Bar Stools Calgary: Your Guide to Selecting the Ideal Match
Bar stools come in all shapes and sizes, but essentially provide a common solution which is seating at a bar or countertop. This type of seating is generally seen as a space saver, but that doesn’t mean they have to be ugly and uncomfortable. Calgary Interiors is a custom designer and fixer of all kinds of bar stools, and we love helping local bar owners and home bar enthusiasts get exactly what they need.
Also Read – Calgary Interiors a leader in Hospitality Furniture and Design
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Understanding Bar Stools
Bar stools are a popular seating option in many homes, particularly for adding additional seats around kitchen islands, countertops, and home bars. They come in a variety of styles, materials, and heights, making them a versatile choice for any space. In this section, we will discuss the main aspects of bar stools in Calgary.
There are three common widths for bar stools: 15″, 17″, and 21″. When choosing a stool, it’s essential to consider the size of the area where they will be placed. Measuring the width of your counter or bar can help you determine the right size of stools to fit in your space. A good guideline is to have 26″ – 30″ between the centres of each bar stool, ensuring enough room for comfortable seating and movement.
In addition to width, you should also consider the height of your stools. There are typically two main types: bar height stools and counter height stools. Bar height stools have a seat height of around 28″ – 32″, making them ideal for countertops or bars that are around 40″ – 42″ tall. On the other hand, counter height stools have a seat height of approximately 24″ – 26″, and they best pair with countertops or tables around 36″ tall. It’s crucial to choose the right height for your bar stools to ensure a comfortable sitting experience.
Material choices for stools in can vary widely, from metal and wood frames to upholstered and leather seats. Some popular options include faux leather, wood, and chrome finishes. When selecting the materials, consider the style of your home and the durability you require. For instance, if you have a modern or contemporary aesthetic, a sleek metal bar stool might be the best choice.
Bar stools also come with various additional features, such as adjustable height, swivel seats, and footrests. These extra characteristics can add functionality and comfort to your seating area. Make sure to consider your needs and preferences when choosing bar stools that include these features.
When picking the perfect bar stool for your room, it’s essential to carefully consider the width, height, materials, and additional features to ensure that you make the best decision. By keeping these aspects in mind, you can create comfortable and stylish seating in your home.
Key Features of Bar Stools
Material Choices
There are various materials and similar technologies available for bar stools, each offering durability and aesthetic appeal. Wood and metal stand as two popular choices, adept at enhancing any kitchen or bar area with their distinct vibes. Wooden bar stools evoke a classic and warm atmosphere, while metal frames can introduce an industrial or modern flair.
Alongside these traditional materials, advancements in similar technologies have led to the development of high-strength composites and durable plastics, broadening the spectrum of styles and functionalities. Regardless of the choice, both traditional materials and innovative alternatives are celebrated for their strength and longevity, ensuring your bar stools remain a cherished focal point for years to come.
Design Styles
Bar stools in Calgary showcase a range of styles to suit any home décor. From minimalist and contemporary to traditional and rustic, there is a perfect design for everyone. Some bar stools feature clean lines, sleek finishes, and neutral colours for a modern touch, while others may boast ornate details, tufting, and rich colours to create a more classic appeal. Mixing and matching design styles can enable homeowners to create a unique and inviting bar area.
Height and Size
The height and size of bar stools are crucial factors to consider for the perfect fit and functionality. Short or counter-height stools are typically 24 inches from the floor to the top of the seat, best suited for counters and kitchen islands. Alternatively, 30-inch or tall bar stools are ideal for high pub tables and bars. Choose the size that best accommodates your space and meets the required comfort level.
Comfort Factor
Bar stools offer various comfort options for any bar or kitchen setting. Upholstered seats and backrests provide additional padding, while footrests or rungs across the bottom legs can assist in proper positioning and support. Other features, such as swivelling mechanisms or adjustable-height functionality, can enhance user experience and ensure guests remain relaxed during gatherings or everyday use.
Bar Stools and Interior Design
Bar stools are an important element in contemporary and modern interior design, as they provide both style and functionality to various spaces in the home. These versatile pieces of furniture can enhance the appearance of kitchen islands, home bars, and other entertainment areas while offering additional seating options for family and guests.
There is a diverse range of bar stools that Calgary Interiors can design and build. From minimalist and mid-century to industrial and rustic, consumers can easily find the perfect stool to complement their existing home décor. Popular materials for bar stool frames include lustrous metal and wood, both of which can be used effectively to create different ambiances in the room.
One of the appealing aspects of bar stools is the option to choose from various luxurious finishes and performance fabrics. This customization allows homeowners to personalize their interior design while ensuring the bar stools are comfortable and durable enough to withstand daily use.
When selecting the right bar stools for their home, Calgary residents should consider important factors such as style, height, counter height and materials. This will help them establish a harmonious and practical aesthetic that seamlessly integrates with the rest of their design elements.
Choosing Bar Stools For Your Home
Selecting the right counter stools for your home can significantly enhance the ambience and functionality of your space. Fun and stylish stools can do wonders for your kitchen islands, countertops, and dining areas. When selecting stools for a room, several key factors should be taken into consideration to ensure they not only complement your decor but also offer comfort and functionality:
- Height and Size: Determine the appropriate height of the counter stool based on the height of your bar or counter. Optimal seat height typically falls between 9 to 12 inches below the bar or counter surface. Also, consider the available space to ensure the stools fit comfortably without overcrowding.
- Style and Aesthetics: Choose stools that harmonize with the interior design settings of the room. Whether your style is modern, rustic, traditional, or eclectic, ensure the stools’ design, material, and colour align with your overall decor theme.
- Material: Counter stools come in various materials, including wood, metal, plastic, and upholstered options. Consider the durability, comfort, and maintenance requirements of each material. For instance, upholstered stools can provide added comfort but might require more upkeep.
- Comfort: Opt for stools with comfortable seating features such as cushioning, backrests, and footrests. Swivel and adjustable height options can also enhance comfort and convenience.
- Functionality: Think about how you intend to use the counter stools. If they’re primarily for dining, comfort might be a priority. If they’re for socializing, swivel or backrests might be more important.
- Number of Stools: Determine how many stools you need based on the available space and how frequently you entertain guests or use them for dining.
- Durability: Consider the sturdiness and durability of the stools, especially if they will be heavily used. Quality construction ensures they withstand daily wear and tear.
- Ease of Cleaning: Depending on where you place the stools, they might be exposed to spills and stains. Choose materials that are easy to clean, or opt for removable and washable seat covers.
- Storage: If you have limited space, consider stackable or foldable stools that can be conveniently stored when not in use.
- Budget: Set a budget for your counter stools. While investing in quality is important for durability, you can find stylish and functional options within various price ranges.
- Matching or Mixing: Decide whether you want the counter stools to match each other or if you prefer a more eclectic look by mixing styles, colours, or materials.
- Swivel and Mobility: Swivel stools can provide easier interaction and mobility, making them great for areas where conversations and movement are frequent.
- Foot Glides: Check if the stools have protective foot glides to prevent scratching or damaging your flooring.
By considering these factors, you can choose counter stools that seamlessly integrate into your home’s design, provide comfort, and serve as functional additions to your living space. At Calgary Interiors, our design team works with all of these factors in mind to create the perfect functional set of bar stools for your home. If you currently have bar stools you love, but it looks like they need some love, we do that too! We understand how difficult upholstery fabric decisions can be and sometimes you can’t find what you are looking for in store. We can help guide you in the right direction on choosing the right fabric for your upholstery project. The best part, we’ll upholster it for you!
Bar Stools Maintenance
Bar stools are a popular choice for seating in homes, restaurants, and bars. To ensure their durability and maintain their appearance, it is essential to implement some basic maintenance practices.
Regular cleaning is crucial for maintaining the look and feel of bar stools, particularly for those with upholstered or leather seats. For fabric seats, use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove dust and debris, while a damp cloth is typically sufficient for wiping down leather or vinyl seats. Always check the manufacturer’s care instructions for specific cleaning tips.
The frame of the stool should also be cleaned regularly to prevent dirt buildup. For wooden frames, a soft cloth dampened with a mild soap solution can be used to wipe the surface. Be sure to dry the frame immediately after cleaning to prevent watermarks. For metal frames, a slightly damp cloth or a designated metal cleaner should do the trick.
Checking hardware and connections is another essential maintenance step. Over time, the screws and bolts used to hold the bar stools together can loosen due to frequent use. Inspect the connections periodically and tighten any loose screws or bolts to ensure stability and prevent accidents.
Floor protection is often overlooked but plays an essential role in prolonging the life of both the stools and the flooring beneath them. Adding felt pads or rubber caps to the bottom of the stool legs can minimize scratches and scuffs on hardwood or tile floors. Moreover, these pads or caps should be replaced once they become worn or damaged.
Adhering to these maintenance practices will help keep your stools looking fresh and functioning correctly, adding to the aesthetics and enjoyment of your space.
Unique Calgary Bar Stool Trends
There are a diverse range of stool styles, blending elements of modern, traditional, and contemporary aesthetics. Modern stools are known for their sleek lines and unique material combinations. They often have chrome or steel bases with molded plastic or upholstered seats, creating a visually striking contrast. These pieces are perfect for minimalist and industrial-style spaces.
Traditional bar stools incorporate more classic design elements, such as ornate woodwork and rich upholstery materials. These pieces often showcase warm wood tones and carved detailing, reminiscent of pub and bistro-style seating. Leather or fabric cushions in timeless patterns like plaid or floral add a touch of sophistication to these pieces, making them suitable for formal dining areas and cozy home bars.
Contemporary bar stool trends are characterized by their versatility and adaptability, embracing a mix of textures, colours, and shapes. One example of this is the popularity of mixed-material bar stools, often featuring wood or metal frames with seats upholstered in performance fabrics. Additionally, there is a focus on ergonomics, with many bar stools featuring adjustable heights, swivel mechanisms, and comfortable padded seats.
Some notable design features seen in stools include:
- Bold colours and patterns: One recent trend is incorporating bold colours and patterns into stool designs, adding a vibrant touch to any space. Be it animal prints or vivid geometrics, these bar stools bring a fresh and lively feel to the décor.
- Reclaimed materials: As sustainability becomes more important, the use of reclaimed materials like old barn wood or metal parts is seen in many bar stool designs. These rustic and eco-friendly pieces often boast their unique histories and add a sense of antiquity.
- Industrial-inspired elements: Sleek metal accents, exposed hardware, and visible welds are some design elements inspired by the industrial style. These edgy components lend a raw and utilitarian appeal to the stools, perfect for urban and modern environments.
How to Repurpose Old Bar Stools
Repurposing old stools is a creative and eco-friendly way to give them a new lease on life. There are numerous ways to up-cycle these pieces, turning them into practical and stylish items for your home.
One idea is transforming old bar stools into a work desk or console table. With bar stools typically measuring 28 to 30 inches in height, they match the standard height of work desks and console tables. To achieve this, simply remove the seats from the bottom frame of the old bar stools and attach a suitable tabletop surface.
Another option is to give your old bar stools a fresh, modern look with a coat of paint. Start by cleaning the stool with soap, water, and a sponge. Once clean, apply a coat of metallic or colourful spray paint to the legs for an eye-catching finish. Remember to let the paint dry completely between coats.
Reupholstering the seats of the bar stools can also make a significant difference in their appearance. To do this, remove the existing fabric or upholstery and replace it with new material that complements your desired style. You can even add comfortable cushions as an extra touch.
For a more unique creation, consider combining an old bar stool with an unfinished wooden tabletop. To achieve this, lightly sand the bar stool, clean it with a degreaser, and then spray it with two coats of spray paint. Let it dry completely. Stain the wooden tabletop on both sides with a suitable wood stain and let it dry. Finally, attach the table top to the stool, creating a custom side table or plant stand.
In summary, repurposing old bar stools can result in stylish, functional, and eco-friendly additions to your home décor. With a little creativity and some basic DIY skills, you can breathe new life into these items and save them from the landfill.
Not Interested in doing the re-upholstery work yourself … we get it
There is a lot that goes into re-upholstering furniture and we get how it can feel like a daunting task, from picking out the colour of fabric, to considering the durability of the fabric and choosing something that is timeless. That’s just the start of it! At Calgary Interiors, we do it all. We have a design team that will help guide your through fabric options and we will do the upholstery work and can even add new cushions if yours have seen better days.
If re-upholstery isn’t an option, we also do custom. We can design and build the perfect bar stool or kitchen counter stool that you will smile at every time you walk past the kitchen.
Contact us to receive an estimate regarding your commercial, hospitality or home project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most comfortable type bar stool?
The bar stools that offer the highest level of comfort usually feature a cushioned seat. Additionally, there are options available with backrests that allow you to relax without the need to maintain an upright posture. Many stools with backrests are designed to be space-efficient, often featuring a low-back design.
What is the difference between bar stools and kitchen stools?
Bar stools stand taller than kitchen counter stools and are intended for use at bars or high tables. On the other hand, counter stools are shorter and are meant to be used at kitchen counters or kitchen island. Due to this distinction in height, bar stools necessitate a higher seating surface that meets the bar height, whereas counter stools call for a lower one. Standard bar stools are between 28-32 inches high, while counter stools are typically between 22-28 inches high.
How do I choose the right bar stool to match my counter height?
To find the optimal seat height for your stool, measure from the floor to the top of the counter and then subtract 10 inches. This seating height provides ample leg clearance for most individuals. Additionally, ensure that your bar or counter is suitable for the stool. For sufficient knee room, an overhang should measure at least 10 inches.
Are adjustable bar stools better?
Swivel bar stools offer greater comfort compared to fixed ones. They provide enhanced ease when getting in and out of the seat. Not only do they allow effortless movement around the bar, but they are also particularly suitable for those who desire the flexibility to sit at their table or workspace without feeling confined for an extended period.
Do bar stools have to match the dining room chairs?
Bar stools do not necessarily have to match the dining room chairs. While matching them can create a cohesive and harmonious look throughout the dining room, mixing styles can also add visual interest and personality to your space. Consider factors like the overall decor style, colour scheme, and the desired atmosphere when deciding whether to mix or match bar stools with dining room chairs. Ultimately, the choice depends on your aesthetic preferences and the cohesive feel you want to achieve in your dining room.
