Journal

15 Stools That Create Interesting Seating

When you think of stools, you probably don’t think they are all that interesting. But one thing we love about the stool seat is its versatility and ability to add dynamics, height, and variation to your seating arrangements. Thanks to some amazing design studios, modern stools come in many different materials, shapes, aesthetics, and silhouettes. This means you can find modern stools, Scandinavian counter chairs, and contemporary foot stools that serve your every need. Here are 16 stools that create interesting seating in your home, office, or restaurant.

Create Interesting Seating with Stools

If you’re tired of the same chair and sofa combo, change it up with a stool! The modern stool seating is designed to create interest in the composition through materials and multi-purpose versatility. Often doubling as side tables or footstools, the contemporary stool seating effortlessly adds height variances and proves its worth.

Below are some of our favorite stools that help create that interesting seating arrangement that accommodates daily living as well as guests.

Sculpt Stool

The artistic sophistication of the 101 Copenhagen Sculpt Stool marries the world of art with versatile seating. Combining creative design elements with contemporary functionality and geometric playfulness, the Sculpt Stool is a solid, reliable seat that enhances living rooms, studios, or any space with artistic character.

Sculpt Stool - 101 Copenhagen Stools + Benches + Ottomans - HORNE

Oslo Counter & Bar Stool

Molded foam, and sleek lines define the elevated modern silhouette of the Oslo Counter & Bar Stool. Perfect for kitchen islands and high-top tables, the Oslo Counter stool offers plush comfort and ergonomic support for extended seating. Crafted to envelope the user in the arched backrest and Rholeder fabrics, the Oslo stool is beautifully Scandinavian in its expression and craftsmanship.

Oslo Counter & Bar Stool - Muuto - Chairs - Ocean 32 Fabric/Chrome Legs - Bar Stool - HORNE

Faye Stool

This little carved stool from Ferm Living is an adorable addition to rooms that showcases a superior understanding of wood working and Nordic design history. The simple Faye Stool seat is supported by sculptural, rippled legs and the whole composition is crafted from gorgeous mango wood for a rich and whimsical natural presence.

ferm living faye stool with ferm living sofa and chairs

Root Stool

As its name suggests, the Root Stool is pulled right from the Earth, using the solid and sturdy roots of teak trees. Each stool is varied and unique, showcasing the natural movement and formation of the roots which would have been discarded as waste if not for the sustainable goals of Ferm Living and their designers.

Root Stool - Ferm Living - Stools + Benches + Ottomans - HORNE

Mia Rocking Stool

A modern, elegant solution for those seeking to improve posture and core strength without sacrificing style, the Mia Rocking Stool is truly an interesting seating solution. Perfect as a desk chair or addition to the living room, the Mia Rocking Stool features a minimalist powder-coated metal frame and a leather-upholstered seat to provide simple seating for any environment.

Mia Rocking Stool - Tronk - Stools + Benches + Ottomans - White - HORNE

Industrial Stool

The Industrial Stool truly delivers what it promises through both its composition and use of materials. Brutalist in its expressions, the Industrial Stool features large metal legs that support the concrete seat. The Industrial Stool design achieves reliable functionality through quality materials and structural proportions that create substantial presence without overwhelming residential areas.

Industrial Stool - Urbia Stools + Benches + Ottomans - HORNE

Container Bar Stool

Designer Marcel Wanders expertly took the classical Greek column architecture and turned it into practical seating you can use at a kitchen island or outdoor bar. The Container Bar Stool is sculpted from polyethylene plastic to create that signature tapered shape, as well as add the important details of the footrest and bag hook.

Container Bar Stool - Moooi Stools + Benches + Ottomans - HIGH - black - HORNE

Tribu Stool

Balancing sharp lines and gentle curves, the Tribu Stool pays homage to tribal sculptures while adding sophisticated expressions and timeless durability to any modern space. The cushioned top makes it a nice addition to seating, while its shape and composition make it a piece of art.

Tribu Stool - 101 Copenhagen Stools + Benches + Ottomans - HORNE

OW149F Colonial Foot Stool

Simple, solid, and handcrafted, the OW149F Colonial Foot Stool evokes a sense of Scandinavian furniture tradition while acknowledging modern sensibilities. Solid wood, leather, foam, and handwoven cord come together to create a piece that is comfortable as both a seat and footrest.

OW149F Colonial Foot Stool - Carl Hansen & Son - Stools + Benches + Ottomans - Soaped Oak/Sif 95 - HORNE

Offset Stool

Playing with our expectations, designer Philippe Malouin created the distinctive Offset Stool to infuse the traditional stool concept with a bit of artistic playfulness. Each leg is attached just a little off from center, peaking out beyond the seat edge to look simultaneously avant-garde and artistically fluid.

Offset Stool - Resident - Table + Task - Black - HORNE

Sonder Stool

The swooping seat of the Sonder Stool works perfectly for additional seating, side table functionality, or as an accent piece in kitchens, bedrooms, or living areas. Thoughtfully crafted from oak, the minimalist form combines distinct Scandinavian stool design practices with functional beauty.

Sonder Stool - Form & Refine Chairs - HORNE

Eames® Turned Stool

Less a seat and more inclined to be the perfect side table, the Eames Turned Stool comes in a variety of beautifully crafted shapes that all emulate the stoic pillars of ancient times. Crafted in the USA, the Herman Miller Eames® Turned Stool is both stylish and functional with a unique form that allows for versatile use in all rooms.

Eames® Turned Stool - Shape A - Herman Miller® - Stools + Benches + Ottomans - Ebony - HORNE

Magino Stool and Magazine Rack

Verging on futuristic, the Magino Stool and Magazine Rack from Umbra uses 13 mm thick acrylic to create swoops and curves that not only add unique modern seating to living spaces, but great, built-in storage for magazines, books, and more. Moreover, the transparent structure and sleek design add a modern touch to any room.

Umbra Magino plastic stool seat

X3 Seat

The Artless X3 Seat stool fits perfectly in contemporary kitchens or bars, bringing a touch of elegance and functionality to your space. Solid walnut is used to create the X-shaped base and is complemented perfectly by the leather upholstery and metal footrest ring. Geometric, modern, and durable, the X3 Seat is perfect for both residential and commercial spaces.

Artless X3 Seating bar and counter stool seating

Monster Barstool – Diamond

Moooi strikes again with a chair that is totally its own vibe. The Monster Barstool is part of a series of Brutalist chairs that bring a totally unique presence to modern spaces. Cushioned with a diamond pattern and featuring sculptural legs, the Monster Barstool is a visual feast that offers comfort and versatility in modern spaces that are one of a kind.

Moooi Monster barstool in dining area with Moooi Lighting

Find Stools Perfect For Your Living Room

Finding the perfect stool means shopping the best design studios and most iconic designers. At HORNE, we curate a collection of stools that not only offer a great place to rest, but also tabletop space, dynamic seating, and plenty of curious and interesting silhouettes. Often doubling as art, the stools in our collection transform the way you approach seating for everyday needs and when you invite family and friends over.

Shop all modern seating at HORNE and find exactly what you’re looking for.