Stools

Designer stools – how to find the right model for your home

1. More than just a seat: multifunctional stools
2. Choosing the right stool height
3. The right material for your stool
4. One piece of furniture, many uses
5. Summary – what to consider when buying a designer stool

1. More than just a seat: multifunctional stools

Many designer stools are all-rounders with extra built-in functions. Step stools (like picture 2) are handy helpers in rooms with tall cupboards, such as the kitchen. Stools with storage space for small items (like picture 3) help prevent clutter, especially in hallways, living rooms and children's rooms, while stools with a flat top (like picture 1) can quickly double as a side table for glasses, magazines and books. Children's stools in particular can still be used as a surface or a kind of step once the children have outgrown them.

2. Choosing the right stool height

Stools come in a wide range of seat heights, depending on how you want to use them. If you want to use a stool like a chair at a table, a height of around 45 cm is ideal, while models between 65 and 75 cm high are suitable as bar stools for counters, high tables or kitchen worktops at a height of around 90 cm. Height-adjustable models are particularly practical here.

As a footrest or extra seat in the living room, a height of no more than 40 cm makes sense – and poufs in particular add a cosy touch. If you also want to use your stool as a step, make sure the first step is around 20 to 24 cm high.

3. The right material for your stool

One important question to ask yourself when buying a designer stool is: "What material should it be made of?" The choice is huge, ranging from wood (picture 1) and a combination of stainless steel and upholstered leather (picture 2) to lacquered steel (picture 3) or plastic (picture 4). For indoor use, you can choose any material. For the garden, terrace or balcony, stools made of durable teak or coated metal are the best choice, as they won't corrode. Plastic stools are also suitable for outdoor use and come in a wide range of colours as well as unusual shapes and textures. Like wooden and metal stools, they are also very easy to wipe clean, whereas fabric elements wear over time and stains are harder to remove.

"Choose the material wisely to get more out of your stool. With metal, plastic or even the right wood, you can use your stool not only as a seat, side table and surface, but also take it outside – where it's just as versatile in the garden or on the balcony as it is indoors." - Viktoria, interior expert

4. One piece of furniture, many uses

Stools don't just come in different heights – this flexible piece of furniture also has a wide variety of uses. Side table, bedside table, step, seat or plant stand: hardly any other piece of furniture is as versatile as the stool. If you want to use your stool as a side table, look for a flat seat without any dips and a sturdy material – so no wicker or fabric – as otherwise glasses, cups and the like can easily tip over. Also avoid stools made of delicate materials that scratch easily, such as acrylic glass.

If you'd like to use your stool as a plant stand, make sure the size of the seat is in proportion to the plant pot and not much larger. If the stool will mainly be used for sitting, an ergonomic model with upholstery or a contoured seat is the best choice.

When it comes to seating comfort, upholstered stools are the clear winners. These particularly comfortable models look great in the living room, bedroom and dining room. Fully upholstered stools work well next to the sofa, while stools with an upholstered seat make an excellent addition at the table. One special variant is the pouf: unlike an upholstered stool, it is padded all the way round and is lower in height.

5. Summary – what to consider when buying a designer stool

• Choose a stool made of coated metal, plastic or durable wood if you want to use it outdoors as well as indoors. These materials are also easier to clean and care for than upholstered stools. For greater seating comfort, upholstered stools are the best choice.
• For extra functions, choose a stool with specific features: stools with storage space help prevent clutter, two-step stools double as a step, and stools with a flat top can quickly be turned into a side table.
• Let the intended use guide you when choosing the right seat height. As a rule of thumb, the higher the nearby furniture or table, the higher the stool. The range is roughly 30 to 75 cm.
• Before you buy, think about what the main function of your stool will be (e.g. side table, bedside table, step, seat or plant stand), then choose a model with the right features.
• From an ergonomic point of view, upholstered stools are recommended.

Buy designer stools online at Connox – your benefits at a glance

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Shopping advice at Connox

Would you like to buy a designer stool online but need some help? Our customer service team is always happy to help. We'll support you with advice while you shop, make recommendations and answer your questions quickly. Then simply sit back and have your chosen item delivered straight to your door.