Perfect Pairs: 20 Matching Bar Stools & Chairs to Complement

Written by: Emma Cyrus, Senior Copy, Content & Editorial Writer
Reviewed by: Vidhi Hingu, Architectural Designer at FCI London
Edited by: Zoona Sikander, Interior Design Writer & Social Media Content Creator

Estimated Reading Time: 18 minutes

TLDR: Coordinating dining chairs with bar stools requires balancing visual harmony with functional needs. This comprehensive guide examines when matching makes sense, explores sophisticated coordination alternatives, and presents 20 curated designer sets from leading luxury furniture brands. Whether you choose identical pieces or thoughtfully coordinated variations, the key lies in creating intentional design relationships that serve your space's unique requirements.

Table of Contents

• When Should You Consider Matching Your Dining Chairs and Stools?
• Some Tips from Our Interior Designers on Coordinating Your Furniture
• Our Top Picks: Dining Chair and Bar Stool Sets
• Inspiration
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

The art of creating a harmonious kitchen-dining space lies not in rigid matching, but in understanding the subtle dance between cohesion and character. While many assume that identical dining chairs and bar stools represent the pinnacle of coordination, today's most sophisticated interiors tell a rather different story. The discerning homeowner recognises that true elegance emerges when pieces complement rather than mirror each other, creating visual conversations that feel both intentional and effortlessly refined. 

Gone are the days when successful design meant purchasing furniture sets in matching trios. Modern luxury embraces a more nuanced approach, where your dining chairs and luxury stools differ dramatically in form whilst sharing an invisible thread of design DNA. This evolution reflects not just changing tastes, but a deeper appreciation for how different seating elements serve distinct purposes whilst contributing to a cohesive narrative that speaks to your personal style and sophisticated understanding of space.

For the astute homeowner seeking to elevate their open-plan living areas, mastering this balance becomes essential. The following principles will guide you through creating kitchen-dining spaces that feel curated rather than catalogue-ordered, ensuring every piece earns its place through both function and beauty.

When Should You Consider Matching Your Dining Chairs and Stools?

If you want to give your home a luxurious or designer look, the aim should be to make it look interesting, and this can be achieved both with and without matching pieces. The most common scenario in which designers recommend matching chairs and stools is when they are both placed in an open planned concept or if they are both visible in your line of sight (for example, if the dining chairs can be seen from the kitchen and vice versa). In these situations, visual continuity becomes rather important because the eye naturally seeks relationships between elements within the same sightline.

That said, matching doesn't necessarily mean identical. You might choose pieces from the same collection but in different heights, or select entirely different silhouettes that share a common material or finish. The key is whether the pieces feel as though they belong to the same design conversation, even if they're speaking different dialects.

Key Takeaway: Visual continuity matters most when pieces share sightlines in open-plan spaces, but matching doesn't require identical designs. The real objective is creating pieces that belong to the same design conversation, whether through shared materials, finishes, or subtle aesthetic threads that feel intentional rather than prescriptive.

Some Tips from Our Interior Designers on Coordinating Your Furniture

• If you want your furniture to match but not to look too similar, you usually have three different options: same design of stools and chairs but with different (but complementary) upholstery, different designs but same (or similar) upholstery and different design but same material for both the chairs and the bar table and stools.
• In many cases, sizing is more important than the design - even if your chairs or stools looked beautiful in the furniture showroom, they can appear disproportionate if they're too big or too small for your dining table or room. So always make sure to take the measurements with you to discuss them with your salesperson.
• Consider your lifestyle and furniture usage to determine if you want dining chairs and stools with or without arms.
• You won't consider changing your furniture for at least a couple of years, so consider buying a timeless design in a neutral colour instead of going for something trendy that will be short-lived.
• If you have kids or if your seating is going to be used regularly, most salespeople will tell you to avoid light-coloured upholstery. However, if you're going for luxury furniture, this is not a problem, as the upholstery can easily be cleaned in case of spills or stains.
• Wooden dining chairs and stools are a classic favourite, and we love them too because of their timeless charm; however, if you have a wooden dining table or bar area, we recommend avoiding wooden seating as it can be too overpowering.
• If your kitchen is all-white, having any dark coloured chairs and stools creates an interesting visual impact. Whereas for darker rooms, we usually recommend light coloured upholstery for the seating furniture.

Key Takeaway: Successful coordination hinges on proportional harmony and lifestyle considerations rather than rigid design rules. Prioritize measurements, consider longevity over trends, and remember that luxury upholstery withstands daily life beautifully, whilst thoughtful material mixing prevents visual monotony and creates sophisticated layering.

Our Top Picks: Dining Chair and Bar Stool Sets

To make your search and your decisions easier, we have made a list of some of the most perfectly matched chairs and bar stools from our favourite luxury furniture brands:

1 - Wind by Aria

Inspired, of course, by the light and airy elements of nature, the Wind dining chair and bar stool boast a minimalistic look and an enveloping seat. The seat and backrest for both the chair and the bar stool are completely covered in soft leather, which offers maximum comfort.

All Aria products are manufactured completely in Italy with the uncompromising quality that our Italian brands are known for.

2 - Pil Dining Chair & Pil Too Bar Stool by Bonaldo

If you're looking for truly modern bar stools, then Pil is the answer to your search as its unique design instantly catches your eye. The angled legs, curved back, and soft cushioning all come together wonderfully to make them an elegant addition to any modern kitchen, bar or dining room.

If you haven't guessed yet, the pillow collection is indeed inspired by the shape of a pillow, which means that all the products in this range are designed with a focus on softness, relaxation and comfort. You can also choose the Pil lounger for your living room to match your dining chairs and stools.

3 - Galaxy by Bontempi Casa

This outdoor dining chair and bar stool duo by Bontempi Casa bring both stylish and fun elements to your outdoor space. It's the geometric, cut-out pattern of the backs that makes them stand out in any setting. Both the chair and the stool can be customised in a range of colours, including the most vibrant ones. They're made from high-quality, all-weather-friendly material, and they can also be stacked, making them practical, space-saving options.

Since they are manufactured from high-quality polypropylene, they're not just lightweight and waterproof but also incredibly durable, so they'll easily be a part of your garden or patio for years to come.

Our designers highly recommend pairing the Galaxy bar stools with either the Alter bar table or the Rail high table by Bontempi Casa.

4 - Nuka by Brabbu

Inspired by the mesmerising Nuka glacier of Alaska, these velvet upholstered dining chairs and bar stools are magnificent additions to contemporary homes. The legs of the chair are a glossy golden colour, while the bar stool comes in a glossy black finish with gold detailing.

The high curved back of both the chair and the stool is further enhanced by the addition of gold nails that run along the back stitching. The upholstered fabric or leather can be customised in your choice of material and colours that you can select from the samples at our showroom.

5 - Newood by Cappellini

Alberto Brogliato and Federico Traverso are the renowned designers behind the Newood series, which is a reinterpretation of the classic Windsor chairs, as they've given them a contemporary upgrade in this version.

Made from solid, curved wood, this chair truly highlights the natural charm and beauty of wood. It's a stackable chair that is available in two versions, with and without backrest detailing.

The Newood stool shares the same classic appeal and old-world aesthetics as the Newood chair, but with a contemporary touch that makes it perfect for modern homes. While the structure is in solid wood, a stainless steel footrest has been added to make the stool more durable for everyday use. These metal bar stools exemplify how industrial elements can enhance traditional wooden designs.

6 - Sofia by Cattelan Italia

Another masterpiece by one of our favourite Italian furniture brands, Cattelan Italia. The Sofia chair and bar stool have been designed by Paolo Cattelan himself, and they're one of the most elegant options you can find. The simple yet timeless design is enhanced by the comfortable cushioning and ergonomic support that this upholstered chair and bar stool offer.

Both the Sofia chair and the bar stool are available in two different heights, and a chair version with armrests is also available. These chairs pair exceptionally well with any of the Cattelan Italia dining tables, making them perfect dining room chairs with matching bar stools.

7 - Dumbo Dining Chair and Bar Stool by Cattelan Italia

Designed by Archirivolto for Cattelan Italia, the Dumbo dining chair is like a designer's interpretation of the iconic Disney character, Dumbo, in the form of a chair. And of course, just like the character that it's inspired by, this chair is simply impossible to ignore for anyone who sets their eyes on it.

The dining chair features a thick wooden base with an upholstered seat and backrest that can be customised in leather or fabric. The nontraditional silhouette and high level of comfort that this chair offers allow it to be used as not just a dining chair but also an office chair or an accent chair in the living room.

The Dumbo bar stool is as versatile as its counterpart, as it's suitable for use in both kitchens and bar areas. The Italian craftsmanship and high-quality materials truly shine through in both these products, representing exceptional contemporary bar stools for the modern home.

8 - Alain by Cierre

The Alain series is probably one of the most comfortable ones on our list today, as sitting in this chair or bar stool feels like you're getting a warm embrace. And isn't that what we all need!

The chair and bar stool share the characteristic tufted stitching in the form of checkered seams on the back, making them ideal for modern interiors. These leather bar stools with backs provide exceptional support and comfort for extended seating.

As a brand, Cierre is known for taking care of the tiniest details to ensure that customers get unmatched comfort and functionality from their purchase. For instance, this can be observed in the attached footrest on the bar stool or the ultrasoft cushioning on both products.

9 - Tuka by Connubia Calligaris

Bold and beautiful! The Tuka chair and stool feature a unique, enveloping, C-shaped back supported by the sleekest legs we've ever seen. Both the legs and the upholstery are customisable in a huge range of colours, so the clients can create a special version of the chair or bar stool that best suits their tastes.

The frame of the Tuka family is made from recycled polypropylene to offer high quality without impacting the environment. The Tuka bar stool also includes a tubular footrest and is available in two heights. Perfect as comfortable breakfast chairs, they make morning routines more enjoyable.

10 - Camille by Domkapa

Available in leather and velvet, Camille features the most strikingly beautiful pleats on its backrest and a comfortable seat that is supported by elegant metal legs. This is the set we recommend for those who want to add a touch of luxury to their interiors.

Both the chair and the bar stool are enhanced by the golden tips, and the footrest of the bar stool is also highlighted by the same golden finish, creating a stunning combination of dining chairs with matching bar stools.

11 - Colony by Eichholtz

This honey-coloured, matching rattan dining chair and stool draw inspiration from vintage colonial furniture and are perfect for adding warmth and beauty to any space.

Both the dining table and bar stool can be used indoors as well as outdoors, bringing the country element to your decor.

12 - Lisa by Italforma

This swivel chair and stool duo have been designed for relaxation without compromising aesthetics and craftsmanship. Both the chair and the bar stool are available in different base versions and in different heights.

The metal legs version gives the dining chairs a light and airy look, the wood version brings a refined style to the space, while the swivel base makes the chair versatile enough to be used as an office chair.

The stool too is available in two versions, with and without a swivel base, and both products can be customised in leather, fabric or eco-leather. These versatile pieces work excellently as kitchen chairs and stools for busy family homes.

13 - Sharky by Kristalia

Conceived by the multi-award-winning designer Michael Geldmacher for Kristalia, the Sharky series is light yet incredibly strong, just like a shark's fins.

The Sharky chair is also the winner of the Interior Innovation Award 2015, which says a lot about how unique, beautiful and comfortable this chair is. The success and popularity of the chair pushed the designer to extend the collection and add two stools in different shapes and heights.

The high stool almost completely replicates the main concept of the Sharky chair, while the low stool has been given a more compact look.

Both the chair and the stools are easy to clean and maintain, and they can even be customised for outdoor use, making them ideal dining chairs and matching bar stools for versatile spaces.

14 - Estoril by Laskasas

Handcrafted in Portugal from the finest materials, the Estoril chair by Laskasas is so magnificent and versatile that it can be used in any space, be it as a dining chair, an accent chair in the living room, a corner chair in the bedroom or a reading chair in the library.

The crescent-shaped back and comfortable seat of the chair and the bar stool can be customised in over 100 materials and colours. The wooden legs are embellished with a golden cap for an added luxe factor. Our designers recommend pairing these dining chairs with the Darc dining table by Laskasas because of the harmonious interplay between metal and wood. These pieces represent excellent dining room chairs and matching bar stools for traditional and contemporary settings alike.

15 - Cleo by Misura Emme

Cleo collection strikes the perfect balance between classic and contemporary designs in the shape of the Cleo dining chair and bar stool. The quality of craftsmanship is visible in every detail, such as the elegant stitching of the seams on the armrests, which truly enhances this seat.

Both the dining chair and the stool feature a linear base in solid wood and a padded seat and backrest. The backrest and arms are also slightly curved to give Cleo an elegant and refined look.

16 - Velis by Potocco

Two-seater bar stools are not very common, but they're often needed to complete a bar area, a coffee corner or a refined living room. The Velis bar stool is thus an exceptional product as it's available as both a single and double-seater.

The Velis collection has been designed by Mario Ferrarini to satisfy many different seating demands through a single collection. All products from this collection are characterised by the ever-so-slightly open space on the sides of the backrest, which gives them a light and airy presence.

Other products in the collection include the velis footstool, lounger and armchair - most of which are available in multiple versions to meet the client's needs. These dining chair bar stools showcase innovative design thinking in modern furniture.

17 - Ester by Porada

Designed by Stefano Bigi for Porada, Ester is one of the most uniquely designed dining chairs and bar stool sets that we offer.

Porada is an Italian brand that was born out of a love for wooden furniture, but with the Ester collection, Porada has wonderfully merged its love for wood with contemporary design elements.

The Ester dining chair features a wooden frame with a gently arched back and upholstered seat. This unique and sculptural design makes this chair the perfect match for Porada's infinity table.

The Ester stool too shares the same semi-circular back design, but an oblong-shaped footrest has been added to the swivelling metal base. Both these products are best suited for modern interiors.

18 - Bastide by Reflex Angelo

Designed by Andree Putman, the Bastide dining chair and stool are all you need to bring the old-school charm to your space.

Not many bar stools come with a high back that is not just supportive but also comfortable, which is why we highly recommend Bastide to clients looking for high back stools. To further add to the comfort and for those who want to turn their bar areas into conversation corners, these bar stools also come in a version with armrests.

The upholstery for both the chair and the bar stool can be customised by choosing from a range of samples available at our showroom.

19 - Sila by Sovet Italia

Sila exemplifies how even the simplest materials and shapes can come together to create unique and eye-catching products. Supported by a slim metal base, the Sila chair and stool are also available in covered and padded versions.

20 - Manta by Rugiano

Simple lines never looked so good! The Manta by Rugiano plays with geometrical shapes to create a stunning dining chair and stool that are completely upholstered in customisable leather. The bar stool looks spectacular when matched with a minimalistic kitchen island. As for the dining chairs, we highly recommend pairing them with the Absolute dining table as they share a similar sculptural design.

The soft and sinuous backrests of all these products are enriched by vertical stitchings that give them a warm and welcoming look. You can also buy the Manta armchair, Manta pouffe, Manta sofa or the Manta chaise lounge to complete your collection.

Key Takeaway: From minimalist Italian leather to statement-making geometric patterns, the right pairing balances aesthetic ambition with functional comfort. Each curated set demonstrates how coordinated pieces can range from perfectly matched siblings to complementary design cousins, all whilst maintaining the cohesive narrative your space deserves.

Inspiration

Kitchens, dining areas and bars are some of our favourite spaces to work with, so here's some inspiration from projects that our team has worked on:

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do bar stools and dining chairs have to match?
No, they definitely don't have to match, and this is more of a personal preference than a rule. However, most designers recommend having some visual coherence in your interiors, so it is often a good idea to go for matching dining chairs and stools. The final decision also depends on the location or the proximity of your dining chairs and stools. If they're both in the same room, such as the kitchen or in an otherwise open-plan space, it makes sense for them to be coordinated. But if your bar stools are in the kitchen and the dining chairs are in a completely separate dining room, then they do not have to match.

How can I achieve visual harmony without identical matching pieces?
Rather, sensible coordination can be achieved through shared materials, complementary finishes, or unified proportions. Consider using the same upholstery fabric in different colours, or selecting pieces with similar metal accents. The key is creating intentional design relationships that feel both sophisticated and natural to your space's overall aesthetic.

What factors should I consider when selecting coordinated seating for open-plan spaces?
Open-plan areas require particularly thoughtful coordination since both pieces occupy shared sightlines. Focus on proportional harmony, ensuring neither element overwhelms the other. Consider your lifestyle needs - bar stools might require different comfort features than dining chairs. Scale and visual weight become quite important in these genuinely interconnected spaces.

How do I know if my dining chairs and bar stools are properly proportioned for my space?
Professional measurement is refreshingly straightforward - bring your room dimensions and existing furniture measurements when consulting with our design team. Consider both the physical scale relative to your dining table and kitchen island, as well as the visual balance within the overall space. Properly proportioned pieces should feel neither cramped nor lost within their designated areas.

Visit Our Showroom

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FCI London, Rays House, North Circular Road, London, NW10 7XP
Monday - Saturday: 10am - 6pm
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Contact Details:
Phone: +442081531235
Email: [email protected]

What to Bring:

• Room dimensions and measurements
• Floor plans or room layout sketches
• Current room photos from multiple angles
• Budget range and timeline
• Style preferences and inspiration images
• Details of existing furniture you want to keep

The art of coordinating dining chairs and bar stools lies in understanding that harmony needn't mean uniformity. Whether you choose pieces from the same collection or thoughtfully related designs that share materials, finishes, or proportions, success emerges from intentional relationships rather than rigid matching. Your space deserves furniture that feels curated rather than catalogue-ordered, creating a sophisticated narrative that reflects both your aesthetic sensibility and the practical realities of how you live.

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