13 Best Counter Stools That'll Totally Take Your Kitchen To The Next Level • Inspired Design Talk

Looking for the best counter stools that’ll take your kitchen to the next level? Check out my favorites that are modern and stylish no matter your budget!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means that if you make a purchase, I might make a small commission at no extra charge to you. Please read my full disclosure here.

Table of Contents

Best Counter Stools

Whether you are in the process of a kitchen renovation or looking to update your existing kitchen new modern counter stools will make a huge difference. When it comes to modern counter stools there are so many to choose from in every style and budget.

You may be looking for your kitchen island or maybe you have a peninsula. Either one will be the go-to spot in your kitchen.

That said you’ll want something that is durable and trendy. Most likely your kitchen counter stools will be used for eating, crafts, and homework time.

Counter stools are available in different materials, finishes, and colors. They can have high, low, or no back at all. They are a great way to add texture and style to your kitchen design.

Unique counter stools are definitely another way to express your personality. They are also probably the only furniture you’ll need to purchase for your kitchen space.

If you are looking for resources for the best counter stools with backs you are in the right place! Let me know your favorites in the comments below.

This post is all about the best counter stools that’ll take your kitchen to the next level.

Where to shop for modern counter stools?

While most retailers have counter island stools in their assortment of furniture I have my favorites. These are the retailers I always find myself going to when shopping for modern contemporary furniture.

My favorite counter stool websites are:

There are more furniture resources but these are my favorites.

What is the best height for counter stools?

The standard height of counter stools is generally 24″-26″ inches from floor to seat.

The height of your island is usually the same as the countertop at 36″. An island with a taller height for bar stool seating will be 42″.

What is the difference between counter and bar-height stools?

While counter stools are 24″ high bar stools are typically five to six inches taller than counter stools. The standard height of bar stools usually measures between 28”- 33” high from floor to seat.

Bar stools are the type of seating you will usually find in restaurants and bars.

How much space do you need for kitchen island stools?

You should allow 28-30″ of space per seat at your island or peninsula. This means you can divide the length of your countertop by 30″ to determine how many stools will comfortably fit.

For smaller spaces, the minimum seating space recommended is 24″ width per person.

Best Modern Counter Stools

1. Wood Counter Stool // 2. Spenser Stool // 3. Ivory Stools // 4. Velvet Stool // 5. White Counter Stool // 6. Faux Leather Counter Stool // 7. Leather Stool // 8. Clear Bar Stools // 9. Bistro Counter Stool // 10. Rope Counter Stool // 11. Cylia Counter Stool // 12. Counter Stool

Best Counter Stools With Backs

For the purpose of this list, all the featured counter stools have backs. In a future post, I’ll do backless counter height stools. Be sure to check back for those resources as well.

1. Wood Counter Stool

buy on anthropologie

This stylish wood counter stool features a leather seat and an updated silhouette. The natural ash wood bowed back design will be super comfy as you sit at your island.

If you are after a modern California eclectic vibe this kitchen counter stool is for you.

2. Spenser Metal Island Stool

buy on anthropologie

This chair is to die for! Whether you prefer the copper (shown) or the brass colorway this beauty will look fabulous in your kitchen.

The classic bistro stool was inspired by a piece discovered at a Parisian flea market. This counter stool is sure to level up your design!

3. Ivory Stool

buy on CB2

You may be worried about the white fabric on these modern upholstered counter stools but don’t be! The slipcover can be removed and hand-washed if there are any accidents.

The solid iron rod legs and ball feet are a beautiful contrast against the ivory linen seat. This style is also available in bar stool height but counter height is ideal for most kitchens.

4. Velvet Stool

buy on amazon

This bad boy from TOV furniture is a thing of beauty. I personally have four of these counter stools and two years later they are still fabulous.

We have been able to wipe them clean and they have been super durable for our family of four. The cut-out modern back design is sure to make a statement in your kitchen design.

Our guests have raved about the style and comfort of these unique counter stools.

5. White Crypton Performance Fabric Island Stool

buy on cb2

This counter stool is an updated version of the traditional barrel chair design. The sculptural design will bring a bit of sophistication and personality into your kitchen design.

Made of White Crypton® performance fabric this beauty is stain & spill-resistant so no need to worry. If you are not familiar with Crypton fabric let me share some of the features.

Crypton fabric is stain & spill-resistant to both water and oil-based stains. When you pour liquid on this fabric the liquid will stay on the surface and not be absorbed. It is both beautiful and durable.

Highlights of Crypton are:

Stain-resistant
Beads liquids
Rejects odors and bacteria
Sustainable and doesn’t harm the planet
Available in many textures, colors, and patterns
Soft and luxurious

6. Faux Leather Counter Stool

buy on Target

For anyone on a budget, these mid-century faux leather counter stools from Target are for you!! Each one is sold for under $100 which is an amazing deal for these modern faux leather stools.

The counter stools feature a molded back design that will contour the shape of your body. These kitchen stools are the perfect addition to any modern contemporary home.

Order yours today before they sell out. There are four colorways to choose from but only the caramel and dark gray are in stock.

7. Leather Stool

buy on Anthropologie

This is a super comfy and stylish stool that your whole family will love. The clean lines of this modern silhouette are sure to make a statement on your kitchen island.

I love the updated look of the camel-colored leather and gold metal frame. These will work well in both a modern or glam-style kitchen design.

This counter stool is sure to be a focal point in your living space. If you have a white kitchen these stools are the perfect contrast to make a bold statement.

Choose from seven colorways when placing your order.

8. Clear Bar Stools

buy on Cb2

So I am literally obsessed with these clear counter stools!! I love everything about them from the clean acrylic silhouette to the gold thin base.

This beauty is sure to be a focal point in any modern home. If you need bar stools also these are a great choice for there as well!

9. Bistro Counter Stool

buy on serena & lily

This is a modern take on the classic Parisian bistro chair. The rattan frame is crafted in a time-honored technique perfected by the French, bent and shaped by hand until the iconic shape is achieved.

This bad boy will look awesome in your updated kitchen design. Again you can purchase these in counter or bar stool height.

10. Rope Counter Stool

buy on one kings lane

This unique counter stool is made to impress and be super durable. The perfect option to update your neutral modern home.

The Easton counter stool features an intricately woven seat with sand rope and a light gray seat cushion. It is crafted in mahogany hardwood which has fine grains and is super durable. This style is timeless and built to last.

11. Cylia Counter Stool

buy on lulu and georgia

This modern wood chair is perfect for anyone who loves clean lines with interesting details. The curved back design will mold into your back and give just the right amount of support.

The maintenance on this bar stool is a plus also just use a damp cloth and wipe them clean. These kitchen counter stools will look fabulous in any simple modern home.

12. Counter Stool

buy on lulu and georgia

Love the mixed materials of this modern counter height stool. The wood accent piece adds a touch of warmth and sophistication to the metal upholstered stool.

This modern counter stool will look stunning in any contemporary home. The best part is the fabric is stain resistant so need to worry about accidents with this one!

For those with little ones in the home, you’ll appreciate the durable fabric and simple design.

13. Upholstered Stool

buy on Target

For anyone on a budget, this set of two is for you!! The pair is sold for under $200 which is an amazing deal for these modern upholstered stools.

The counter stool back features a curved back design that will contour the shape of your body. These kitchen stools are the perfect addition to any modern contemporary home.

I hope these resources are helpful as you go through the process of your kitchen update. Make sure to check back for future posts on this category.

Have an amazing day full of Unicorns & Rainbows!

xo Nicole