Have you ever pulled a stool up to a table only to realize that your legs are now uncomfortably close to the table or, alternatively, you are now awkwardly sitting far below the table surface?
There is often much confusion surrounding the various colloquial names for stool and table heights. Is this table counter height or bar height? How high is a café height chair?
In this post, we’ll break down the difference between counter height, bar height and café height tables and stools.
Bar height tables and counters, also known as pub height, are typically 41″ to 46″ inches off the floor. If you’ve ever gathered at a sports bar to watch a game or match with friends, you’ve probably sat at a bar-height table. Not surprisingly, bar-height counters and tables are typically found in bars and restaurants.
Counter Height Tables & Stools
While the exact measurements vary from manufacturer to manufacturer a table with a surface height of between 34” to 39” is considered to be counter height. These tables are generally meant to correspond with the average height of a kitchen or reception counter.
Counter height tables are often used as either an extra prep surface in or around a kitchen or to provide a less formal atmosphere for people to gather around. People are commonly more comfortable socializing around a counter height table than a standard height table as there is a less distinct height difference between people who may be sitting and standing.
If you are looking for stools for a counter height table, you should look for something with a seat height between 24” and 29.”
Bar Height Tables & Stools
As with counter height tables, there isn’t one exact height or even range of heights that manufacturers agree upon. However, most manufacturers have set their bar height tables to have a surface height that is within the scope of 41” to 46.”
Bar height tables are named as such because they are most frequently found in bars and restaurants. They are used to encourage casual conversation as the height of the corresponding bar height stools (30” to 36” high seats) cause those seated to remain very close to eye level with those standing. It should be noted, however, that some people find it uncomfortable to sit in a chair/stool that keeps their feet this high above ground level.
Bar Height vs Counter Height Stools: Which one is right for you?
FAQ
What is a good height for a bar counter?
What is the standard height of a restaurant bar counter?
What is the difference between pub height and bar height?
What is the average bar stool height?
How tall is a bar counter?
Because the bar counter height is 6 inches taller than the standard counter height of 36 inches, designers typically raise a portion of the kitchen counter to accommodate this height.
How high should a bar be on a kitchen counter?
Some bars are 36 inches high — the height of a regular kitchen counter — while others feature a raised element that brings part of the counter up to the standard bar height. If adding a wet bar, they’re always built at the standard bar counter height of 42 inches, regardless of the space.
What is the standard bar height for a counter table?
You can find bars that measure closer to 36 inches, and that is the standard height for a counter table. It is common to find bars that measure 40 inches tall, but 42 inches is the universal standard bar height. Do You Need Handyman Services? Get free, zero-commitment quotes from pro contractors near you. What is the Standard Bar Height?
What is the standard bar counter height for a wet bar?
If adding a wet bar, they’re always built at the standard bar counter height of 42 inches, regardless of the space. Whether in your kitchen, the basement or a local pub, Schneiderman’s notes that the standard bar height remains the same: 42 inches.