How to Choose the Right Bar Stool Height for Your Kitchen Island – Complete Guide
With the growing popularity of kitchen islands, bar stools have become an essential part of modern kitchen design. But a stool that is a few centimetres too high or too low quickly becomes uncomfortable. In this guide you will find a clear bar stool height chart, how to measure your island, how much legroom and space to leave, and our favourite models by seat height.
Quick answer: for a standard 90 cm kitchen island, choose a 65 cm seat height. For a 100–105 cm bar or high table, choose a 75 cm seat height. Always leave 25 to 30 cm between the seat and the underside of the worktop.
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Bar stool height chart: which seat height for which counter?
| Counter / table height | Recommended seat height | Type of seat |
|---|---|---|
| 72–76 cm (dining table) | 45–50 cm | Chair or low stool |
| 90–95 cm (kitchen island, counter) | 60–65 cm | Counter stool |
| 100–105 cm (bar, high table) | 70–75 cm | Bar stool |
| 110–115 cm (high bar) | 80–85 cm | High bar stool |
How to measure your kitchen island
Measure from the floor to the top of the worktop, then subtract 25 to 30 cm: the result is the ideal seat height. If your worktop is very thick or has an apron underneath, measure from the floor to the underside instead and leave 20 to 25 cm of legroom. Always compare the seat height of the stool, never the height of the backrest or armrests: this is the only measurement that tells you whether the stool will fit under the counter.
Counter stool or bar stool: what is the difference?
A counter stool has a seat height of about 60–65 cm and suits standard 90 cm kitchen islands. A bar stool has a seat height of about 70–75 cm and is made for 100–105 cm bars and high tables. The 10 cm difference matters: a 75 cm stool at a 90 cm island leaves no room for your knees, while a 65 cm stool at a high bar makes you feel too low.
With or without backrest and armrests?
Stools with a backrest give better support and are ideal for long breakfasts, homework or working at the island. Backless bar stools are more discreet and slide completely under the counter, which saves space in small kitchens. If you choose a bar chair with armrests, check that the armrests fit under the worktop when the stool is pushed in.
Why a footrest matters
At 65 or 75 cm, your feet no longer touch the floor. A footrest (or a crossbar) supports your legs, improves comfort and posture, and makes it much more pleasant to stay seated for a long time. For daily use, it is one of the most important details to check.
How much space between each stool?
Allow about 60 cm of counter length per seat and at least 15 to 20 cm between two stools so everyone can sit down and get up easily. A 180 cm island therefore comfortably seats three people. Swivel stools or stools with armrests need a little more space. Also plan for 25 to 30 cm of overhang so that knees fit under the worktop.
Our bar stools by seat height
Counter stools – 60 to 65 cm seat height (for 90 cm islands)
- Elbow wooden bar stool – 65 cm
- Altessi wooden bar stool – 65 cm
- Veil bar stool with backrest – 65 cm
- Pandora upholstered bar chair – 65 cm
- Fly counter stool – 65 cm
- Bettie bar stool – 60 cm
Bar stools – 70 to 75 cm seat height (for 100–105 cm bars)
- Bella plastic bar stool – 75 cm
- Altessi wooden bar stool – 75 cm
- Veil bar stool with backrest – 75 cm
- Pandora upholstered bar chair – 75 cm
- Fly counter stool – 75 cm
- Bettie bar stool – 70 cm
Popular kitchen bar stools at Diiiz
Chesnut bar stool
Vintage charm and solid wood with a curved backrest. Available in 65 and 75 cm seat height.
Discover the Chesnut bar stool →
Bettie chrome bar stool
A sleek wire frame with a cushion, available in 60 or 70 cm seat height. Perfect for contemporary kitchens.
Discover the Bettie bar stool →
Charma cane counter stool
Wood and cane for a natural look. Backless, it slides easily under the island.
Discover the Charma bar stool →
Bella fabric bar stool
Upholstered seat with backrest, available in 65 or 75 cm and several colours.
Discover the Bella bar stool →
LIX metal bar stool
The iconic industrial bistro stool, available in 45, 65 or 75 cm, with or without backrest.
Our best-selling bar stools
These are the bar stools our customers order most. Click a stool to see its heights, colours and price.
Frequently asked questions about bar stool height
What height bar stool for a 90 cm kitchen island?
Choose a stool with a seat height of 60 to 65 cm. This leaves 25 to 30 cm between the seat and the worktop, the most comfortable distance for eating or working.
What height stool for a 105 cm bar?
Choose a bar stool with a seat height of 70 to 75 cm, ideally with a footrest.
What height stool for a 75 cm dining table?
A seat height of 45 to 50 cm, the height of a standard dining chair. Low 45 cm stools also work well as extra seating.
How many bar stools can I fit at my island?
Count about 60 cm of counter length per person: 2 stools for 120 cm, 3 for 180 cm and 4 for 240 cm.
Going further
Once you know the right height, choose the style: read our guide to kitchen bar stool styles and materials. Furnishing a restaurant, bar or hotel? See our guide to bar stools for professionals. Or browse our full bar stool collection.
Conclusion
The right bar stool height comes down to one simple rule: about 25 to 30 cm between the seat and the worktop. Measure your island, choose between 65 cm and 75 cm, then pick the comfort (backrest, footrest) and the style that suit your kitchen.