Bar Stools for Small Kitchens: Space-Saving Tips and Picks
The best bar stools for a small kitchen are slim, backless stools that tuck completely under the bench. Look for a seat around 35–40cm wide, open legs or a slim pedestal, and a light colour or finish so the stools don’t crowd the room visually.
5 rules for bar stools in a small kitchen
- Go backless. Backless stools slide fully under the benchtop, freeing up floor space when you’re not sitting.
- Check tuck-under height. The seat should sit 25–30cm below the underside of the bench so the stool fits underneath. For a 90cm bench that’s a seat around 60–66cm.
- Choose slim frames. Thin metal legs, a slim timber frame or a single pedestal look lighter than chunky bases.
- Keep it light. White, natural timber, clear or light grey stools make a small kitchen feel more open.
- Fit fewer, better stools. Two comfortable stools beat three cramped ones. Allow about 55–60cm of bench per stool.
How many stools fit a small bench?
| Bench length | Stools |
|---|---|
| 1.0m | 1–2 slim stools |
| 1.2m | 2 |
| 1.5m | 2 |
| 1.8m | 3 |
Leave at least 90cm behind the stools to walk past. In a galley or apartment kitchen where that’s tight, backless stools that tuck away are the only practical choice.
Best styles for small spaces
- Backless timber stools: warm, light and they tuck straight under. See wooden bar stools.
- Low-back stools: a small back rest gives support but still slides mostly under the bench.
- Gas lift stools: lower them right down to tuck away, and raise them for use. See gas lift stools.
- Stackable or slim metal stools: great for studios and rentals.
What to avoid
- Stools with arms. They’re wider and won’t tuck under.
- Bulky upholstered or tub-style seats in dark colours.
- Bar-height stools (73cm+ seat) at a 90cm bench. They won’t fit underneath.
Space-saving picks
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Sale
Tokyo Timber Kitchen Counter Stool (Chocolate)
Original price was: $324.00 AUD.$288.96 AUDCurrent price is: $288.96 AUD. -
Sale
Tokyo Timber Kitchen Counter Stool (Light Pecan)
Original price was: $324.00 AUD.$288.96 AUDCurrent price is: $288.96 AUD. -
Sale
2x Bar Stools Upholstered Stool Counter Seat Kitchen Dining Chairs by Artiss
Original price was: $249.99 AUD.$225.96 AUDCurrent price is: $225.96 AUD.
FAQs
What are the best bar stools for a small kitchen?
Slim, backless counter-height stools that tuck fully under the bench, in light colours or natural timber.
How wide should a bar stool be for a small kitchen?
A seat around 35–40cm wide works well. Allow about 55–60cm of bench per stool.
Should bar stools fit under the counter?
In a small kitchen, yes. Choose a seat 25–30cm below the underside of the bench so the stool slides fully underneath.
Do bar stools with backs work in small kitchens?
Low-back stools can work. Full-height backs and arms stop the stool tucking under, so they take up more floor space.
More answers in our bar stool buying guide & FAQ, or read counter stool vs bar stool height and how many stools fit your island.