Spacing Needed Between Stools You want to make sure that there is enough room for people to sit comfortably and move around the island. A good rule of thumb is to leave 10-15 inches of space between each stool. This will allow people to get in and out of their seats without bumping into each other.
As a general rule, allow 24-28 inches per stool for the seating area. Measure the total usable length along the side(s) of the island where stools will be placed. Allow extra space - about 18 inches - at the corners if seating is on one side only.
Distance. Ensure there's enough clearance around the island to allow for comfortable movement and workflow. A minimum of 42 inches (106 cm) of space between the island and surrounding countertops or walls should be enough to accommodate traffic and appliance access.
Recommended Island Overhang Lengths
For standard barstools with a seat height of 30 inches, a 12 to 15-inch overhang is recommended. For counter-height barstools with a seat height of 24 inches, a 15 to 18-inch overhang is ideal.
According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association guidelines, having at least 36 inches of clearance space around the kitchen island allows for ease of movement and access to kitchen cabinets and appliances.
40" Minimum Clearance Between all Counters, Base Cabinets, Appliances, and Walls In more elaborate kitchens where an island is planned, the 40-inch clearance must be maintained between the face of the island and all opposing features.
For example, if the size of your kitchen island is a 6-foot (72-inch) island, you can comfortably accommodate around three stools (72/24 = 3).
Selecting Stool Height
Typically, you're going to want to allow 10-12″ from the top of the stool seat to the understide of your countertop. Standard countertop height is 36-39″ high, so you'll want a seat that is 24-26″ from the floor, leaving that room for leg clearance under the countertop.
No matter what table height you have, there should always be 10" – 12" of space between the bar stool seat and the bottom of the counter or table. Read our guide How to Pick the Best Bar Stool Height for more tips on choosing the right height.
So, what's replacing the kitchen island? One popular trend is the rise of multifunctional dining tables. These tables can serve as both a dining area and additional prep space. Imagine a beautifully crafted table that can accommodate family dinners or function as a workspace for meal prepping.
The standard 12-inch overhang is ideal for most people, providing a comfortable and practical seating area. A 10-inch overhang can work if space is limited, but it might not be as comfortable. An 18-inch overhang offers plenty of legroom but requires additional support.
Space per seat at an island: Ideally, every person should have about 22 to 24 inches of seating space to avoid bumping knees and elbows.
'A kitchen island isn't always necessary, especially when incorporating built-in appliances,' says Kerrie. 'In kitchens with limited space, opting for integrated appliances like ovens, microwaves and dishwashers can eliminate the need for an island, allowing for a more open and streamlined layout.
Your available space should be about 10 feet wide by 12 feet long at a minimum to fit an island, or else it will overwhelm your room.
Standard counter stool heights are typically 24 to 27 inches tall. Standard bar stool heights typically 28 to 32 inches tall.
For two stools, the counter should be wide enough to fit each stool comfortably. Experts suggest 24–30 inches for each stool. So, add 48–60 inches for two stools. Remember, the stools' size and style, like armrests, might change this.
Q1: How many bar stools should I have for a 6-foot island? A 6-foot bar island can accommodate between two to four bar stools, depending on the width and style of the seats. If the stools are between 15 and 18 inches wide, you can fit three stools. If they're 22 inches wide and can swivel, you can fit two stools.
Keep in mind you need 9″-13″ between the seat and the counter for seating comfort. Heights of chair stools are generally 18″ from floor to seat. Pair with a table or counter 28″-30″ in height. Heights of counter stools are generally 24″-26″ inches from floor to seat.
Kitchen island with seating
Your overhang in this situation should be a minimum of eight inches but could range up to 22 inches. One thing to consider when making your decision is whether it is important that your stools or chairs can be fully tucked away under the counter.
The Standard Counter Height
Kitchen – The standard kitchen counter height is 36 inches (3 feet) above the floor.
At a minimum, there should be at least 42 inches of space between a kitchen island and the nearest countertop. If you have an oven that opens into this space, you will need even more room, at least 48 inches.
Most building codes don't require backsplashes.
In terms of height, you'll need to think about what the island will be used for. If you're only adding an island for extra preparation space, a height of 36 inches is ideal for comfortable working. If, however, your island will also be a dining space, you'll want to look at a height of around 42 inches.