You can easily tuck them away thanks to their neat design, if you ever need to create more space in your kitchen.
With a quick assembly time, you'll be enjoying a coffee, or wine, at your island in no time.
Check out our favourite coffee machines and get your frothy caffeine fix at home.
Fabric Breakfast Counter Chairs
You might prefer a bar stool you can sink into, with a bit of back support. These grey fabric bar stools help add a homey touch, and we love the backrest's sleek scallop-shaped design. The soft fabric would suit a country, farmhouse vibe, as well as a more modern kitchen that perhaps lacks a bit of warmth.
They certainly have a welcoming feel so they'd suit a sociable space that's busy with guests popping in and out. You can adjust the stool's height which is handy for varying table heights, and there's a footrest for added comfort.
Match these chairs with some lovely farmhouse décor.
Tulle Bar Stool
While bar stools are functional kitchen accessories, you can still have fun choosing a particularly snazzy design. The French cane backrest and seat really help this chair stand out, giving it a unique and eye-catching look. It's the perfect seat for a chilled-out weekend breakfast with friends. It would slot into a range of colour palettes, from creamy colours to bold and vibrant reds.
As an added bonus, it arrives fully assembled, so there's no need to dig out the tool kit.
Keep your guests entertained with our list of dinner party game ideas.
Luxe Indigo Velvet Bar Stool
Imagine sipping your favourite cocktail on this beauty! If you're looking for a classy and glamorous option, look no further than this velvet bar stool. You can always rely on Oliver Bonas for stunning velvet home accessories. The contrast of the deep blue and sparkly gold makes it pop, so it's one to consider if you're looking for a striking seat.
You could place it in your living room as it works as a statement piece, as well as an extra seat for visitors. Surround it with gold accessories to keep up the lavish feel.
- £295
Buy the Luxe Indigo Velvet Bar Stool now from Oliver Bonas
Clayton Bar Chair
A lovely fit for earth tones, this bar stool would work with light, sage colours as well as dark chocolates. It would look gorgeous next to dark navy kitchen cabinets, as it would help lighten the room, whilst providing contrast. There's also a navy option available if you want to go for an all over dark décor vibe.
Its wooden design lends itself well to a cosy farmhouse kitchen. Why not add a soft seat cushion, for added comfort and style? This lets you play around with the interior design of your kitchen too. You could add a flowery, or nature themed cushion to keep up the country vibe, or go for a solid green or navy option for a more contemporary feel.
Take a look at our favourite earth tone accessories.
Industrial Leather Bar Stool
This ribbed leather bar stool is ideal for a retro kitchen. It's got the diner vibe, without the loud red colour we associate with American diners, so it's a more muted alternative. Adding a few brass kitchen accessories and dangling cute fairy lights across your kitchen shelves would work well with this style of bar stool.
Thanks to the back support, you could work quite comfortably from your island or counter, if you fancy setting up office in your kitchen.
You could also add some kitchen house plants to compliment the mossy green colour.
- £180
Buy the Industrial Leather Bar Stool now from Etsy
Looking for retro items to complete your look?
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Whitby Bar Stools
If your mornings consist of wiping up soggy cereal and squished banana, you might appreciate a wipeable, tantrum-friendly choice. These white stools will slot into any kitchen thanks to their no-fuss, no-frills design. Their curved shape provides you with a comfortable seat at the end of a stressful day, or school run.
They're an affordable and family-friendly choice, ideal for bustling kitchens. They're also available in black.
Siena Bar Stool
We love the minimalist look of this bar stool. The sharp lines give it a contemporary look, so it would look fabulous in a modern kitchen. You can soften it with a faux fur rug, and you could place it against bright, vibrant wall colours for a funky look.
It's also available in gold if you're after a jazzier vibe.
Hartleys Industrial Grey Metal Bar Stools
This classic bar stool design is a practical, sturdy and trendy choice. Their stackable nature makes them easy to store, and there's a little slot you can use as a handle when carrying. They're great for spontaneous gatherings and summer BBQs when guests are looking for a seat.
You get four in this set, so they're great value too.
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