Archive for February, 2009

Bars And Barstools In The Home

While we don’t often think about where the idea for certain furniture and decor came from, it’s obvious that all ideas originated somewhere. The same is true of barstools in the home. Certainly there haven’t always been bars and bar stools in the home, but where did the idea come from? Well, the basic idea begins with wood bar stools used in secret during the years of prohibition.

While bars and bar seating have been around since the Roman era, the use of such items within the home really only go back as far as the 1920’s. At this time in history, alcohol was banned entirely by the United States government, and moonshine, or illegal beverage production, became one big business. At the same time, people needed a place to enjoy the fruits of such labors, and the speak easy, or a secret basement bar, became that outlet. Individuals would open up a bar in their home, using metal bar stools and building a bar at which customers could come and drink their fill, despite the legal issues attached to the act.

Of course, these were highly illegal, and it was necessary to be quiet and secretive about them. Therefore, many of the people who ran them would require a certain ‘knock’ or other signal from customers in order to allow them into their ‘blind pig’ or speak easy. Also, acquiring the equipment to run such a facility could be difficult without getting in trouble. Often, discount bar stools and used equipment would be acquired in a less than up front fashion, and the speak easy was not always furnished with the best of equipment. However, they were usually comfortable enough and provided a place to continue life as it used to be in a typical bar environment.

Contemporary bar stools and bars in the home really became popular in the 1950’s, based on the dcor of the old speak easy, though liquor production had been legal again for decades. Still, the idea provided the comfort and reminiscence of the bar environment in the home. Today, people choose to have bars and barstools in the home for luxury and design purposes. There are so many different styles of stools from which to choose that you can develop any design and look that you desire in the home, whether looking for retro style furniture that resembles the old speak easy style, a traditional design, or modern dcor.

There are also a whole line of novelty bar stools from Western to Auto Related to Sports related. You can also find many kinds that can bring a sense of nostalgia to your bar area. Bar stools are great for relaxing and entertaining. They give great flexibility to complement any personality.

In choosing an ideal bar stool, one must not sacrifice style and comfort. There are many manufacturers which offers a wide selection of affordable bar stools that will suit your preference. Modern bar stools are perfect in giving your home a new twist.

metal bar stools

Technorati Tags: , , , , , ,

Swivel Bar Stools

  swivel bar stool

The simple bar stool has recently become a stylish accessory to every home. Whatever the look and style of your kitchen, the vast variety available in stores and on the internet will ensure you will find a bar stool to suit your taste and complement your decor. Perhaps the most practical and versatile form is the swivel bar stool.

As you would expect, swivel bar stools are stools that turn, enabling you to change your position through three hundred and sixty degrees. You can purchase simple stools, similar to those found at the bar in a diner, or more unique bar stools with complex designs. You need to decide in advance what you are looking for and your budget otherwise the choice available could prove overwhelming.

Consider the practical uses of your bar stool. Who will be sitting in it and for how long? If it will be used for any length of time you may need a stool with a back, or even arms to provide support. Will you be able to use additional cushions on the stool, and if not is there adequate padding in the seat itself? If you are purchasing the stools just for decoration you can focus more on the style than the practicality. However, if you are going to the expense of purchasing a stool you may as well get a good quality one that can be used as extra seating if necessary.

Swivel bar stools can be used in a variety of settings, and are a really flexible form of seating. Many choose to have them in the kitchen, pulled up to a bars or kitchen islands. This can create a great space for you family to gather in the evening to share the day’s experiences. They can also be used at the counter top for informal eating. Bar stools are great for socializing, and will really make your parties go with a swing. This is because all your guests will be on the same level whether they are sitting or standing. So often guests that feel the need to sit down are omitted from conversations taking place over their heads, and the height of bar stools remedies this problem. Bar stools are also perfect for use on your balcony, particularly if you have a solid balcony front that blocks your view when you are sitting low down.

Technorati Tags: , , ,

Your Guide to Buying Bar Stools

Looking for a perfect bar stool? Wondering what to keep in mind when buying one? Read on and soon you will be able to make the perfect choice. Bar stools come in different colors, materials, sizes and shapes. You can use them for casual purposes or for formal purposes. If you are looking at buying a smaller version like the 24-inch variety then you can use it in your children’s room or in the kitchen. After a long day at work in the garage, a small bar stool will give you the much needed rest. It is especially useful for children because climbing on to higher stools can be difficult and sometimes even dangerous.

If you prefer a more standard style, then go for the 30-inch type. This kind of stool is most popular because the size fits almost anyone. Further most kitchen counters and hotel bar counters are just right for this height. Some come with a mid rail half way up so you can put your feet up. It makes sitting a lot more comfortable. If you are on the taller side you may want to look at the 34-inch variety, which is ideal for very tall people. Especially if you have a high counter this stool will be a comfortable fit.

Taking it one step higher, the 36-inch bar stool is the latest fad. Though it looks queer it is becoming extremely popular at bars and even at homes. For people who are interested in the styling of the stool, this one is a winner. Not decided which one to buy? Don’t worry. You can choose an adjustable bar stool. This is extremely convenient because you can use this stool for many functions. When in the kitchen, you can adjust it to the counter height or when in the garage you can bring it lower for groundwork. When buying these stools look for ones that offer maximum flexibility. Some are even adjustable forward and backward. It provides the extra seat at the dining table!

When buying bar stools first decide for what purpose you need them. Also decide on a budget so you don’t exceed it later. By asking friends and family you will also get an idea on the style and material you want for your bar stool. While shopping at the store, you might want to feel the material to see if you like the quality. You can lift the stool to see how much it weighs. If the shop has a catalog it would be advisable to look through it for technical details. You have several options from where you can buy a stool. There are online portals that offer you an online shopping experience. You could order one from a catalog or a shop.

Technorati Tags: , , , ,