Just installed a kitchen with a gorgeous island? Or got a high table and want to get your guests gathered around it? It’s time to pick out your bar stools — and they needn’t be a big splurge.
We’ve scoured the best affordable home shops to find bar stools for every decor scheme. So what should you consider?
Firstly, think about how much space you have. If you’ve got a large open-plan room and want to choose something super comfy, a deep cushion design with back support will do the trick. Or if you’re short on square footage then go backless so you can push your stools under the table or island worktop when you need them out of the way. A bar stool on a single leg will create the illustion of even more space and will be the most slimline option for smaller spaces.
Next, pick your look: is your interior scheme leaning towards the industrial, country, classic or Scandi? Pick a design that’s either matching or adds some character if you’re trying to upgrade a soulless room or rental. A light wood such as an oak-effect can soften a room, or a fabric like velvet will add colour and texture. Choose a bold colour, fabric or pattern to draw the eye to your kitchen island and make it a fun focal point.
Now you’re ready to shop - here are our favourite cheap bar stools.
Dunelm Elements Griffin Counter Height Bar Stool
This vibrant blue-hued bar stool will add a playful touch to your kitchen scheme. It’s ideal if you want a simple design with back support. The Griffin range comes flat-packed so you’ll need to assemble your stools before you take a pew.
Buy now £59.00, Dunelm
IKEA Dalfred Bar Stool
The IKEA Dalfred stool is a cult classic — and it’s perfect for creating a Scandi look on a budget. Pair with a monochrome kitchen for a cool minimalist look. It can be adjusted between 90 and 110cm high, so you can adapt it to suit kids or adults of varying heights, or for different-sized islands and worktops.
Buy now £50.00, IKEA
Cult Furniture Regent Kitchen Stool
This plush-looking, velvet-topped bar stool will suit anyone who loves a cosy, eclectic scheme.
Buy now £29.00, Cult Furniture
The Range Industrial Iron Bar Stool
This adjustable industrial-look bar stool from The Range will look great in a modern kitchen for a New York loft vibe.
Buy now £59.99, The Range
Sklum High Adjustable Stool
Super simple and space-saving, this Sklum bar stool is a great match for Scandi schemes or country kitchens. It comes in six shades so you can choose one to suit your space’s colour palette.
Buy now £74.95, Sklum
Dunelm Vivian Counter Height Bar Stool
Want to get the hotel bar look at home? Make a statement with this Art Deco-inspired stool with a plush padded velvet seat and bronze-edged legs.
Buy now £119.00, Dunelm
The Range Luella Stool
What could be cosier than a boucle bar stool? This one from The Range is a deep-seated design so you’ll feel comfy lingering with your coffee.
Buy now £29.99, The Range
John Lewis ANYDAY Kyla Bar Stool
These classic Kyla bar stools from John Lewis’s affordable ANYDAY range will look chic in any kitchen. They come with a handle in the seat so they can easily be moved around between rooms.
Buy now £99.00, John Lewis
George at Asda HOMCOM Gold Modern Counter Bar Stools
This pair of gilted counter stools are a real statement for anyone who loves the Art Deco look. For added comfort they come with a velvet-look seat pad.
Buy now £140.00, Asda
Cult Furniture Tolix Style Metal Bar Stool
With an elm wood seat and metal legs, these industrial-look bar stools from Cult Furniture are a sleek way to add character to modern spaces.
Buy now £45.00, Cult Furniture
