Just like the fairy tale of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, choosing the right kitchen stool isn’t as simple as spotting the prettiest one and plopping it in your kitchen. Oh, no! You’ve got to find the one that’s “just right.” And the key to this magical match? It’s all in the height and size.
Why Does Height Matter?
Imagine sitting on a stool where your knees are up to your chest or where you have to perform a mini-jump to perch on it. It doesn’t paint a pretty picture, does it? The height of your stool impacts not just your comfort but also the overall aesthetic and functionality of your kitchen.
Getting the Measurements Right
To find your “just right” stool, grab a trusty tape measure and follow these guidelines:
Measure Your Counter: Start by measuring from the floor to the underside of your counter. This is your counter height.
Deduct the Sit Space: The optimal space between your counter and your stool seat, also known as the sit space, should be about 23-28 cm (9-11 inches). This leaves enough room for your knees and for easy, casual movements. So, deduct this from your counter height, and voila, you have the perfect stool height!
Consider the Stature of the Users: Remember, a stool perfect for a 6-foot-tall person might not work for a child or a shorter adult. If you have a diverse range of heights in your home, consider adjustable stools that can accommodate everyone comfortably.
Width and Depth are Equally Important: Allow about 50-60 cm (20-24 inches) of width for each stool to prevent a game of elbow jostling. As for depth, if you’re going for stools with backs, ensure there’s enough room to pull them out and sit comfortably.
Dealing with Non-Standard Situations
Just like how every pot has its lid, every kitchen counter has its stool, no matter how unconventional the height. Here’s a general guideline:
Table-Height Counters (28-30 inches): Go for short stools that are 45-50 cm (18-20 inches) high.
Counter-Height Counters (36 inches): Counter stools, typically 60-66 cm (24-26 inches) high, are your match.
Bar-Height Counters (40-42 inches): Bar stools that are 70-76 cm (28-30 inches) high are the way to go.
Extra-Tall Counters (44-46 inches): Look for extra-tall bar stools, which are typically 80-86 cm (32-34 inches) high.
Finding the perfect stool is a bit of science and a bit of art, just like baking the perfect scone! Get the measurements right, consider the users, remember your comfort, and you’re on your way to finding the stool that’s “just right”. Now, doesn’t that sound like a happy ending?
