The Ultimate Bar Stool Buying Guide Australia: Heights, Styles & Materials

Finding the Perfect Bar Stool

Choosing the right bar stool isn't just about finding a style you love. The height of your kitchen bench, the amount of space available and how you plan to use your stools all make a difference.

A stool that's perfect for a quick morning coffee may be very different from one you'd choose for long dinners and entertaining. Backrests, footrests, upholstery, swivel seats and adjustable heights can all affect how comfortable and practical a stool is in your home.

The most important place to start is seat height. Once you know the height of your kitchen bench, island or bar, choosing the right stool becomes much easier.

In this guide, we'll walk you through bar stool heights, materials, styles, spacing and features so you can choose stools that look beautiful and fit your space properly.

At Barstool Express, you'll find bar stools for kitchens, breakfast bars, home bars and outdoor entertaining areas, with free delivery Australia-wide.

Step 1: Getting the Height Right

Getting the height right is one of the most important parts of choosing a bar stool. A stool that is too high can leave you feeling cramped, while one that is too low can make your bench uncomfortable to use.

As a general guide, aim for approximately 25–30 cm of clearance between the top of the stool seat and the underside of your bench, counter or bar. This gives most people comfortable space to sit and move their legs.

Before choosing your stools, measure from the floor to the underside of your bench or tabletop.

Here’s a simple guide:

• Kitchen bench or island (around 85–95 cm high): Look for a counter-height stool with a seat height of approximately 60–70 cm.
• Higher bench or bar (around 100–110 cm high): Look for a bar-height stool with a seat height of approximately 70–80 cm.
• Adjustable-height stools: A flexible option if your bench height falls between standard sizes or the stool will be used in different areas.

Remember that bench thickness, aprons or supports underneath the benchtop can reduce available legroom, so always measure the actual space underneath your bench rather than relying on the overall bench height alone.

For more help, including diagrams and measuring tips, visit our Bar Stool Height Guide.

Step 2: Choosing the Right Style

Once you've worked out the right height, you can have some fun choosing the look. Bar stools can become a real feature in a kitchen or entertaining area, or blend quietly into the rest of your décor.

Think about the colours, textures and finishes already in your space, as well as the overall look you want to create. Here are some popular bar stool styles to consider.

Popular Bar Stool Styles

Industrial Bar Stools

Industrial bar stools often combine metal frames with timber, leather-look finishes or simple seating designs. They work particularly well in contemporary kitchens, home bars and interiors where you want a slightly more rugged, relaxed look.

Browse our Industrial Bar Stools.

Scandinavian Bar Stools

Scandinavian bar stools are known for their clean lines, simple shapes and light, natural feel. Timber tones, neutral colours and uncluttered designs make them particularly well suited to bright, contemporary kitchens and relaxed Australian homes.

If you love a fresh, understated look that won't overwhelm your space, Scandinavian-inspired stools are a beautiful choice.

Explore our Scandinavian Bar Stools.

Japandi Bar Stools

Japandi style brings together the simplicity of Scandinavian design with the calm, natural character associated with Japanese interiors. Look for clean silhouettes, warm timber tones, neutral upholstery and subtle organic textures.

Japandi bar stools work beautifully in minimalist kitchens where you want the space to feel warm and inviting rather than stark.

Explore our Japandi Bar Stools.

Choosing a Bar Stool Material

Once you've considered the overall style, think about the material. This can affect not only how your stools look, but also how they feel, how easy they are to care for and how well they suit your household.

Timber Bar Stools

Timber brings natural warmth and texture into a room and works beautifully across many different interior styles. Lighter timber tones can complement coastal, Scandinavian and Japandi-inspired spaces, while deeper timber finishes can create a richer, more traditional look.

Explore our Timber Bar Stools.

Leather Bar Stools

Leather and leather-look bar stools can give a kitchen or home bar a sophisticated, comfortable finish. Depending on the design, they can work with everything from classic interiors to contemporary and industrial spaces.

When comparing stools, check the individual product description to see whether the upholstery is genuine leather, PU leather or another leather-look material.

Shop our Leather Bar Stools.

Fabric Bar Stools

Fabric bar stools are a lovely choice when comfort is a priority. Upholstered seats and backrests can make them particularly appealing for kitchen benches where people tend to sit for longer meals, conversations or entertaining.

With colours and textures ranging from subtle neutrals to statement fabrics, they can also add softness to kitchens dominated by hard surfaces such as stone, timber and cabinetry.

Discover our Fabric Bar Stools.

Metal Bar Stools

Metal bar stools are versatile and available in styles ranging from industrial to contemporary. Depending on the design, you'll find options made from materials such as steel and aluminium, with a variety of finishes and seat styles.

If durability or outdoor suitability is important, always check the individual product specifications, as finishes and intended use vary between models.

Browse our Metal Bar Stools.

Plastic Bar Stools

Modern plastic bar stools can be lightweight, easy to clean and wonderfully simple in design. They're particularly useful in casual kitchens and entertaining spaces where low-maintenance seating is a priority.

Some designs may also be suitable for outdoor use or stackable for easier storage — check the individual product specifications before purchasing.

Browse our Plastic Bar Stools.

Outdoor Bar Stools & Sets

Shopping for an outdoor entertaining area requires a few extra considerations. Choose stools and tables specifically designed for outdoor use and check the individual product specifications for features such as UV-resistant materials, weather-resistant finishes and suitable frame materials.

Outdoor bar settings can be a great way to create a dedicated spot for drinks, casual meals and entertaining on a patio, deck or beside the pool.

Explore our Outdoor Bar Sets.

Step 3: Single Bar Stools vs Sets — Which Should You Buy?

At Barstool Express, our bar stools are available individually or in sets of 2, 3 or 4, depending on the design. The best option depends on the size of your bench, how many seats you need and whether you're furnishing a new space or adding to an existing setup.

Buying a Set

Buying bar stools as a set is an easy way to create a coordinated look around your kitchen bench, island or home bar.

• Sets of 2: Great for smaller kitchen benches, breakfast bars and apartments.
• Sets of 3: A practical option for medium-sized kitchen islands and benches.
• Sets of 4: Ideal for larger kitchen islands, long benches and entertaining areas.
• Coordinated look: Buying your stools together makes it easy to create a consistent style throughout your space.

Always check the individual product listing to confirm how many stools are included in the set.

Buying a Single Bar Stool

A single bar stool gives you more flexibility if you only need one seat or you're adding to an existing setup.

• Ideal for smaller spaces: One stool may be all you need for a compact kitchen or breakfast bar.
• Add extra seating: A single stool can be useful when you need an additional seat.
• Mix and match: Individual stools can also work well if you're intentionally creating a more eclectic look.

Our tip: Before ordering, measure your available bench space and check the seat width and quantity included on the product page. This will help you work out how many stools will fit comfortably around your bench.

Step 4: Materials & Durability — What to Look For

The material of a bar stool affects its appearance, comfort, weight, maintenance and suitability for different areas of the home. Many modern bar stools also combine several materials — for example, a timber or plywood seat with a metal frame, or an upholstered seat with timber-look legs.

When comparing stools, always check the individual product specifications for the exact materials and care requirements.

Timber & Engineered Wood

Timber bar stools bring warmth and natural character to a kitchen or dining space. Depending on the design, stools may feature solid timber, plywood, engineered wood or timber-look finishes.

Solid timber can be strong and long-lasting, while quality plywood and engineered wood allow manufacturers to create curved and contemporary seat designs. The finish and construction are just as important as the type of wood, so check the specifications of the individual stool before purchasing.

Metal — Steel & Aluminium

Steel and aluminium are commonly used for bar stool frames because they provide strength while allowing for slim, contemporary designs.

Steel is frequently used for sturdy frames and may have a powder-coated, painted or chrome finish. Aluminium is lighter and naturally resistant to corrosion, which can make it particularly useful for suitable outdoor designs.

For outdoor use, always check that the complete stool is specifically described as suitable for outdoor use, rather than assuming this based on the frame material alone.

Leather & Faux Leather (PU)

Leather and faux leather can give bar stools a sophisticated, upholstered finish.

Genuine leather develops natural character with age and generally requires appropriate leather care. PU leather offers a similar upholstered look and is often easy to wipe clean, making it a practical option for everyday dining and kitchen areas.

Always follow the care instructions provided for the particular upholstery.

Fabric

Fabric bar stools add softness, texture and comfort to a kitchen bench, island or home bar. They are available in a wide variety of colours and finishes, making them easy to coordinate with different interior styles.

Different fabrics have different cleaning and care requirements, so check the product information before purchasing — particularly in busy households or homes with children and pets.

Plastic & Polypropylene

Plastic and polypropylene bar stools are popular for their lightweight construction, contemporary styling and easy-care surfaces.

Some designs are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, while others are intended for indoor use only. If you're shopping for an outdoor area, check the individual product specifications for UV resistance and outdoor suitability before purchasing.

Our tip: Don't choose a bar stool based on material alone. Consider where it will be used, how often it will be used, how easy it is to maintain and whether features such as upholstery, a backrest or footrest are important to you.

Step 5: Other Things to Consider

With or Without a Backrest?

Backless bar stools have a streamlined look and can often tuck neatly underneath a kitchen bench when not in use, making them a great choice for smaller spaces.

Bar stools with backrests provide additional support and may be more comfortable when sitting for longer periods. Some designs also include armrests for extra support.

Think about how you'll use your stools. For quick breakfasts or casual seating, a backless design may be all you need. For longer meals and entertaining, you may prefer the added support of a backrest.

Swivel vs Fixed

Swivel bar stools allow the seat to rotate, making it easier to get on and off the stool and turn without moving the entire chair.

Fixed bar stools have a stationary seat and are available in a huge variety of styles, from simple timber designs to upholstered and contemporary stools.

If you like freedom of movement around a kitchen island or home bar, a swivel stool can be a practical choice. If you prefer a simpler design, a fixed stool may suit your space better.

Adjustable vs Fixed Height

Adjustable bar stools are useful when you want greater flexibility in seat height. Many adjustable designs use a gas-lift mechanism and may also include a swivel seat.

Fixed-height stools can be a great option when you already know the height required for your bench or counter.

Whichever style you choose, check the seat height against your bench height before ordering and aim for approximately 25-30cm of clearance between the seat and the underside of your bench.

How Many Bar Stools Do You Need?

Rather than relying on one standard measurement per stool, start by measuring the usable length of your kitchen bench or island.

Then check the overall width of the bar stool you're considering. Wider stools, stools with armrests and larger designs will naturally require more room than compact backless stools.

As a general guide, allow approximately 15–20 cm of space between stools so people can sit comfortably without feeling crowded. You may want a little more room for stools with armrests or wider seats.

This is also why it's important to check the dimensions on the individual product page before deciding whether you need 2, 3 or 4 stools.

Free Delivery Australia-Wide

At Barstool Express, we offer free delivery Australia-wide, making it easy to shop for bar stools whether you're in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide or regional Australia.

Simply add your chosen stools to your cart and enter your delivery address at checkout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What height bar stool do I need for a 90 cm bench?

For a 90 cm kitchen bench, a stool with a seat height of around 62–67 cm is generally a good fit. Aim for approximately 25–30 cm of clearance between the top of the seat and the underside of your bench. See our full Bar Stool Height Guide for more help with measuring.

What materials are best for bar stools?

The best material depends on where and how you'll use your stools. Timber and metal are popular choices for strength and everyday use, while upholstered fabric or PU leather can provide additional comfort. For outdoor areas, look specifically for stools made and rated for outdoor use, with materials suited to exposure to the elements.

Should I buy bar stools individually or as a set?

It depends on how many you need. At Barstool Express, our bar stools are available across a range of quantities, including single stools and sets of 2, 3 or 4, depending on the design. Sets are convenient when furnishing an entire kitchen bench, while individual stools give you more flexibility when you only need one or want to add to an existing space.

Do you deliver bar stools to regional Australia?

Yes. We offer free delivery Australia-wide, including regional areas. Simply add your stools to your cart and enter your delivery address at checkout.

What's the difference between counter height and bar height stools?

Counter-height stools generally have a seat height of around 60–65 cm and suit standard kitchen benches around 85–95 cm high. Bar-height stools are taller, generally around 70–80 cm, and suit higher benches or bars around 100–110 cm. Always check the individual stool dimensions and measure your bench before ordering — our Bar Stool Height Guide can help.

Ready to Shop?

Browse our bar stools by style and find the perfect fit for your kitchen bench, home bar or entertaining space:

• Scandinavian Bar Stools
• Japandi Bar Stools
• Industrial Bar Stools
• Timber Bar Stools
• Leather Bar Stools
• Fabric Bar Stools
• Metal Bar Stools
• Plastic Bar Stools
• Outdoor Bar Sets

Still not sure? Use our Bar Stool Height Guide to get the measurements right, or get in touch with our team — we're happy to help you find the right fit for your space.