Page 158 - South Mississippi Living - May, 2022

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THE RULES ON STOOLS story by Holly Harrison and Shannon Stage
Defined as a seat with no back and no arms intended for one person,
the stool has been one of the most functional forms
of seating ever invented. A simple seat with three or four legs, the stool remains a home essential, but one that has undergone an astonishing transformation over the last fifty years!
Decades ago, when kitchens were most often located at the back of the house, away from living areas, the stool was an efficient way to reach tall cabinets. It was
a perch for the
occasional kitchen guest to visit with the “lady of the house.” As larger countertops began to accommodate snacking and simple meals, the stool was the perfect seating option that would fit neatly under the countertop. Today’s kitchen has
become a stylish hub of the home, often sharing space with the living area and large kitchen islands have become prep and dining areas, gathering places
for entertaining,
and the perfect
spot for homework supervision and family interaction. The growing importance of a multi-functional kitchen has pushed stools into the design spotlight.
Bar and counter stools are the finishing touches
that can achieve design goals and complete the “look” or “mood” of a kitchen. They are no longer a simple, basic purchase. There is a
unique stool style for every design aesthetic. Whether you are shooting for the farmhouse, upscale urban, beach bungalow, retro look, or a vibe all your own, there are stool basics you need to know.
HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT HEIGHT:
STEP 1.
Measure under the edge of your counter to the floor.
STEP 2.
Subtract 10” from the above length and that is the tallest your seat should be.
If the difference between the counter height & height of your stool is 15” or more, your seat will be too low!