Protocol: Design Considerations For Bar Stools – Creating comfort & style
When it comes to furnishing hospitality spaces, bar stools play a significant role in both the functionality and ambiance of a venue. Whether you’re designing for a busy restaurant, a cosy bar, or a trendy café, the right bar stool can enhance the guest experience. With a range of bar stools that cater to different needs, styles, and settings, Protocol explore the key design considerations to keep in mind when selecting bar stools for your project.
Tailor your Bar Stools to your table height
Selecting the correct bar stool height is essential for both comfort and practicality. Bar stools typically come in three standard heights, each suited to different table or counter heights:
- High Stools (approx. 760mm seat height) are ideal for tables or bars that are around 1100mm high. These are often used in bar settings or high-top dining areas.
- Counter Stools (approx. 660mm seat height) are best paired with tables or counters that are about 900mm high, making them suitable for kitchen islands or casual dining spaces.
- Low Stools (approx. 450mm seat height) are used for standard table heights ranging from 500mm to 750mm, offering flexibility for both coffee and dining areas.
By ensuring that your bar stool height matches the corresponding table or counter height, you create a comfortable and functional seating arrangement for your guests.
Backrests vs. No Backrests
The presence (or absence) of a backrest on a bar stool significantly impacts the overall vibe and guest experience. For venues where you want guests to linger, such as sophisticated restaurants or bars, bar stools with backrests offer added comfort and encourage visitors to stay longer.
Conversely, bar stools without backrests are commonly seen in casual or quick-service restaurants, where the goal is often a quicker turnover. A minimalist design gives a modern and streamlined appearance, perfect for spaces where guests are likely to stay for shorter periods and they often also enable quick cleaning.
Upholstered vs. Non-upholstered
The choice of material for your bar stools should reflect both the style of your venue and its practical needs. Upholstered bar stools, with their cosy feel, are perfect for creating a warm, inviting atmosphere—ideal for bars or lounges where comfort is key.
For high-traffic or casual dining spaces where ease of maintenance is a priority, non-upholstered bar stools are generally better suited. With options in materials like metal, wood, or plastic, these stools are durable, easy to clean, and more resistant to wear and tear, making them a practical choice for busy restaurants.
Enhance comfort and convenience
One feature of many of the bar stools Protocol’s website is a footrest, which provides guests with added comfort, especially when seated at higher tables or counters.
Footrests offer ergonomic benefits, reducing strain on the legs and allowing for a more relaxed seating experience. This simple addition can make a big difference, especially in settings where guests may be seated for longer periods.
Space requirements and layout
When selecting bar stools, it’s crucial to consider the overall layout and traffic flow of your space. Allow enough room between stools to ensure that guests can comfortably move in and out of their seats without feeling cramped. Generally, you should leave at least 15cm between each stool, with more space for stools that swivel.
Additionally, think about the activities that will occur around the bar stools. Will they be used primarily for dining, or are they more suited to casual drinks and conversation? Understanding how your guests will use the space can help inform decisions about the size, style, and placement of the stools.
At Protocol, they are proud to partner with a network of International suppliers helping you make informed decisions from a broad spectrum of products. Whether you’re looking for a cosy, intimate bar setting or a more fast-paced dining environment, they’re available to help you create a functional and inviting space.
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