The way we use our kitchens has definitely changed. It is still very much the heart of the home. However, gone are the days when we sat down to eat at a formal table in a separate dining room to where we cook.

Now our kitchens are the main hub. A place to gather and chat as we create our favourite recipes. This is where we often host guests. So finding the right furniture to suit these spaces has evolved and become more welcoming.

Many of us now have a breakfast bar or kitchen island and these are the perfect place to add some modern bar stools. We love ours and they suit our children as well as the adults. They are used as a little home bar at breakfast, for after-school snacks, and much more. I actually get much more information about the school day from my children when they are sat at the breakfast bar as it's such a social way to get together.

So how do you choose the best modern counter stools?

The best part of choosing kitchen furniture is that there is now a wide range of styles with modern design and high-quality materials. There is something to suit every home. There are traditional designs, chrome bar stool items, wood stools or upholstered seats.

Think about the style of your kitchen and what might enhance your surroundings further. You can match with your existing dining furniture by choosing high back options or contrast with a steel base and even faux leather. There are beautiful designs, stainless steel, contemporary styles or you can even choose a designer bar stool by a luxury brand. Who mostly uses your kitchen from family to guests? If it's a high traffic area already then this will influence what fabric you choose and how sturdy or delicate you would like the design.

Consider if you would rather have a swivel barstool to make it easier to move around, although many products now are quite lightweight. Should you choose adjustable height stools? I would really recommend this as you never know who will be using them. Would you like an armless stool or firm armrests? These are good if children are around, but armrests do make the stool wider, so measure how much capacity you have.

We find them a great space-saver as they are tucked away under the breakfast bar until needed. However, even in a smaller kitchen or flat, they are great for quick dining before leaving for work or having friends over for drinks as they are such a versatile option.

Bearing this in mind, research properly how many chairs you will need. It's always better to fill the space you have as they are a very popular way to hang out with friends and family. Generally, 3 or 4 stools is considered a good number.

Finding modern stools to match your home decor will not be a problem. The sheer choice of new products available might be! To narrow this down extra things to check are the measurements for the counter height table. It sounds obvious but read the seat height information on every stool you consider. Will low back stools be a bit problematic for young families? Once you’ve thought of these important issues decide on the different finishes. Remember to think about if it's better to choose a timeless style that won't be a passing trend.

Why are kitchen bar stools so useful?

So now you know how to find the best furniture for your modern kitchen why are they such a must-have item?

The main way we use them is that they allow family and friends to join us in the kitchen in a casual and very sociable way. Our kids do their homework sitting on a barstool at the kitchen counter. I find it much easier to keep an eye on them and we can go through their work and they ask for help more willingly. Now we can actually see people in person again, our friends can perch at the stools, keeping us company while we cook or prepare some drinks. My husband and I often use them as an impromptu date night, one of us will create some appetizing aperitivo snack and the other can pour the Spritz!

They are just perfect for kitchen hangouts and any type of informal dining space which really suits modern living.

Another reason to think about this type of furniture is that they can be used elsewhere. Modern more industrial-styled bar stools are being used as high tables in places where space is tight. These can be ideal console tables in hallways and bathrooms.

In bedrooms, they are great for holding a pile of books and your coffee, all ready for you in the mornings. You can create a little reading spot and use them either as the table or buy a high-backed, soft, cosy stool to sit in and gaze out of the windows. I use one of mine for this as we have lovely views across some fields at the back of our garden.

If you have a balcony, stools solve your seating problems as they take up little space and given the wide range of styles you can find a stool that suits your planting and outdoor zone. Should you be lucky enough to have a patio or terrace having some bar stools outside around the BBQ area makes it a pleasant place to socialise while you're grilling for your party!

There are many options for creating a wonderful atmosphere in your home using more relaxed dining furniture. Given how much we love our kitchens and how much care we give to those we share them with, it makes sense to get this right.

If you’re all comfortable with plenty of relaxed spaces to hang out together, the better the gathering. Even if it's just getting that homework done each night or seeing your children have their breakfast with you.

PR Product: I was gifted some products in return for this post. However, all content is 100% my own choice and opinions.