Stools & Chairs - A Roundup of Adrienne's Favourites
With summer just around the corner we’re all starting to plan for outdoor spaces. It's also an important time of year to maintain your focus on the interior of your home. Most of us tend to entertain more often throughout the summer but sometimes the party has to move indoors. It’s then that we can be caught without enough seating.
Often the most difficult items for my clients are stools and chairs for dining and relaxing in the kitchen and/or dining area. Part of the difficulty is in the fact that most showrooms don’t offer a significant amount of options. Those that are available to test are often expensive and not always what we’re looking for.
That means we’re left considering online options. There are some good online shops but it’s important to know what to look for so that we’re getting the chairs and stools that best suit us and our space.
What To Look For When Purchasing Stools & Chairs
1/ The Height
This is more relevant to stools but it’s important before you begin shopping that you’re aware of the height differences. There are two stool heights available: counter height and bar height. Counter stools range from 24”-29” and bar height varies between 29”-32”. Always know what height you’re in need of before you begin shopping.
Most retailers will not offer an exchange, particularly those that are custom or semi-custom orders so be 100% certain before ordering stools. If you don’t have a designer shopping for you be sure to confirm with the retail staff to avoid errors.
2/ The Frame
Do you prefer a metal or wood frame? Do you want something custom made or ready made? Do you want to be able to select the stain or finish? Is frame construction important to you? These are all questions that will determine where you shop and what you’ll pay so know before you go.
A metal frame can have a longer life depending on the method of construction used with the wooden frame. If you prefer a wooden frame ask questions about how it’s made so you have a better idea of its longevity.
3/ Functionality
Many of my clients like a stool with a swivel function to make it easier to get in and out of the seat. I also like to recommend a sturdy footrest if you will be spending long periods of time in a stool.
When purchasing either a stool or chair, consider whether you want armrests. This can also make long dining experiences more comfortable. And when it comes to stools you’ll need to decide whether you want a backless stool or one with a back.
If you’re planning to spend long periods of time sitting in the stool you should test drive both styles before deciding. Many of us need the back support for long periods of time but some of the best backless stools are designed to keep you comfortable for extended periods.
4/ The Fabric
Depending on what stage of life you’re in there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. First, if you have young kids you’ll want to consider performance fabrics or leather since they’ll be the easiest to maintain long term.
We don’t always have the option to select the fabric but if you do, consider performance fabrics. Regardless of whether you have young children it’s always a good idea to safeguard your purchase against spills and stains.
5/ The Design
Lastly, consider the design style of the rest of your space and be consistent when purchasing new stools and chairs. There are such a wide range of options but you want the new pieces to fit into your current design.
There are times when a head chair looks great and it can elevate your space. This tends to be a more traditional look but can work well with any style if you select the right frame and fabric.
6/ Size
Always measure the width of your table or countertop before you begin shopping. This size will dictate the best width for your new stools and chairs. As a general rule there should be 24” from centre of stool to centre of neighbouring stool. This amount of space gives enough room for everyone to come and go easily without feeling stuck.
Adrienne’s Favourite Stools & Chairs
1/ Bocca Stool
If you’re limited on space or you have an open concept home you might want to consider a backless stool. These tuck easily under the countertop and tend to blend into the background. This beautiful Bocca stool has several metal finish options as well as fabric and/or leather options so it’s completely customizable.
2/ Rus Counter Stool
This is a classic shaker style that is having a resurgence of popularity so it really goes with any design style. Even with the high back it looks sleek and unobtrusive. This style is also available in bar stool height or dining chair. Want a more dramatic colour choice? These are available in black or green.
3/ Elbow Counter Stool
This style was originally designed in Denmark in the 1950’s and is now considered a modern classic. If you love the minimalist look but want something that is comfortable enough to lounge in, this is worth considering.
4/ Courcheval Leather Stool
If you’re looking for a stool that will be comfortable for long stretches of time you should consider a fully padded stool with a high back. The warm caramel leather is a nice way to add some softness to a kitchen which can often feel cold due to all the hard materials used in construction.
5/ Absalom Swivel Stool
There are a lot of reasons why adding a swivel feature to your stool is a good idea. It definitely makes getting in and out of your seat easier but it also allows you to change directions easily and be a part of all that’s going on while you’re seated. The linen seat looks elegant in contrast to the black frame.
6/ Arcadia Bar Stool
This woven stool can be used both indoors as well as outdoors. This style is very contemporary and feels reminiscent of a beachside, coastal home. Both the fabric and woven frame are weather proof which ensures it will also wipe up nicely.
7/ Dine In Dining Chair
This chair is made from solid oak and a performance fabric so it’s not just beautiful but well constructed. The performance fabric means messes can be cleaned up easily. The beautiful lines of this chair are reflected on each side so even pushed into the table they’re making a strong design statement in your space.
8/ Aubrey Armchair
This chair is inspired by a classic Italian design. As well as looking great the chair’s curved back will support you for as long as you choose to stay at the table. There are a variety of fabrics to choose from so you can find one that suits your design needs.
9/ Belmar Upholstered Dining Chair
If you love the idea of a slipcover for easy cleaning, this is your chair. Both the seat and back are upholstered for lingering well past dinner in comfort. This chair is available with or without arms so you can combine both together and use the armchair as chairs at the head of the table.
10/ Sausalito Dining Chair
If you love a classic dining chair this is the one for you. This is a timeless design that will never go out of style. The round back will add softness to your dining room. If you love the look of this chair, order extra chairs that can be used at either side of your hallway console table. This will offer you extra chairs for those large gatherings.
11/ Allena Tufted Dining Chair
This is another classic chair that can add a touch of elegance to your dining room. The tufted back leans towards a more traditional design aesthetic and will pair with most styles of dining table. It comes in over 20 fabric options and 5 options for leg stain.
12/ Dunham Dining Chair
If you’re looking for a chair that will make a dramatic statement in your dining room, look no further. The woven back and the dramatic black frame create a showstopper for your dining space.
I hope you feel empowered to go find the perfect chairs and stools for your home. If you have a decorating project coming up and need some help, reach out to me. I’d love to discuss how I can help.
Warm regards,
Adrienne