Overview
I needed a barstool set for our daughter’s first apartment. A solid wood set was key because barstools tend to take a lot of abuse, including shoes moving around on the footrests, and I didn’t want a set that would start looking worn in a few short weeks. I selected the X-back barstools from Ophelia Co as they are solid wood, have the wood tone I was looking for (a nice balanced brown without yellow or red undertones), and I liked the fabriclinen-look padded seat.
Assembly
The first barstool went together easily. The instructions were clear and I had all the parts I needed. The second barstool assembly was also rolling along until it got to attaching the second front leg. As you can see in my photos, the first leg had six holes drilled so the center bolts could attach the leg to the seat box. However, the second leg did not have the holes for the bolts. I took one star off for that because, while I had the tools to do the job, it was a bit frustrating drilling the holes to ensure they matched up perfectly with the threaded leg holes. I finally got everything lined up and assembled and the finished chairs are perfect.
Assembly TipsComments
1. Aside from the missing holes, which I imagine isn’t common, the assembly was easy and did not require the help of a second person.
2. If you have a drill and a set of hex screwdriver bits, use them instead of the included the allen wrench. You will want your drill anyways (and a Phillips Head bit) when you attach the seat to the seat box).
Final Impression
Nice, solid barstools that offer an attractive, comfortable, and stable place to sit. If the one chair hadn’t have been missing the two bolt holes, I would have rated them five stars.
