Article written by Jake Rosenberg
Founded in 1999 by Stephanie Bertha’s parents, Barstool Comforts has grown from a small showroom operation into a leading provider of custom-made barstools and dining chairs. With a focus on quality craftsmanship and personalization, the company offers customers the chance to create unique pieces that perfectly suit their homes. Stephanie, who now co-leads the company, shares how this journey began, the milestones along the way, and what sets Barstool Comforts apart in a competitive market.
Barstool Comforts was born from a fusion of sales and interior design passions. “My father had a passion for sales, while my mother had a deep love for interior design,” Stephanie explains. “Together, they discovered a niche in the furniture industry that they really enjoyed.” Initially offering a variety of home furniture, the couple quickly realized that many customers wanted more customization options. This insight led the company to narrow its focus to bar stools and dining chairs, areas where customization could shine. “They made it their mission to offer a wide range of finishes and fabrics, so customers could truly personalize their pieces to fit perfectly into their homes,” says Stephanie.
Customization is at the heart of Barstool Comforts’ business model. “Every bar stool and chair is made to order, so you can customize everything from the finish to the fabric,” Stephanie explains. This personalized approach allows customers to design pieces that complement their unique spaces. Beyond the aesthetic, Barstool Comforts prioritizes quality. “We carefully choose manufacturers that share our high standards, so you can trust that your custom piece is built to last.”
The journey hasn’t always been smooth. In its early days, Barstool Comforts faced significant challenges in a competitive market. “We were really close to shutting down in the early days,” Stephanie admits. However, the company’s small size allowed for personalized customer service, which ultimately became a key differentiator. “Being small allowed us to give them a truly personal, exceptional experience, and that personal touch set us apart.”
As Barstool Comforts found its footing, the company made key decisions that defined its identity. “In the beginning, we didn’t just offer bar stools—we sold chandeliers and other home decor items too. Plus, not everything was custom-made at first,” Stephanie recalls. The company eventually embraced its niche, focusing exclusively on custom-made furniture and working only with North American manufacturers. “Over time, these decisions shaped who we are today, and they’ve become core to what Barstool Comforts stands for.”
The company’s commitment to customization goes beyond providing options—it includes guiding customers through the entire process. For those unsure of what might work best in their space, Barstool Comforts offers personalized assistance from the company’s own interior design expert. “She’ll often ask for a couple of photos of your kitchen or space, and based on that, she’ll recommend styles that compliment your decor,” Stephanie explains.
Customers can customize everything from seat height to materials, finishes, and even additional features like swivel functionality or arms. “To help you make the perfect choice, we offer free samples, so you can see and feel the materials before making a decision,” Stephanie adds.
As a company that pays close attention to design trends, Barstool Comforts has seen a rise in curved chair designs and the enduring popularity of gold finishes. Bold colors, such as deep blues, earthy greens, and vibrant reds, are also gaining traction in kitchen spaces. Quality craftsmanship is a cornerstone of their business. “We prioritize fabrics with a higher rub count than the industry average,” Stephanie says, adding that their bar stools use durable materials like powder-coated metal finishes and high-quality hardwoods.
Barstool Comforts places immense value on customer service. “At Barstool Comforts, customer service is at the heart of everything we do,” Stephanie says. The company prides itself on prompt communication and follow-through, ensuring customers feel heard and valued at every step. A memorable story involves a customer who sought a chair to complement a family heirloom—a 1930s roll-top desk. Deborah worked closely with him to create the perfect piece. “He said he’d never imagined being able to customize so many variables to create a truly one-of-a-kind piece,” Stephanie recalls.
Barstool Comforts is poised for growth, with plans to expand into the contract market, providing custom seating to restaurants, bars, and hotels. “We’re now extending that same level of comfort and quality to commercial spaces,” Stephanie says. Sustainability is also a key focus for the company’s future. With customers increasingly seeking durable and eco-friendly furniture, Barstool Comforts is positioning itself to meet these demands through innovative materials and partnerships.
