When choosing a bar stool, the right seat height is essential for comfort and functionality. But how do you determine the ideal height for your bar stool? In this blog, we explain what to look for and what guidelines to follow.

How to determine the ideal seat height:

The seat height of a bar stool is determined by the height of the table or kitchen top at which you are sitting. For a comfortable sitting position, keep 27 to 30 cm distance between the seat and the top of the top. The most optimal seating height is at 28 cm below the top of the table top.

Calculation example
- Is your bar table 110 cm high? Then a bar stool with a seat height of 82 cm is ideal, with a margin between 80 and 83 cm.
- Does your kitchen island have a height of 93 cm? Then a bar stool with a seat height of 65 cm fits best, with a margin between 63 and 66 cm.

In addition, the thickness of the table top also plays a role. A thicker top limits legroom, so keep this in mind. If your table top is no thicker than 10 cm, then sufficient legroom remains.

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Fixed versus adjustable bar stools

There are two types of bar stools: fixed bar stools and height-adjustable bar stools. Both have their own advantages.

Fixed bar stools

• Ideal for high bar tables and kitchen islands.
• Stable, especially models with four legs.
• Less wear and tear because there is no adjustment mechanism.
• Often available in more designs and with larger seat shells for extra comfort.

Adjustable bar stools

• Flexible in height, ideal for tables of different heights.
• Nice when multiple people of different heights are using the bar stool.
• Often equipped with a swivel function for added convenience.
• Mostly slightly less stable than fixed bar stools, depending on the base.
  

In addition to comfort, style also plays a big role in choosing a bar stool. Are you going for an industrial look with metal accents? Or does a Scandinavian look with fabric upholstery suit your interior better? Also consider whether you want a backrest or armrests for extra support.

Conclusion The ideal height of a bar stool depends on your table or worktop height. The optimal distance between the seat and the top is 28 cm, with a margin of 27 to 30 cm. Choose a fixed bar stool if stability and design are important, or go for an adjustable bar stool if you want flexibility. With the right seat height, you will enjoy your bar or kitchen island to the fullest, regardless of your choice.