What Is Counter Height? Counter Height vs Bar Height
What is counter height vs. bar height in regard to kitchen and dining room sets? How do you know which is best for your space and your family's needs? The interior design experts at Mor Furniture for Less are here to answer all these questions and more, and clear up the common confusion surrounding the difference between bar height vs. counter height vs. standard seating.
Some of the most popular searches regarding counter height and bar height seating are:
- "What is bar height?"
- "Bar height vs counter height–are they the same?"
- "How tall is a bar height table? What about counter height?"
- "Counter vs bar height–which is best for my kitchen/dining area?"
Both counter height and bar height furniture pieces have standard measurements that are applicable at various retailers and across manufacturing brands, but the two are not the same. This standardized sizing makes it easy to shop for items such as matching stools or chairs, or a new table when necessary while knowing precisely what you're going to get. Keep reading to learn more about counter height vs. bar height and get unique styling tips for your space.
Counter Height vs. Bar Height: Measurements
There are generally three different height measurements for kitchen and dining room tables:
- Standard height (also sometimes called dining height)
- Counter height
- Bar height
The "height" refers to how far off the ground the eating surface of the table stands. The standard height for a kitchen or dining room table stands between 28 and 30 inches.
What is counter height? Counter height tables are anywhere between 34 and 36 inches off the ground, while bar height is even taller than that. Bar height tables have an eating surface that is anywhere from 40 to 42 inches off the ground. Counter height is the measurement equal to your standard kitchen counters. In fact, many people choose to use open counter space or room around a kitchen island to incorporate extra seating. This is an excellent option because it allows you to maximize the area you have with a few simple pieces of furniture, while transforming the kitchen into a gathering area that accommodates homework and meal times.
To get a picture in your head of what each height table looks like, first, imagine most dining room or kitchen tables you see. This is standard height or dining height. Next, imagine your kitchen counters, where you most likely prepare food, store kitchen appliances, and more. Named appropriately, this is counter height. Bar height is a little bit of a stretch up, close to what you'll see in restaurants and pubs where people gather for a drink.
Seating for Counter Height vs. Bar Height
The height of your table will impact the height of the seats you purchase to match if you're buying them separately. Seat height refers to how far the cushion area of the seat stands off the ground. When selecting bar vs. counter height, you want either of the following:
- For bar tables: Bar height stools or chairs for bar tables
- For counters, islands, and counter height tables: Counter height stools or chairs
Getting the wrong seating can make the space look awkward and can cause some physical discomfort for diners.
With the right seating, your counter height eaters won't have their feet dangling, knees banging, or elbows swinging. They'll have just the right amount of space to snack, sip, and chat.
What Is Counter Height Seating?
Counter height seating is precisely 24 to 27 inches tall, while bar height seating is 28 to 33 inches and standard or dining height chairs are 16 to 19 inches from the ground to the cushion area of the chair. If you're unsure, the general rule is to leave a 9 to 13-inch gap between the table and the cushion area of the seat to allow for sitting room and space to move.
Popular seating options for eating areas that are taller than standard height include dining stools that are suited for counter height spaces, as well as barstools for bar height areas.
What Is Bar Height Seating?
Knowing the difference between bar height vs. counter height for seating arrangements is crucial, as they frequently need clarification for one another. However, buying the incorrect seats for each can lead to awkward kitchen setups that look and feel off. How tall is a bar-height table? Bar height tables are 40 to 42 inches tall, and you should use stools or chairs around 28 to 33 inches with them. This makes bar-height seating taller than counter height.
Pros and Cons of Counter Height vs. Bar Height Dining Sets
There are several advantages to choosing counter height and bar height dining sets and tables instead of standard height pieces. The most often cited benefit is that they're great in smaller spaces, like apartments, townhomes, and areas that don't have open floor plans. Bar height and counter height pieces can often double as prep areas in the kitchen, providing more space to cook, display items, and more. Additionally, these seating areas are less formal than their standard height counterparts, encouraging individuals to gather and hold conversations. This is a significant advantage if you don't often sit down for traditional family meals, are often on the go, like to host weekend parties at your place, and more.
Some people view not having a formal dining area as a con when looking at a space, while others see it as being more modern and multi-functional. It all comes down to the unique needs of your home and family, and what you will be using the dining area for most often.
Tips for Choosing Kitchen and Dining Sets
If you're looking at counter height vs. bar height vs. standard height kitchen and dining sets, you may be wondering which is best for your home. The questions below can help you achieve the look you're going for.
- What will you use the space for most often? Is it a homework spot for the kids or a formal area for guests to gather for holiday dinners?
- Tip: Counter height eating spaces are great for less formal, multi-functional areas.
- How much space is present in the room? Are you looking for a dining set that's more compact or something expansive and decorative?
- Tip: Counter height dining works well in small spaces, and saves plenty of extra floor room. It's also a great addition to larger areas that need a finishing touch and have extra counter space or island seating available.
- How much seating do you need? Remember that you should place chairs and stools approximately 24 inches apart once they're at the table to leave ample leg and elbow room.
- Tip: Counter height seating is great for smaller groups. Sets of four-to-six chairs look great together.
- What vibe are you going for? Are you looking for something more traditional or does something more modern and eclectic suit your style?
- Tip: Counter height dining is a modern way to include an eating space in your home. For those who shy away from the ultra-traditional, this is the way to go.
- Will this be a standalone dining room table or will you also be using this space to prep food, act as a buffet table, and more?
- Tip: If you don't want to sacrifice counter space in your kitchen, there's no worries here! Counter height seating gives your versatility and flexibility on how to use your space.
- What color palette do you like best? We have dining sets available in a variety of colors and materials to match every taste.
- Tip: For a cohesive look, find pieces that complement your existing color and interior design style. Mor Furniture for Less has endless options to choose from.
- Who will be using the space most frequently, children or adults?
- Tip: Counter seating is great for everyone. The kids can pull up a chair to chat while you cook, keeping them within eyesight, and adults can perch to grab a snack. Everyone can join for meal time to eat together.
Counter Height Seating: Frequently Asked Questions
Counter-height seating is a contemporary trend that adds a stylish touch to your eating space and creates a casual, practical environment. This versatile seating option is perfect for both spacious and compact areas, making it an excellent choice for any home. If you're considering incorporating counter-height seating into your space, delve into these frequently asked questions and expert tips to master the look.
Q: How Much Space Do You Need for Counter Seating?
A: Counter-height seating is a stylish interior design choice. It's also a practical one. It's especially beneficial in eating spaces with islands, open floor plans, and half-walls. Allow 24 inches of horizontal space for each seat to ensure comfort and avoid overcrowding. For example, an 8-foot counter space can comfortably accommodate four people.
Q: What Is the Minimum Overhang for Counter Seating?
A: The overhang is the part of the counter extending beyond the cabinetry underneath. For counter seating, a minimum of 12 inches of overhang is recommended. However, many people prefer 15+ inches for optimal seating comfort.
Q: What Is Seat vs. Counter Height?
A: For counter-height seating, the cushion of your seat should be about 10 inches below the overhang. This allows room for most people to sit comfortably without banging their knees on the underside of the counter.
Q: What Are Some Considerations for Counter Height Seating?
A: When considering counter height seating for your eating space, remember a few key factors. Your kitchen layout is crucial, and counter-height seating works best in open areas. Ensure there are 36 inches of clear walking space behind all chairs or stools and on the ends of the counter for safety. Counter seating is also a smart choice for compact spaces that may not have a defined dining area. Many kitchens feature counters that serve as half walls, creating an excellent location for seating that saves floor space, eliminating the need for bulky dining tables. Counter-height seating is ideal for smaller groups in informal settings.
Shop Mor Furniture for Less Today
Here at Mor Furniture for Less, we're committed to helping every individual and family turn their house into a home. What better way to get started than revamping your eating space? It's where people gather to bond over a meal, have family game night, study for the big test, and so much more. Where you eat is integral to your life, and creating an atmosphere that meets your needs and speaks to your style is key.
Our friendly design associates are here to help you each step of the way. Whether you're looking for a full new dining set or are looking to expand seating at a set you already have, Mor Furniture for Less has just the pieces you need to complete the look of your dreams.
Browse our selection of dining room sets online or schedule a concierge appointment today.