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An upholstered or cushioned stool can look just as modern its non-cushy counterpart. Check out these examples:

FIRST ROW

• 1 Designer Amanda Nisbet puts a twist on the traditional upholstered stool by choosing a metallic crochet, adding texture and shine. (Image via Inspiration for Everyday Living.)

• 2 In another of Nisbet's kitchens, metallic fabric is paired with acrylic for an ultra-modern, yet comfortable, look. The casters on the stools add a practical element.

• 3 We love these custom-upholstered stools featured in House Beautiful. The Galbraith and Paul fabric is a lovely, subtle choice to contrast with all the warm wood. And the upholstery tacks give the stools a bit of edginess, too.

• 4 A more traditional stool graces this Barry Dixon-designed kitchen, but the combination of textures—the fabric seat with a rattan back, echoing the perforated lamp—updates the look. (Image via Alicia B. Designs.)

• 5 The designers at De Lisle, Philpotts, and Staub chose a flowery Asian silk to bring out the earthy tones in the tile backsplash.

SECOND ROW

• 6 One more from Amanda Nisbet, who once again pairs a standout fabric with acrylic... this time, the deep teal upholstery is an unexpected pop of color in a traditional white kitchen.

• 7 and 8 In these last two kitchens, both from Domino (via SFGirlByBay), the designers went for a retro-industrial look by choosing old vinyl upholstery. Stools like these—from barbershops or, indeed, bars—can often be found at flea markets.

What do you think? Is the upholstered bar stool a look you can get behind?