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Island seating & stool calculator
Island length and counter height to how many people fit, which stools to buy and how much overhang to plan.
How much room per stool?
Plan about 24" of counter per person at counter height and 26" at bar height, measured center to center. Stools with arms or swivel seats need a couple of inches more.
Stool height
Counter height (36") takes 24" to 26" stools; bar height (42") takes 28" to 30" stools; table height (30") takes 18" chairs. The goal is 10" to 12" between the seat and the underside of the counter.
Overhang and supports
Knees need about 15" of overhang at counter height and 12" at bar height. Stone overhangs beyond about 10" need corbels or hidden steel supports. See kitchen islands.
Common questions
How many stools fit at an 8 foot island?
Four at counter height (96" / 24"), or three roomier seats if the stools have arms.
What height stool for a 36 inch counter?
A 24" to 26" counter stool.
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