People are now sitting on stools for longer than ever before. Versatile and multipurpose, they are no longer used only in bar areas, but also at kitchen worktops for preparing dinner, watching TV, completing homework, and many other everyday activities. Consequently, a comfortable padded seat is essential for providing the support needed to sit for extended periods.
Comfort is especially important in commercial environments, from casinos to bars, where owners want patrons to stay for as long as possible. Leather is ideally suited for bar stools thanks to its enduring durability. From fast-paced kitchens to bustling bars, leather stools are designed for busy environments exposed to food, drink, and frequent use.
“A timeless material with enduring popularity, leather has numerous advantages and is used in approximately 80% of our bar stools. Whether you prioritise comfort or are simply looking for that signature style, it is a luxurious material that is soft, chic, and characteristically smooth to the touch.”
Lush Brushed Steel Bar Stool Black
Why are the majority of bar stools upholstered in faux leather?
There are three popular types of leather available, but by far the most dominant in our range is faux leather, due to the nature of where bar stools are used. Ideally suited to busy kitchens and lively bar environments, faux leather has a water-repellent, wipe-clean surface, meaning spillages can be easily cleaned away.
Designed for regular use, faux leather is fade, stain, and scratch resistant, making it a practical and low-maintenance choice. It is also an inexpensive alternative to real leather and offers a smooth, even, blemish-free surface for a uniform look.
Due to its flexible nature, faux leather resists creasing and puckering, making it perfect for round or unusually shaped seats. As a man-made material, it can also be dyed more easily, allowing for a wide variety of colours, as seen in the Lush pictured above.
What's so great about genuine leather?
If you are looking for a luxury item with an upmarket designer look, browse our range of stunning real leather stools. Typically carrying a slightly higher price tag, they are ideal if you want an opulent or statement piece.
With its recognisable smell and distinctive feel, genuine leather delivers a truly sumptuous seating experience. As no two animal hides are the same, each stool has its own unique finish.
Just like skin, leather has pores, allowing it to breathe and adapt to body temperature. It is also ideal for those who suffer from allergies or asthma, as it does not hold dust like fabric and is highly resistant to dust mites.
Known for its durability, genuine leather is unlikely to peel or crack. Any worn areas develop a burnished sheen over time, making the material softer and more attractive with age. Why not take a look at the Leah, a beautiful model enriched by its plush cushioned seat?
Where does bonded leather come into it?
Immensely popular, bonded leather offers the best of both worlds and is therefore widely used in bar stool design. Crafted from around 10–20% genuine leather fibres, these form the base layer before being coated with a sleek vinyl topping.
Many bonded leather stools have an antiqued finish for an authentic look, as seen in the Ascot Bar Stool Cream, a classic example of a chic, padded design created for comfort.
With an abundance of benefits, it is clear that leather is a perfect match for bar stools, whichever type you choose.
