All luxury interior designers and design enthusiasts would agree that true luxury comes down to the finest details. It’s all about the subtle interplay between form and function, the careful selection of material, good design and the finest craftsmanship.
In this world of luxury interior design, modern stools and bar stools have truly evolved in terms of both design and functionality. What was once considered utilitarian seats, have now become an important part of contemporary home design.
At FCI London, we understand that our clients seek more than just furniture. They expect long-term investments and timeless pieces that will elevate their living spaces in multiple ways. Bringing comfort, style and multi-functionality, our curated collection of luxury stools and bar stools are perfect for modern interiors.
Our showroom is home to exquisite collections from some of the world’s best brands such as Cattelan Italia, Leolux and Silvano Luxury. The stools from each of these brands are a testament to their meticulous craftsmanship, unparalleled luxury and timeless elegance.
Whether you prefer the organic warmth of hand-carved wood, the sleek allure of polished metal, or the sumptuous look of the finest upholstery, our collection offers a diverse range of styles and materials to complement the most refined tastes.
One of the best parts about the versatility of stool design is that you can find something for every room and style.
These products are no longer limited to just the kitchens or bars - rather they have gracefully made their way into all types of living spaces.
The heart of the contemporary home, the kitchen, is now a multifunctional space. More and more families are opting for open-plan kitchens which have enough room for casual dining and social gatherings. Luxury kitchen stools, like the Scott Gold Finish Bar Stool by Eichholtz, have become an integral part of such spaces, providing a comfortable and stylish perch for enjoying a morning coffee, catching up with family, or overseeing homework while dinner simmers on the stovetop. When selecting kitchen stools, consider the height of your countertop or island, opting for stools that allow people to comfortably tuck their legs under the counter while maintaining a relaxed posture.
In luxury living rooms, modern stools perform more than just a traditional seating role, instead, they’re used as accent pieces. The most common type of stool here is the footstool which is often used in combination with armchairs to create cosy reading areas or just a quiet lounging spot.
But other options, like the Wgs Stool by Gallotti & Radice, can also be used as a stylish side table, providing a platform for showcasing art, books, displaying fresh flowers, or simply offering a place to rest a cup of coffee. If you have enough space, you can even bring in a cluster of stools for a casual conversation area or to encourage intimate gatherings.
Breakfast bars are now a common feature in modern homes, especially those with open floor plans, where these stools serve as visual and functional dividers between the kitchen and dining areas. They are also often a part of the kitchen itself where they might be set up along with an island or dining table. A luxury breakfast bar stool, like the Max Wood Base by Italforma, usually features clean lines, a simple design and a backrest so you can comfortably sit and enjoy your breakfast or evening cocktails.
Modern dressing tables deserve a touch of both glamour and functionality which is easily achievable with small stools. These are best suited for smaller tables in bedroom corners or in walk-in wardrobes where they can be taken out as and when needed.
While they’re not suitable for hours of sittings, they are comfortable enough if you want to use them for applying makeup, styling your hair, putting on your shoes or just enjoying a few quiet moments of contemplation. Our designers recommend stools with padded seats and simple designs that will easily complement your space, like the Godwin Pouf by Longhi or the Eddie Pouf by Laskasas.
More and more of our clients are opting for kitchen islands and raised countertops as it has become a norm for contemporary kitchen design. The islands in particular offer so much multifunctionality - you can integrate them with the latest appliances, add as much storage as you need and use them as a space where you prepare meals or spend time with friends and family while enjoying food and drinks. And of course, luxury counter stools add to this experience by offering comfortable seating that is designed specifically for such elevated surfaces. The Dante Bar Stool by Eichholtz, for example, brings both style and functionality to your kitchen.
For those who plan on extending their living places outside the boundaries of the wall - a beautiful outdoor bar table with complementing bar stools is a must-have. Whether you place them by the pool outside or on the terrace - these stools are perfect spots for evening drinks, morning coffees and much more.
Outdoor bar stools from high-end brands are made from weather-resistant materials like teak, powder-coated aluminium, or woven resin. These materials are also treated with special chemicals to improve their durability. You can choose from a variety of styles and colours but one of our personal favourites is the Ellender Bar Stool by Evanista.
Now that we’ve discussed the type of stools according to the rooms that they’re placed in, we feel that it’s equally important to classify them according to materials. The reason is that all too often, our clients want stools in specific materials either because of their personal preferences or to match the aesthetics of the space where the stools will be placed. This allows our clients to create a cohesive design narrative which truly reflects their personal style while complementing the other decor elements in the space.
Wooden stools are perhaps the oldest in terms of materials and the first ever stools were probably made from wood. But even today, very few materials can match the inherent warmth and natural beauty that it brings. One of the few things that have changed over the years includes the design perspective - modern-day wood stools have a very simple and sleek design. The other thing is the focus on sustainability and the quality of wood as more and more brands are opting for high-quality and sustainably sourced woods as the raw materials for their stools. Today, you also get to choose from a variety of wood species, each with its unique grain pattern, colour and inherent characteristics. For example, rich mahogany evokes a sense of traditional grandeur, while walnut exudes a modern sensibility. For a touch of Scandinavian minimalism, we recommend that you consider pale oak or ash.
Metal too has made its way into stool manufacturing and this comes as no surprise because the sleek allure of metal has always been a hallmark of contemporary design. Luxury metal stools exhibit a sense of industrial chic, adding a touch of urban sophistication to any interior - be it your bar area or the kitchen. Most individuals prefer polished chrome finishes because of the subtle glamour that they offer while reflecting light and bringing visual interest. Other popular options include brushed nickel or blackened steel which have an understated elegance - perfect for more minimalist spaces. Metal stools are particularly useful in high-traffic areas, especially busy kitchens, because of their inherent durability.
For spaces like the living room - you expect an unparalleled level of comfort along with the luxury element and this makes upholstered stools a good fit. Modern stools can be upholstered in a range of materials - from sumptuous velvets to plush chenilles and from sophisticated linens to durable weaves, this world of upholstery offers a kaleidoscope of textures, colours and patterns to complement your décor.
Up until a few years back, most clients would avoid upholstered stools for fear of damage due to spills but that issue is resolved when you opt for upholstery from reliable brands like Cattelan Italia or Gamma and Dandy. By utilising the latest technologies, these brands offer the most up-to-date upholstery that can easily be cleaned with a damp cloth.
Similar to wood in terms of the timeless elegance and enduring style - good quality leather exudes a sense of refined sophistication but the best part is that it improves with age. Luxury brands allow you to choose from a range of different leather types, such as, glove soft leather, nubuck leather and synthetic or faux leather. Full-grain leather, the highest grade, develops a beautiful patina over time. For a more vibrant or bold look, consider leather stools in unexpected jewel tones, like rich burgundy, deep navy, or even emerald green.
When it comes to leather, seeing is believing which is why we recommend visiting our showroom to browse our huge sample library to touch and feel all the different types of leather as this allows you to choose the best upholstery for your bespoke stools.
All too often, we underestimate the design potential of plastic. When designed and manufactured by real experts, plastic stools can be a stand-out feature in any place. Lately, they have been particularly popular for outdoor searing. Crafted from moulded acrylic or polycarbonate, luxury plastic stools offer a lightweight yet surprisingly durable seating solution. Their versatility allows them to seamlessly blend into a variety of interior styles, from minimalist and modern to eclectic and bohemian. Clear acrylic stools have also been trending lately because of the touch of ethereal elegance they bring to the space while bright and vibrant coloured plastic stools have their own fanbase because of the bold and playful energy that they bring.
With all the options in the market, selecting the perfect luxury stools or bar stools can often be tricky, especially when you want to strike the perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality. To help you out, our expert designers have shared some tips below:
Perhaps the most important factor when buying a stool is choosing the right height as this impacts both your comfort levels and the aesthetics of your space. Counter stools are usually 60 to 66cm in height and this allows them to pair well with kitchen islands and other raised countertops. You and your guests can comfortably rest your feet on the floor or the footrest at this height while maintaining a relaxed posture. Bar stools are comparatively higher than this, typically between 70 and 76 cm. So before you go shopping for new stools, make sure to measure the height of the counter or bar where the stools are going to be placed and discuss these measurements with a design expert.
While it’s not hard to find comfortable chairs, the same can not be said for stools. You’ll find many well-designed stools but comfortable stools can be difficult to identify. If you’re planning on using the stools for longer durations, look for features like seat padding, back support, armrests and footrests as these can significantly improve your seating experience. For offices or home offices, you can consider swivel stools with adjustable height mechanisms as they allow for ease of movement and conversation.
The materials and finishes that you choose for your stools will play the main role in defining their aesthetic. When making the choice, it’s important to think of the other furniture and decor style of the room, your lifestyle and the overall design narrative that you’re planning to create. You’ll generally find more customisation options with upholstered stools as there are hundreds of fabric and leather finishes as well as colours to choose from. If you’re going for a non-upholstered one, you’ll also find a range of finishes for wood and colour choices for plastic stools.
From sleek and minimalist to classic and maximalist - luxury stools and bar stools can be found in a myriad of styles and designs. Once again, the decision should be taken while taking your existing decor into account. For example, if your space gravitates towards clean lines and understated elegance, you would want the same for your stools so that they complement the rest of your furniture and create a harmonious and cohesive look.
Modern luxury stools will often come with additional features that enhance their functionality and overall appeal. Here are some features to look out for:
Swivel stools are the perfect choice if you want to engage in conversations while sitting. So these could be used in meeting rooms or with kitchen islands and breakfast bars - allowing you to socialise without having to reposition the entire stools.
Adjustable stools refer to the ones that come with variable height settings so they can be adjusted according to individual needs and preferences. Some adjustable stools even feature a gas lift mechanism, allowing for smooth and effortless height adjustments. The Torso Bar Stool by Potocco is a client favourite at our showroom as it’s available with a metal swivel central leg with a gas lift system.
In luxury interiors, comfort is always a priority and it becomes even more essential when it comes to seating. Of course, this applies to bar stools too, especially if you’ll be using them for extended periods of sitting. Luxury stools and bar stools offer a range of back support options, from full backs that provide optimal support, such as the Balmore Roche Black Velvet Bar Stool, to half backs and low backs that offer a balance between comfort and a less visually obtrusive design. When choosing stools with back support, consider the height of the back in relation to the counter or bar.
Just like back support, arm support is also a great feature for those who prioritise comfort. And one of the best things about modern bar stool collections is that you can find them with arm support. One of our designers’ favourites is the Wanda bar stool by Cattelan Italia as it beautifully merges clean lines with a curved back and organically curved arms - giving it a very unique look.
The world of luxury design is constantly evolving, with new styles and trends emerging to captivate interior designers, design enthusiasts and discerning homeowners. Here are a few of the most popular styles and trends that we’ve observed lately:
Modern stools often feature clean lines, geometric shapes and a minimalist aesthetic, like the Sila Bar Stool by Sovet Italia. Materials like moulded plastic, acrylic, metal and light-coloured woods are popular choices, reflecting a desire for simplicity and understated elegance. The simple design allows these stools to easily blend with any type of modern interior design scheme.
For those who appreciate timeless elegance and enduring style, classic and traditional stools and bar stools offer a touch of old-world charm. Look for details like turned legs, intricate carvings, luxurious upholstery and rich wood finishes. One great example is the Colony stool by Eicholtz which features a vintage design and a beautiful honey-coloured rattan as the main material.
The industrial style, with its raw and utilitarian aesthetic, has been gaining immense popularity in recent years. These stools usually feature materials like leather or reclaimed wood with metallic accents or base structures. One of our most popular bar stools in this category is the Gilv by Evanista, featuring high gloss lacquered legs, fabric upholstery and stainless steel bars.
Amongst all the different types of wooden stools, oak has continued to reign supreme as its natural grain patterns and enduring appeal are simply unmatched. If you wish to bring rustic elegance or an organic touch to any space, then premium-quality oak stools in modern designs should be your first choice. Oak stools are also much stronger and more durable than their counterparts.
In the past year, we’ve seen a huge demand for blue and pink bar stools. Then there are some colours which never go out of style like cream, gold or white bar stools as these luxurious hues bring depth and a sense of opulence to any luxury space. One surprising trend though has been the green bar stool which might be attributed to the trend of nature-inspired interiors.
While traditionally, wood and leather have been the main preferences, we’ve seen velvet bar stools take centre stage in recent years. Particularly when it comes to luxury interiors, velvet upholstered stools bring a touch of luxe that’s hard to replicate with other fabrics. Grey, black, blue, pink and even orange velvet bar stools seem to have become designers’ favourites.
When it comes to luxury furniture and interior design, FCI London stands apart as a destination for discerning individuals seeking unparalleled quality, exquisite design and a truly bespoke experience. Our commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of our business, from our carefully luxury stools and bar stools and bar stools to our team of award-winning, expert interior designers who possess a wealth of knowledge and experience.
We understand that your home is a reflection of your unique style and sensibilities and we are dedicated to helping you create a space that is both beautiful and deeply personal. When you choose FCI London, you're not just buying furniture; you're investing in timeless elegance, enduring quality and a legacy of exceptional craftsmanship.
Luxury stools and bar stools, like any investment, require proper care and maintenance to ensure their longevity and preserve their beauty for years to come.
Regular dusting with a soft, dry cloth will prevent the build-up of dirt and grime, while prompt attention to spills will prevent staining.
For upholstered stools, follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions to avoid damaging delicate fabrics.
Wooden stools will benefit from occasional polishing with a high-quality furniture polish, while metal stools can be wiped down with a damp cloth and dried thoroughly.
By following these simple care tips, you can ensure that your luxury stools and bar stools remain a source of pride and enjoyment for generations to come.
From getting your proportions right to nailing your style, our design team is at your disposal to help you find the perfect stools and bar stools. Take advantage of our free consultation service by visiting our award-winning showroom today.
A stool is a type of seating so it can be considered somewhat similar to a chair but it will usually be without a backrest or arm supports. As compared to chairs, stools are also more compact which makes them better suited for compact spaces.
Good quality stools can be found at specialised furniture stores, design boutiques and larger home retailers in London. Consider visiting showrooms to assess the build quality and comfort before purchasing.
If you’re considering luxury bar stools from the world’s leading brands, you’ll find the best range at the FCI London showroom. You can visit us in person or book an online consultation to browse our huge collection and sample library.
When buying stools, consider the height relative to your counter, comfort, materials used, style and overall durability. Ensure they match your space's aesthetic while offering adequate comfort and support.
Shipping options for bar stools typically include standard delivery, express shipping and sometimes white-glove service, like unpacking and assembly. Costs and delivery times vary depending on the retailer and your location.
Counter stools are generally 24-27 inches high and are designed to fit under standard counter heights of 36 inches. Ensure a comfortable space of 9-12 inches between the seat and the countertop.
The best style depends on your decor. Choose stools that complement your interior design, whether modern, industrial, or traditional. Comfort, material and functionality should also guide your decision.
Interior designers recommend matching bar stools with your countertop, existing furniture and overall interior style. Consider coordinating colours, materials and design elements like wood tones or metal finishes to create a cohesive look.
Look for bar stools that offer comfort, the correct height, sturdy construction and appropriate materials for your space. Consider the style and how it integrates with your decor, as well as ease of cleaning and maintenance.
Determine the number of bar stools based on your counter's length, allowing about 24-30 inches per stool for comfortable seating. Ensure there's enough space for guests to sit and move without feeling cramped.
Stools are a versatile seating option that can save space and add a modern, casual vibe to your dining area. They're ideal for a kitchen island, breakfast bar, or a small dining space where traditional chairs may not fit.
Counter stools are shorter than bar stools, typically 24-27 inches, designed for standard counter heights. Bar stools are taller, usually 28-32 inches, suited for higher bar surfaces. You should choose stools based on your counter height to ensure comfort.
Yes, stools come in various types, including backless, with backs, swivel, stationary, adjustable height and fixed height. They are also made in different materials including wood, metal, plastic and upholstered options, catering to personal needs and styles. They can also be classified on the basis of the space where they're used, for example, the term ‘kitchen bar stools’ is specific for stools that are used in kitchens.
At FCI London, our greatest reward is the satisfaction of our clients. We take immense pride in the positive feedback we receive, a testament to the quality of our products, the expertise of our team and our unwavering commitment to exceptional customer service.
Our clients consistently praise our attention to detail, our willingness to go the extra mile and our ability to translate their visions into reality. We believe that furniture should be more than just objects; it should be a source of joy, comfort and enduring beauty. It is this belief that has driven us for more than four decades, to continually strive for excellence in everything that we do.
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