Create a kitchen aesthetic worthy of a Joanna Gaines nod with these beautiful modern farmhouse bar stools. From rustic farmhouse to modern industrial and classic cottage styles, you’ll find great options to suit your space.
I’m currently refreshing my daughters’ bathroom, but I get easily distracted when decorating. Once I imagine one room, I’m already picturing the next. The kitchen is especially tempting—it’s the heart of the home and where people naturally gather, so it’s usually the first place I want to refresh.
The bar or counter seating plays an important role. It’s where guests sip a drink while the host finishes cooking, where kids eat breakfast, and where colors, textures, and seating styles shape the feel of the entire room.
Gorgeous Kitchen with Farmhouse Bar Stools from Cedarhill Farmhouse
I have fond memories of sitting at my mom’s counter—chatting while she cooked or helping from the seat across the counter. Those stools are part of family life, not just furniture. They witness conversations, homework sessions, and casual meals, so choosing the right bar stools matters.
Right now my kitchen has four mismatched stools: some hand-me-downs I painted years ago and a couple of metal stools I picked up to match. I’ve been dreaming about a coordinated set but, with little kids who use them as TV trays, I’m balancing style with practicality.
Since I’ve been daydreaming—and helping my assistant finish her house build and pick stools—I’m sharing a curated selection of favorites and practical tips to help you choose the best farmhouse bar stools for your home.
Things to Consider Before Buying Bar Stools
1. The Right Height
Height is the first detail to check. Bar stools come in three common sizes: counter height, bar height, and extra tall. Measure the distance from the floor to the underside of your counter or bar top, then allow comfortable legroom—typically about 9–13 inches between the seat and counter surface. Choosing the correct height ensures comfortable seating and a cohesive look.
via Hayneedle
2. The Right Width
Width and spacing matter for comfort and traffic flow. Narrow stools let you fit more seats, while wider seats and armrests require extra room. A practical guideline is a seat width between 17″ and 21″ and about 6″ of space between stools. Adjust spacing if you expect regular guests or need room for passing behind the stools.
3. The Right Type
Now for the style choices: backless or backed seats, with or without arms, upholstered or solid wood and metal—the options are endless. For homes with kids, metal or wood is easy to clean and durable. If you have more space and want extra comfort, choose stools with backs and arms. For tight walkways, backless or armless designs keep traffic flowing smoothly. Decide if you want swivel or fixed seats and whether adjustable height is important for flexibility.
Quick recap:
Small spaces: backless, armless, and compact designs.
Large spaces: consider arms, backs, and wider seats for comfort.
16 Best Farmhouse Bar Stools
Backless Metal Farmhouse Bar Stools
Backless metal stools are perfect for industrial or rustic farmhouse kitchens. They tuck neatly under counters, are sturdy, and resist spills—ideal for busy households that need both style and practicality.
Backless Wooden Farmhouse Bar Stools
Saddle-style or simple wood stools bring warmth and timeless charm. Choose wood finishes that complement your cabinets or contrast them for visual interest. Many wooden stools offer swivel seats and adjustable heights for flexibility.
High-Back Bar Stools
High-back stools add a refined, comfortable feel—great for open-plan kitchens where the seating becomes a focal point. Look for supportive backs, and, if desired, metal frames for a modern farmhouse contrast.
Upholstered Bar Stools
Upholstered stools bring softness and style. Choose durable fabrics or leather for easy maintenance. Rounded backs and square-upholstered seats can elevate a kitchen from casual to cozy elegant.
I hope these suggestions help you choose bar stools that fit your lifestyle and design goals. Which style would you pick for your kitchen?
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