Are you opening a bar or do you simply want to improve the look of your kitchen
counter? Then you probably need some good bar stools? Don't know what to buy?
Read the guidelines below and stop the confusion.
Consider the
Height
You should consider the height of your counter or bar when
buying bar stools. Ideally, there should be 10-12 inches between your bar stool
seat and the top of your counter or bar. For example, if you have a 36 inch counter
or bar then you will need a 24 or 25 inch seat height bar stool. If you have a
48 inch high counter or bar then you should buy a 36 inch tall bar stool. If the
height and size of your bar or counter is unique you can have a bar stool custom
made for it. At an additional cost, some manufacturers will cut the legs of available
bar stools to accommodate the height of any bar or counter. For example if you
need a bar stool that is 27 inches in height, then buy one that is 30 inches high
or more and have it cut to 27 inch size.
Swivels
When it comes to swivels there are generally two types. And choosing one all
depends on personal taste. The first is the regular swivel which provides 360
degree turning and works on most styles of bar stools. This is the only type that
should be used on a backless swivel bar stool. The elderly, disabled and children
would find it easy to get on and off this type of bar stool that's why it is ideal
in the home. The second type of swivel is the memory swivel. This type of swivel
has a spring loaded mechanism that allows the stool to return to the center position
when the person sitting on it gets off, providing a neat look all the time. It
also saves users from manually turning the stool to a central point. The memory
swivel only turns approximately half way for people to get on and off it.
Backed or Backless?
Keep in mind that backless type
bar stools are designed for short duration sitting. These type of bar stools come
in a variety of seat choices and is available in either wood or metal.
There
are generally three types of backless bar stools:
The
standard round seat which has a smooth surface,
The saddle dish
which conforms to the body surface for added comfort, and
The
round cushion which has a wood base and comes with a padded cushion in the fabric
of your choice.
Style & Material
If you choose to buy bar stools with backs then you will also find
a variety of styles and make from wood, metal and iron as well as the fashionable
"stainless steel finish" which is chosen by most designers. Wooden bar
stools with backs come in Arrow Back, Wheat Sheaf, High Spindle back, the low
curved back and the low spindle back. Wrought iron bar stools on the other hand,
come with "motif" backs with your choice of motif design to fit your
décor and lifestyle. These type is ideal for restaurants and bars.
Arm Rests?
If you require a bar stool which provides
total comfort then buy the type that has a back and an arm as well. The arms provide
additional comfort while eating or drinking. The only disadvantage of these kind
of bar stools is that they would require additional space at the counter or bar.
When you do buy bar stools with arms then make sure that you consider turning
space when installing them.
Buying Tips
If you can, purchase bar stools in a store with good professional customer service
people.
Buy bar stools that are backed by individual factory
warranties for your own peace of mind.
Determine the number
of bar stools you will need.
When choosing between metal or
wood, take note of their differences. Wooden stools have a warmer feel while metal
ones are usually contemporary.
Paul Graham - For more great bar stool related articles and
resources check out http://barstools.rechq.com
