Wooden stools

Around an island, a counter or a high table, a wooden bar stool creates a natural gathering spot. In our collection of bar stools and chairs, Nordlys pairs the warmth of wood with a variety of seats to suit breakfasts, breaks and aperitifs. Start by checking the height of your setup, then choose the shape and materials that will make this corner of your home feel welcoming.

What bar stool height should you choose for your counter?

Seat height is the first factor to consider. A stool that is too high leaves too little room for your legs beneath the countertop; one that is too low forces you to raise your arms to eat. Measure your counter from the floor, then check underneath to account for any crossbar or storage.

The term “bar stool” covers several styles. A seat designed for a kitchen island may not have the same dimensions as one made for a standard bar-height table. Compare the measurements listed on each product page.

Seat height for your countertop or island

As a starting point, allow about 25 to 30 cm between the top of the seat and the underside of the countertop. For a counter around 90 cm high, a seat height of about 60 to 65 cm may be suitable. A higher counter will require a different seat height, adjusted to its dimensions and your comfort.

Also check the clearance beneath the countertop: a thick top or apron can reduce legroom. The footrest deserves the same consideration. It should let you sit comfortably without your feet dangling, especially if you'll be seated for a full meal.

Adjustable models for different uses

An adjustable stool can make it easier for several people to share a seat or accommodate different uses. However, its adjustment range must suit the counter. Compare the minimum and maximum heights with your measurements before choosing.

This feature depends on the model’s design and is not common to all wooden stools. Consider the adjustment mechanism, whether it swivels, and the shape of the base together. Make sure the seat is easy to adjust and has enough clearance around the island in all the positions you need.

Solid wood, bamboo, or wood and metal: choosing the frame

A solid wood frame highlights the grain and brings a warm presence to the room. The shade and finish shape the overall look: light wood complements a bright interior, while a deeper tone creates contrast with a white or stone-inspired kitchen. If FSC certification is mentioned, refer to the details for the specific model.

Bamboo offers a different natural look and should be distinguished from wood in the product composition. A combination of wood and metal creates a more graphic design. It can echo the industrial chairs in the adjoining dining area.

To connect the two spaces with a softer touch, our wooden chairs offer other silhouettes to coordinate. Keep one finish or shade consistent without trying to make all the furniture identical.

Caned, rope, bouclé, or velvet seat: which is most comfortable?

The seat determines how you feel in contact with the stool and contributes greatly to its character. Woven cane, rope, bouclé or velvet each offer a different texture and feel. Also consider the depth, usable width and shape of the edges.

Your choice depends on how much time you spend at the counter. A quick break and a regular dinner call for different comparisons of the backrest, padding and support provided by the footrest.

With or without a backrest, depending on your habits

A backless stool stays out of sight when it can slide under the counter. It works well in spaces where you want to keep the island visually clear between uses. Still, check its width and the space available for storing it.

A backrest makes the seat feel more enveloping and gives the bar area a stronger presence in the room. The backrest’s height and angle affect how you sit. If the model has armrests, compare their height with the underside of the counter to make sure they don’t prevent you from tucking the seat in.

Upholstered seats or natural materials

Cane and rope bring a woven texture that complements natural interiors. Their appearance can make a seat look visually lighter, especially when the backrest is open-weave. Exact materials and cleaning recommendations vary by model.

A seat upholstered in bouclé or velvet offers a softer feel. Comfort also depends on the foam and the shape of the seat, not just the upholstery. Choose a material that suits your kitchen routine: how close it is to food preparation, how often you eat there, and how easy you want it to be to clean.

Dust surfaces regularly and promptly soak up any spills. Woven fibres and upholstered seats should be protected from excess water.

Create a welcoming bar area in the kitchen or living room

Leave enough space between stools so everyone can sit down and move their arms comfortably. Take the backrest width and any swivel function into account. There should also be enough room to walk behind the seats when the bar area is in use.

In an open-plan room, wooden dining tables carry the material through to the dining area. If space is limited, also compare small dining tables: their standard height suits a different purpose than a counter. Wooden ottomans can also complement a relaxation area with low seating.

To organise your living areas without cluttering the room, explore our multifunctional furniture ideas for small spaces. Choose the number of seats based on the space you actually have, then check the configurations available in each set.