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Maximize Space and Comfort with These Apartment Kitchen Design Ideas

When it comes to small apartment kitchens, you’re working with limited square footage.

From cramped countertops to awkwardly placed appliances, finding room to cook and entertain can feel like a puzzle. But fear not—there are clever ways to work with what you’ve got.

The key? Multifunctional furniture and smart design choices.

Storage Solutions

Maximizing storage in a small kitchen is all about creativity. Think vertical.

Install shelves that go all the way up to the ceiling, and use hooks for hanging pots, pans, or utensils.

Kitchen Shelves
Kitchen Hooks for Pots, Pans, and Utensils

The goal? Find a home for everything without cluttering your precious counter space.

Choosing the Right Kitchen Bar Stools for Small Spaces

Your kitchen may not have the island of your dreams, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find the perfect apartment bar stools to make your space work for you. Here’s how to nail it:

Size Matters

First things first, grab your tape measure. To avoid that awkward “why are my knees hitting the counter?” moment, measure from the floor to the underside of your counter.

Measure the Height of Your Counter

You want 10-12 inches between the seat of your stool and the counter.

If you don’t allow for this space, you won’t be able to sit at your counter:

Optimal Seat Height
Modern kitchen showing how seat affects your comfort
  • If you have a standard 36-inch counter, you’re looking at barstools that have a seat height of 24-26 inches.
  • If you have a 42-inch counter, you’re looking at barstools that have a seat height of 30-31 inches.

Need help finding the perfect seat height? Click here for a quick guide!

Style and Aesthetics

Now that you’ve got the measurements down, it’s time for the fun part—choosing the style!

  • Whether your apartment kitchen has modern vibes or a cozy farmhouse nook, there’s a stool to match.
  • Love the industrial look? Opt for metal frames and wood seats.
  • Feeling a bit more vintage? Go for curved designs or distressed finishes.

Need some interior design inspiration? Check out our video on 40+ Small Kitchen Design Ideas 2024:

Watch our video on small kitchen bar ideas and kitchens

Space-Saving Options

Bar stools for small spaces are here to save the day (and your floor space).

Consider compact options like low-back bar stools or backless bar stools that tuck neatly under your counter when not in use, freeing up valuable space.

Amisco's Hanson Low Back Gold Bar Stool with White Cushion in Modern Kitchen
Hanson Low Back Bar Stools at the Kitchen Island
Trica's Henry Modern Black Backless Swivel Bar Stools in Modern Kitchen
Henry Backless Bar Stools at Kitchen Peninsula

Bar Stool Design Ideas

Here are some design ideas to inspire your next pick.

Sleek and Modern

For a clean, contemporary look, minimalist bar stools are your best bet.

Think smooth lines, slim profiles, and materials like metal.

Below, are narrow bar stools that are easy to tuck away when not in use, keeping your space looking streamlined and uncluttered.

Industrial Chic

If you’re after a trendy, urban vibe, go for industrial-style bar stools that combine metal and wood.

The juxtaposition of rough, rustic wood with cool, sturdy metal creates a balance between edgy and warm.

Cozy and Comfortable

Look for bar stools with padded seats and backrests that invite you to sit and stay awhile.

Upholstered bar stools in soft fabrics or leather add a cozy touch while still keeping things polished. Your guests will appreciate the extra comfort, whether they’re enjoying dinner or a casual chat.

Versatile Options

Want a counter stool that can pull double-duty? Consider versatile designs that fit effortlessly into multiple spaces.

From kitchens to home offices, bar stools with adjustable heights or swivel features can adapt to different uses.

Creating a Functional and Stylish Kitchen

Color and Texture

When it comes to making a small kitchen feel larger, the right color palette and materials can work wonders.

Stick to light, neutral tones like whites, soft grays, or pastels to reflect more light and open up the space.

Amisco's Barbara Modern Swivel Bar Stools at the Kitchen Island
Barbara Swivel Stools in a Light Colored Vinyl

For added depth, consider glossy finishes on cabinets or countertops, which can bounce light around.

Holland's Catalina Stainless Steel Swivel Bar Stools in Modern White Kitchen
Catalina Stainless Steel Bar Stools in Customer’s Kitchen

If you want to introduce texture, go for natural materials like stone or wood in subtle tones to keep things airy without overwhelming the room.

Amisco's Visconti Wood Swivel Upholstered Modern Bar Stools in Modern Kitchen
Visconti Swivel Wood Bar Stools

Lighting

Good lighting is essential in any kitchen, but it’s especially important in small kitchens.

Maximize natural light as much as possible by keeping windows uncovered or using sheer curtains.

Amisco's Tricia Modern Low Back Swivel Bar Stool with Arms in Modern Kitchen
Featuring the Tricia Swivel Bar Stools

For artificial lighting, a mix of overhead and under-cabinet lighting can brighten up work areas while creating a cozy ambiance.

Pendant lights over the counter or island add both style and function, drawing attention to key areas without taking up valuable counter space.

Using Bar Stools in a Small Apartment Kitchen

Ready to find the perfect bar stools for your small apartment kitchen? With so many options out there, you’re just a few clicks away from upgrading your apartment kitchen.

Whether you’re after a sleek, modern look or something cozy and compact, there’s a counter stool waiting to complete your setup.

Start shopping for apartment bar stools now and transform your kitchen into a stylish, space-saving haven!

Posted by Stephanie

on in Design

Stephanie

A lover of all types of design, Stephanie brings over 9 years of experience with interior design and seating. From modern to transitional, she loves any design that exudes comfort and elegance.