Wooden stools: versatile pieces that deserve more attention
Wooden stools are among the most versatile pieces of furniture. Their many shapes make them useful in almost any room, often in ways we do not immediately think of – from reaching a high shelf to serving as a practical bedside table.
This guide explores the different ways to use wooden stools and what to consider when buying one.
Buying a wooden stool from a design shop: what to consider
1. How do you want to use your stool?
2. Outdoor use: our recommendations
3. Design and shape
4. Material and colour
5. Wood care: easier than you think
6. Leading brands
7. The benefits of Connox wooden stools
1. How do you want to use your stool?
Unlike many other pieces of furniture, stools are compact. This makes it easy to move them around and use them for different purposes.
Wooden stools are traditionally used as seats. If you need extra seating when more guests arrive than expected, they make a practical addition to your existing furniture. Many are stackable and can be stored in a spare corner when not in use. The Fionia folding stool by Skagerak is particularly useful when space is limited.
A solid wood stool can also make it easier to reach high shelves without stretching or climbing. Unlike a ladder, it can double as a surface for storage, making it a useful addition without taking up space. Before buying, check the maximum weight capacity on the product page in our shop.
How about using one as an unusual side table? Wooden stools with a flat top provide a stable surface and can easily serve as a small table. They are useful when you need extra space but do not have room for another piece of furniture. Place flowers or a light on one to make it an eye-catching accent.
2. Outdoor stools: our recommendations
For outdoor use, we recommend teak stools. The high oil content makes teak weather-resistant and known for its durability. Teak also has a high natural rubber content, which gives the wood an oily quality and a robust surface. You will not have to rush to move your garden furniture indoors if the summer weather suddenly changes. Unlike untreated local woods, teak is also resistant to fungal growth and wood pests. The tree-trunk stools by Jan Kurtz bring out the natural character of a garden or balcony: they are modern and minimalist, yet rustic and understated.
3. Design and shape
From understated to striking and classic to futuristic, choose a stool that suits your interior style or use it to create a deliberate contrast. As the shape affects how you can use a wooden stool, decide whether you need a versatile or more specialised design. For example, the comfort of a wooden seating stool depends on the shape of its seat. Wooden stools with a moulded seat are ergonomically shaped, but less versatile than models with a flat seat. The Cobbler stool has an ergonomically shaped seat designed for comfortable sitting. Height-adjustable swivel stools such as the Jerry The Wild Bunch stool by Magis also let you adjust the seat height to suit you.
4. Material and colour
Wood is a lightweight material that can still support a considerable load. It retains its appearance over the years, and oiling can help extend its life.
Different woods, such as oak, teak and beech, offer a wide range of colours and natural character, from rustic to refined. Cushions and upholstery can make a stool more comfortable and help you personalise its look. Choose a seat pad that complements your interior for a cohesive room scheme. Alongside natural wood, painted designs are also available, such as the white Baby Rocket wooden stool.
5. Wood care: easier than you think
We recommend treating wooden stools with wood oil regularly, or at least once a year. If they are exposed to the weather, a patina or colour change may develop without care. Apply the oil with a cloth or brush and leave it to dry for a few hours. Changes in the wood's colour do not affect the furniture's stability, but can alter its characteristic tones. Our guide to teak care includes useful tips for looking after designer wooden stools.
6. Leading brands
The long-established brand Vitra is known around the world for its design classics and high quality. Its timeless pieces are designed to be enjoyed for generations. When you choose one, you are investing in a piece of design history as well as a stool.
Skagerak is known for its passion for wood and high standards of quality. The Danish brand brings Scandinavian design to both indoor and outdoor spaces. It is also committed to responsible production and conserving resources.
Jan Kurtz makes selected designer wooden stools with natural, weather-resistant materials. The designs stand out for their practical function. Their rustic appearance is balanced by clean lines for a contemporary look. The minimalist designs by Jan Kurtz are available at accessible prices.
7. The benefits of Connox wooden stools
- A carefully selected range of stools from leading design brands
- High-quality wooden stools by well-known designers
- Simple, direct online shopping
- Personal support from our customer service team
- Fair delivery costs
- Secure payments with SSL encryption
- Delivery in just a few working days
Shopping advice from Connox
Would you like to buy a wooden stool online but need a little help? Contact our customer service team at any time. We will be happy to advise you, make recommendations and answer your questions. Have your chosen product delivered straight to your home in just a few working days.
