Whether you’re buying bar stools for the bar in your den or for the breakfast bar in your kitchen, getting the right stools can seem to be a challenge. But with the large selection of barstools online, you can find the coolest chairs for your bar that meet your exact needs. If you’re not really sure how to narrow down your choices, look for cool barstools with these characteristics.

Geometric designs
Geometric designs, unexpected curves, or asymmetry can make a simple bar stool appear to be its own work of art. If you like a sculptural air to your den or rec room, choosing barstools with these features is a great way to strike up conversations and draw attention to the bar display itself.

Armless barstools with at least a partial back and deep seats
Many people feel a bit precarious perched upon your typical bar stool, and they aren’t likely to be comfortable sitting at similar stools for your home bar. But there are some things you can look for that make them feel much more stable, as well as make it easier to get in and out of the chair.

First, you need to make sure that raised barstools have a ledge that allows shorter people to step up to get firmly into the seat. Next, choose a barstool that has at least a partial back or a full back, whether curved or straight, to add some balance and a feeling of security for those who sit in it. Finally, check to make sure that the barstool has deep seats for added stability and comfort.

Swivel barstools
Swivel bar stools are a great option for people who don’t normally sit in bar height seating. Swivel barstools usually have much stronger, heavier, sturdier bases, which makes even the most Nervous Nelly to be comfortable lounging. The ability to swivel is also important if you will have a bar on one side of the room and entertainment on the other.

Adjustable height
If you have a wide variety of people visiting your home bar, you might want to get barstools of adjustable height. That allows people to raise or lower the seat as needed. Barstools that allow you to easily adjust the height do cost more, but if you are designing only a small four or five-foot bar, you don’t need a lot of chairs. That makes it easier to keep costs down while getting some truly luxury home bar furniture.

Padded seats with bold colors and patterns
If you will be spending any amount of time at all lounging around the bar, you want those seats to be comfortable. Padding is definitely worth it, and there are plenty of options for sophisticated padded leather or faux leather barstools. If you want a brighter, more modern bar design, choose bold colors and prints instead. If you choose barstools with any other type of fabric, you should scotch guard the stools before using them to protect against the inevitable spills and stains.