Article written by Jake Rosenblatt.

Barstool Comforts, a family-owned business founded in 1999, has built a reputation on delivering customizable seating solutions for homes across the U.S. and Canada. What began as a small furniture showroom has transformed into an online powerhouse for personalized bar stools, dining chairs, gaming tables and chairs, and more, driven by the founders’ belief in combining design, quality, and personal service.

The company’s origins are rooted in the complementary strengths of its founders—a father passionate about sales and a mother with an eye for interior design. “They saw a gap in the market where customers wanted more than just stock furniture,” explains the current owner, who took over the business from their parents. “They wanted pieces that matched their decor perfectly, which led us to focus on customizable bar stools.”

What sets Barstool Comforts apart from other furniture retailers is its commitment to allowing customers to tailor every aspect of their bar stools, from the material and finish to specific features like seat height, swivel functions, and armrests. Each order is built to the customer’s specifications and made with quality materials to ensure durability and comfort.

From Close Calls to Key Growth

Like many small businesses, Barstool Comforts faced significant challenges early on. “There were times we thought we wouldn’t make it,” the owner recalls. “The barstool market was highly competitive, and we weren’t sure if we could stand out. But we dug in and kept going, because we knew we were onto something with the level of personalization we offered.”

That persistence paid off. The turning point came when the company chose to focus exclusively on customizable bar stools and dining chairs, stepping away from other home decor products. This decision, along with a growing online presence, helped define Barstool Comforts’ unique position in the market.

One of the defining principles of Barstool Comforts is a dedication to North American craftsmanship. The company works exclusively with manufacturers in the U.S. and Canada to maintain strict quality control and support local jobs. “Our stools are built to last,” says the owner. “We believe in supporting ethical production practices and partnering with manufacturers who care about quality as much as we do.”

Making Customization Easy

At Barstool Comforts, the customer’s vision comes first. The company’s process is designed to be both intuitive and flexible, allowing customers to mix and match fabrics, finishes, and design elements to create their perfect seating solution. Free samples are available to help customers choose the right materials, and expert guidance is offered throughout the process.

For customers who are unsure where to start, Barstool Comforts offers personalized design consultations. Deborah, the company’s in-house interior design expert, helps customers make choices based on their space and lifestyle needs. “Deborah is amazing at guiding people through the decision-making process,” the owner says. “She helps them visualize how their custom bar stool will fit into their home, which is invaluable.”

Adapting to Trends

As design trends evolve, so too does Barstool Comforts’ product offering. The company has seen an increase in demand for bold colors in kitchen spaces, with deep blues, earthy greens, and rich reds gaining popularity. Curved designs are also trending, with more customers opting for bar stools with rounded backs and legs to create a softer, more inviting feel.

“We’re always paying attention to what’s trending in home design,” the owner notes. “It’s exciting to see more people embracing bold colors and modern shapes in their kitchens. We offer a wide variety of options so customers can stay on-trend while creating something uniquely theirs.”

A Focus on Customer Care

Customer service is a cornerstone of Barstool Comforts’ business philosophy. Whether it’s a quick response to inquiries or a follow-up after delivery, the company goes the extra mile to ensure a seamless experience from start to finish. Negative feedback is seen as an opportunity for improvement, and the team takes every customer concern seriously.

“One of the most important things we’ve learned is that customer feedback is a gift,” says the owner. “If someone isn’t happy, we want to know about it so we can make it right. We’ve even expanded our product offerings based on customer requests.”

A particularly memorable customer experience involved a man searching for a bar stool to complement his cherished 1930s roll-top desk, which had been passed down through his family for decades. The desk was both a beautiful antique and a deeply sentimental piece. With Deborah’s help, the customer was able to create a chair that not only matched the desk’s unique style but also provided the comfort and functionality he needed. “It was one of those moments that reminded us why we do what we do,” the owner recalls.

Looking Ahead: Expansion into Commercial Spaces

As Barstool Comforts continues to grow, the company is branching out into the Contract market, providing custom seating for restaurants, bars, and hotels. “We’re excited to take what we’ve learned about home seating and apply it to commercial spaces,” the owner shares. “Our goal is to help businesses create stylish, comfortable environments, just like we do for homes.”

The company is also staying ahead of trends by partnering with innovative manufacturers like IH Seating, which produces eco-friendly aluminum bar stools designed to mimic the look of wood or metal. These options provide customers with a more affordable alternative while maintaining the durability and high standards Barstool Comforts is known for.

Sustainable, Durable, and Personalized

As sustainability becomes a key trend in the furniture industry, Barstool Comforts is positioning itself as a leader in offering eco-friendly, long-lasting products. The company’s commitment to quality craftsmanship and personalization ensures that its furniture not only looks good but stands the test of time.

“We believe in creating furniture that’s both beautiful and built to last,” the owner concludes. “Sustainability is the future of the industry, and we’re proud to be part of that movement.”

With a legacy of dedication to customization, quality, and customer care, Barstool Comforts is poised for continued growth in both residential and commercial markets, ensuring that personalized seating remains a hallmark of comfort and style.