In all heart-worthy spaces you’ve seen in your social feeds of late, we’d bet that there’s one common accessory. Nestled by a chair, styled by a bathtub, or propping up a plant,  you’ll likely spot a rustic wooden stool. Brimming with character and charm, these low-slung accessories add a little warmth and eye-catching height contrast to any space. 

But these lightweight accessories aren’t just aesthetically-pleasing, they’re incredibly functional. Whether you need a plant stand, foot rest, cocktail table, bath stool, side table, makeshift nightstand, or simply a leg up in the kitchen or home office, a wooden stool checks every box. There’s a reason this staple is spotted in so many designer homes, including our very own Shelby Girard’s space.

Our advice? Invest in one you love, and treat it as a floating accent. Move it around your home to suit your needs, whether you’re grabbing a bowl from the top shelf or lounging in a deep sectional and can’t be bothered to reach for your glass of wine (we get it).

Ahead, find our favorite ways to style this piece, plus five products we love.

As an accent table

Sipping tea on a seldom-used armchair or lounging on your daybed for a change? Simply grab your wooden stool and use it as a side table. It’s the perfect makeshift home for your current read, cup of coffee, or favorite candle for a little ambiance.

As a foot stool

A wooden stool is the perfect complement to a sculptural accent chair that’s all form and no function. Kick up your feet and use it as a foot stool to add a little comfort and practicality when needed! Plus, it adds the perfect pop of warmth to a neutral or cool-toned space.

As a bath stool

Anyone who takes bath time seriously knows that a wooden stool is an absolute essential. Nestle it up against your tub and use it to stash a book, candle, face mask, glass of wine, body wash, an extra towel, and beyond — it’ll improve your soak tenfold.

As a plant stand

Wooden stools are clutch when trying to add height to an empty corner or styled vignette. Give a new plant or fresh bouquet a little leg up by using your stool as a makeshift plant stand — your sun-seeking friends will appreciate the boost, too!

As a step stool

We’d argue that all home libraries, offices, and kitchens should come with a wooden step stool. Keep this accessory on-hand in any space with tall storage cabinets, bookshelves, or hard-to-reach cabinets for a boost when you need it most.

As a cocktail table

When enjoying happy hour at home, sometimes you can’t be bothered to reach more than a few inches for your cocktail. Yes, even a coffee table can feel too far away. In these (very important) instances, pull up your wooden stool and lounge while you imbibe.

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