A stool is an item of seating that usually has no back. Stools originally had either 3 or 4 legs. Nowadays, however, stools are produced in all different styles. The number of legs, the material of the stool and its design can be selected by the customer according to the proposed location and use of the stool. Stools vary in height, material and application.

Barstools are noted for being tall and narrow. Primarily found in bars and at counters, bar stools are a comfortable seating option and tend to be backless. Foot rests can be attached to the legs to add visual interest and enhance sitting comfort. Stools of all kinds can be made from a variety of different materials:

• Anodized aluminum (looks like stainless steel)
• Polished aluminum
• Stainless steel
• Metal (stainless steel, brass, chrome-plated)
• Wood (mostly beech wood, walnut, ash, oak)
• Plastic
• Foam (cushions)
• Leather (seat covers)
• Imitation leather (seat covers)

Barstools can also be a simple, functional and modern standing aid. Cafes, snack bars and fast food outlets have long recognised the barstool as a contemporary form of standing aid. Fixed barstools are not designed to be sat on for long periods, but more to offer a comfortable seat for a short time. Barstools as standing aids in the catering industry have a smooth surface and a linear design for easy cleaning. Standing aids are particularly popular with customers as they allow a relaxed form of seating.

- fully functional but never boring
Designer barstools are extremely comfortable. They are usually height-adjustable via a gas pressure spring and often ergonomic in design, making them exceptionally comfortable and visually extravagant. The range of designer barstools gives unlimited freedom to the customer's imagination. The base is usually made of chrome to give the stool sufficient stability. The upholstered seat can be selected from an extensive catalogue of fabrics and imitation leathers. Naturally, the higher the quality of the material chosen, the longer the designer bar stool will remain in good condition.

Barstools can be found in the reception areas of large hotels, municipal halls and reception rooms as well as in bars, pubs, lounge bars, club houses and private party rooms. Not only do they fit in with their environment, but they also bring a touch of authenticity and originality.
Barstools set the tone
They are a familiar sight: Spanish-style barstools set in front of the highly ornamental Spanish counter in the bodega next door. These barstools are not just for sitting: in their form and design they express the Spanish way of living. They convey a sense of lightness, flexibility and simplicity. The barstool has become an authentic item of catering furniture with a dual function: seating comfort and a sense of atmosphere.
Numerous bars, such as the Marshall Bar in Stuttgart, integrate Spanish-style barstools into their business concept.

Top quality designer barstools can be found in popular clubs, such as the Club-Loon in Diez, the Inside Bar and the Monsa Orient Lounge in Frankfurt, or the Moonlight-club in Giessen. Simple, striking, leather or shiny: the barstool is an integral part of the decor.
Famous hotels and hotel chains rely on classic barstools too. Guests in the Dehner Blumen Hotel in Rain, the Hotel Munich Palace, or the Hudson Bar in New York appreciate the comfort of these exclusive classics. It is clear that the design of a barstool must fit in with its surroundings. The right choice of bar stool sets the tone of a room.

Stools have been used since ancient times and have never lost their popularity. These days, stools are in demand in all shapes and colours. It would be wrong to assume that stools are more likely to be found in public buildings and catering establishments: stools and barstools have found their way into living rooms, bedrooms and children's rooms. With a bit of creativity, stools can be used to transform a sofa, add an extra place at the table, create extra space, act as a table or simply serve as a 'objet d'art'.
The choice of cover is usually determined by the proposed use of the stool:

Upholstered stools for dining rooms and living rooms covered with leather or imitation leather and witih plastic feet are very different from stools with trendy fabric and imitation leather covers, ranging from zebra to cow and tiger skin looks. Customers can choose from a wide-ranging catalogue of special colours and patterns.

In catering establishments stools will often be equipped with a special trim. This trim is frequently made of aluminium Dibond, 3-4 mm thick, to protect the stool from dirt. In catering establishments, in particular, coffee and soft drinks are sadly spilt every day, staining the new upholstery.

The Hussen stool has a quilted surface, making it very comfortable to sit on. The needle-cord cover is particularly fine and pleasant. Sitting comfort can be enhanced still further by ordering extra-soft Oriental cushions or specially made seats. These exceptionally comfortable options come in 2 parts: the cover and the removable foam filling. The cover and the high quality foam filling can be washed separately. Seat material: 45% acryllic, 40% polyester and 15% polyviscose.

Stools come in all different shapes, colours and uses:

• Fishing stools
• Stacking stools
• Folding stools
• Triangular folding stools
• Folding barstools
• Knee stools (computer chair)
• Pouffes
• Barstools
• Movable stools
• Clinic stools
• Wooden seat stools
• Cantilever stools

Literature on the subject of bars and barstools:

Gage, Allan, Um die Welt in 80 Bars, Die 80 besten Cocktails der Welt und die Bars, die sie berühmt machten, 2005 DelValle, Cristina, New Bars & Restaurants, 2004. If you have any questions about barstools, stools or standing aids please do not hesitate to contact us: Tel.: +49 (0) 8191 9194-0 / E-Mail: info@goin.de