Functional seating furniture such as bar stools do not have to be boring. For instance, French bar stools look lovely in the finest of homes because of their style and carved wood.

photo credit: Martin Lopatka

Bistro bar stools are actually elegant wooden chairs with intricate carving, not to be confused with English or American basic plain bar stools. They are considered fine furniture and a perfect fit with traditional and modern kitchens, as well.

There is nothing utilitarian about French bar stools,and that is why they fit so well in an American country kitchen, English cottage kitchens, or where-ever anyone would like a little bit of France brought into their home.

French Bistro Bar Stools

For those looking for French bar stools in the United States, though, they may have a little hard time finding them. American traditional or basic bar stools are common
in America, but the elegant bar stools patterned after the French stools are not as well known.

Many retailers sell French bistro bar stools direct to the public from the sources they find. A good number of these are authentic reproductions in high quality, hand-crafted seating that were normally seen in France in country bistros.

Fitting right in with classic kitchen cabinets, these bar stools make really good seating in a gourmet's kitchen. Whether added to the French country kitchen or an American country kitchen, these French bar stools enhance the decor and look just right. The French countryside can be evoked by adding a matching table and creating am elegant, cozy breakfast nook.

Although many people do not like traditional American bar stools because of their lack of charm and character, French Bistro bar stools are the epitome of both. They give the appearance of heirloom antiques instead of something you picked up at the corner bar.

There are limitless styles of stool available for anyone who is looking to spice up their kitchen on a budget. First thing you have to decide is whether you want backless version or a model with arms.

Backless bar stools are the most common and come on many styles that overlap the stools I discuss above and below. However, if you trying to decide on a backless stool versus one that has arms and a large back, you may first need to consider the space . For small kitchens and islands or counter usage, the best choice will be a backless style because they take up less space and are easy to get onto even in cramped quarters. They are also a classic stool design used in real bars and restaurants and therefore if you want a retro design will likely find a larger selection in backless barstool models.