Kitchen Bar Stools at Dufresne Furniture and Appliances
Your kitchen island is an integral part of your life. Morning coffee before work, kids doing homework while you prep dinner, friends gathering for drinks on Friday night. The right bar stools turn that counter into the most popular spot in your home.
At Dufresne Furniture and Appliances, our bar stools handle everything from quick breakfasts to long conversations, so whether you're looking for something that swivels when you're chatting, adjusts when different family members sit down, or just looks great while handling daily use, we've got options that make sense for your lifestyle.
Finding Bar Stools That Fit Your Space
Counter Height Bar Stools: These sit at 24 to 26 inches high, perfect for standard kitchen counters and islands. They're the workhorses of most Canadian kitchens, giving you comfortable seating without feeling like you're perched too high. Great for breakfast nooks where you want a casual feel.
Bar Height Stools: At 28 to 30 inches, these work with higher counters and pub-style tables. If you have a raised bar area or taller island, this is your height. Bar height stools will give you that elevated view of the kitchen without the awkward climb.
Swivel Bar Stools: Turn to grab something from the counter, spin to join the conversation, Swivel stools are perfect for open-concept homes where your island faces the living room. No more twisting your back to see what's on TV while you eat.
Backless Stools: Slide them completely under the counter when you need floor space. These space-savers are ideal for smaller kitchens or when you want to keep sight lines open. Just make sure you're okay sitting without back support for longer stretches.
Bar Stools with Backs: Support where you need it. If your family tends to linger at the counter (and let's be honest, who doesn't?), a backrest makes those long conversations way more comfortable. Look for mid-backs if you want support without blocking the view.
Upholstered Bar Stools: Soft seats that invite you to stay awhile. Fabric or faux leather cushions add comfort and style. Just remember, kids and spills happen, so performance fabrics are your friend if you've got a busy household.
Things to Consider Before Buying Barstools
Measure Your Counter Height: Grab a tape measure and check from floor to the underside of your counter. You want 9 to 13 inches between the seat and counter for comfortable leg room. Too little space and you'll feel cramped. Too much and you'll be reaching up for your plate.
Count Your Stools: Here's a good rule: allow 24 to 26 inches of counter space per stool. That gives everyone elbow room without bumping into each other. For a 6-foot island, you're looking at three stools max. Measure your space and do the math before you fall in love with a style.
Consider Who's Using Them: Got kids? Look for stools with footrests so their legs aren't dangling. Taller family members? Make sure the seat height and footrest work for longer legs. If grandparents visit often, backs and armrests add stability for getting on and off.
Material Matters: Wood seats look classic but can feel hard after a while. Metal is durable and easy to clean, perfect for high-traffic kitchens. Upholstered options feel more comfortable but need more care. Pick what matches your lifestyle, not just your Pinterest board.
Swivel or Stationary?: Swivels are convenient but can be a hazard with young kids who love to spin. Stationary stools stay put, which is safer for little ones and often more stable overall. Think about who's using them most.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bar Stools
What's the difference between counter height and bar height stools? Counter height stools (24-26 inches) work with standard kitchen counters around 36 inches high. Bar height stools (28-30 inches) pair with higher bars and pub tables around 40-42 inches. Measure your counter before you buy.
How many bar stools will fit in my kitchen island? Allow 24 to 26 inches of space per stool. For a 6-foot island, that's three stools. An 8-foot island can comfortably fit four. Too little space means people end up bumping elbows, while too much can make the spacing awkward.
Should I get bar stools with backs? If people will be sitting for more than a few minutes at a time, backs provide better support and comfort. Backless stools tuck away neatly but aren't great for long meals or homework sessions.
Can I use bar stools in my dining room? Absolutely! Bar height tables are increasingly popular for casual dining spaces. Just make sure your stools match the table height and that you have enough clearance for people to slide in and out comfortably.
What's the best material for bar stools with kids? Look for performance fabrics that resist stains, or easy-clean surfaces like faux leather and metal. Wood and metal frames hold up better than delicate designs. Save the fancy upholstery for the formal dining room.
Ready to Find That Perfect Bar Stool?
The right bar stools turn your counter into the heart of your home. Whether you need backless space-savers or cushioned comfort for long family meals, Dufresne has options for every kitchen and budget.
Visit your local Dufresne store in Manitoba, Ontario, or Saskatchewan to test them out in person. Our team can help you find the perfect height, style, and material for your space. Book an appointment for personalized service, or browse our full selection online.
Because at Dufresne Furniture and Appliances, we're not just selling furniture. We're helping Canadian families make life better, one room at a time.