Chairs vs Stools for Your Cafe – Which Should You Choose?

When setting up or redesigning your café, one of the key decisions you’ll face is selecting the right seating—chairs or stools. Each option offers unique advantages and contributes differently to the overall ambience and functionality of your space. 

In this post, we’ll share some points to consider that can help you make the decision on which seating is right.

Above: Our Enzo bar stools in TIPO, Edinburgh – a Michelin Bib Gourmand.

Space Considerations

The layout and available space in your cafe are crucial factors to consider. If your cafe is compact or you want to maximise seating capacity, stools are often the preferred choice. 

Stools have a smaller footprint and can be neatly tucked under counters or high tables, optimising space utilisation. On the other hand, chairs require more room and can create a more open and relaxed seating arrangement.

Above: Our Shaker Bar Stools in a natural wood finish

The Shaker Bum Bar Stool, for example, can easily be tucked away and allows more people to sit around an area than you could achieve with chairs. When not being used, the stools sit neatly under the table and create the illusion of more floor space and openness, which can be very useful in smaller cafes and coffee shops. 

Customer Comfort

The comfort of your patrons should be a top priority. Cafe chairs generally provide better back support and comfort, making them suitable for longer sitting durations. If you anticipate customers spending extended periods dining or working in your cafe, chairs might be more appropriate. 

Above: Our Windsor, Atom and Farmhouse Slatback chairs at Eline restaurant, London

Stools, while not as supportive for prolonged sitting, are great for short, casual visits and can promote a lively, dynamic atmosphere.
However, you can also find seating that meets in the middle for this! The Scandinavian Nordic Oak Bar Stool offers the height and simplicity of stool seating, with added back support and comfort from the solid oak spindled backrest.

Aesthetic Appeal

Consider the style and ambience you want to create in your cafe. Chairs convey a classic and inviting look, ideal for cafes aiming for a cosy and traditional atmosphere. 

The classic Farmhouse Spindle Dining Chair instantly brings a rustic and cosy farmhouse feel to your space, ideal for curating a country cottage aesthetic in your cafe. 

On the other hand, stools lend a contemporary and trendy vibe, perfect for cafes targeting a younger, more casual audience. Choose seating that complements your overall theme and decor to create a cohesive and appealing environment.

Above: Our Farmhouse spindle chairs in the home of @myoldpub (on Instagram), also featured in Homes & Antiques magazine.

Functionality

Think about how your chosen seating will function in your cafe. Stools are excellent for quick meals, coffee breaks, or high-top dining setups. They encourage a more informal and interactive dining experience. 

Chairs, with their versatility, can accommodate various activities—from dining to lounging to working—which may suit cafes catering to diverse customer needs.

Above: Our Contemporary Nordic Chairs at Corner Club, Taunton

Customer Demographics

Consider the demographics of your target audience. Younger patrons may appreciate the laid-back vibe of stools, while older customers might prefer the comfort and stability of chairs. Understanding your customers’ preferences can guide you towards the most suitable seating choice for your cafe.

The Enzo Bar Stool certainly helps to add a youthful and modern feel to the cafe space, and will appeal more to young adults. Whereas patrons who need more support from their chair may prefer a seat like the Farmhouse Slatback Chair.

The decision between chairs and stools for your cafe should be driven by a combination of practicality, aesthetics, and customer comfort. You may even opt for a blend of both seating options to cater to different preferences and create a versatile and inviting atmosphere. 
Ultimately, the goal is to choose seating that enhances the overall dining experience and reflects the unique personality of your cafe. If you’re ready to choose seating for your cafe, explore our collection of cafe chairs and stools to find the right design for your space.