Chinese Garden Stools

154 Ideas by Emily Hilton

The Chinese figured out how to garden beautifully with very simple tools. They didn't need four different types of Pitchfork or three different types of rake; they used what was available. And it is this spirit of ingenuity that has inspired us to offer this collection of Chinese garden tools. They are designed to last forever and are remarkably efficient when used properly. See collection for details.

Antique Revival Diana Garden Stool, Aqua

Distinctive garden stool tastefully handcrafted from solid wood with no composites. It presents a modern take on Chinese leisure seats design. It is versatile enough to mingle beautifully with many other styles.

Antique chinese ceramic garden stools image 3

Antique Chinese Ceramic Garden Stools image 3

Vince brass hexagon garden stool

Vince brass hexagon garden stool

An interesting functional and decorative element that will enhance the decor of many types of rooms. This stool was crafted with a hardwood frame, so its solidity is its most important advantage. Its size (14" diam x 18.5" h) doesn't take too much space in the room.

Oriental Furniture Classic Asian Furniture and Unique Gifts, 18-Inch Qing Rosewood Barrel Stool Planter Stand, Rosewood

A charming Asian rustic style stool which can also be used as a planter stand. Its barrel -like openwork body is handmade of rosewood with a dark matte lacquer finish. It has a round top, vertically slatted sides and small feet.

Chinese garden stools 4

This exotic Asian style garden stool serves diversed applications: it can become a side table as well. Openwork sides sport floral motif that lets the light shine through. Interesting multi-toned blue finish is another feature worth mentioning.

Safavieh Castle Gardens Collection Chinese Dragon Ceramic Garden Stool, Green

Designed of high quality ceramic, this garden stool enhances outdoors as well as indoors with its lovely Chinese dragon design that surrounds the whole piece. The stool is easy to clean, and can also be used as a side table or beautiful decoration.

Blue and white kylin chinese porcelain stool china

Blue and white kylin chinese porcelain stool china

An interesting stool that mainly plays a decorative role in the house. It is made of Chinese porcelain so its decorative value is high. Of course it is a solid stool that can be used indoors or outdoors as an additional seat.

Celadon Garden Stool Lotus Pattern in Green

This stylish garden stool is characterized by ceramic construction, and a beautiful green lotus pattern. Designed for both indoors and outdoors, the stool can also be used as a side or coffee table, or decoration stand.

Embossed Swirl Garden Stool

Embossed Swirl Garden Stool

Picture-postcard contemporary stool which can serve as a coffee table. It's crafted of quality ceramic with a wonderful glossy gold finish. It's barrel-shaped and features embossed top and bottom parts as well as oval and square cutouts in centre.

Talia Stool

Talia Stool

Sturdy ceramic stool with multi-tone finish in brown and blue, with decorative trim and piercings that enhance its appealing looks. It may be used indoors and outdoors and not only as a stool - it works great as a sidetable or plant pot rack too.

Chinese Garden Stools

Buying Guide

Decorative Chinese garden stools have been gaining popularity in the Western world for the past 40 years. Evolving from the Song Dynasty era from tree stumps and smooth rocks, the exquisite colors and designs make them perfect for indoor or outdoor use. The flat surface on top of a barrel-shaped base provides a nice end table or a durable seat.

Although stools appear artistic in nature, they are versatile in usefulness. Able to bear 200 pounds of weight, materials are substantial.

  • Ceramic - Original imports of Chinese stools began 300 years ago and were made of ceramic. This tradition has continued with hundreds of unique designs. Manufacturing is no longer limited to Eastern countries, but the quality of handmade ceramics remains the same.
  • Wood - Solid chunks of wood that are carved into artistic designs or natural bark that has been treated and finished add a rustic or chic country look inside or out.
  • Metal - Modern decors have brought new dimension to Chinese stools with bronze, stainless steel or pewter as a sophisticated way to present their beauty.
  • Rattan - Woven wicker makes a natural statement in today's eco-friendly home. Not as durable as other materials, this product should be kept indoors with a weight limit of 150 pounds.

Chinese garden stools are available to fit any decor. They come is styles and designs such as?

  • Feng Shui - A simple, yet elegant design that is suited for minimized, modern or contemporary settings.
  • Eastern Culture - White background with blue drawings of Chinese flowers or scenes keeps the traditional mode with oriental or traditional decors.
  • Modern Geometric - Usually made with an open metal base, different designs made with wire and metals create a modern statement.
  • Rustic Wood - Wood is a natural in presenting the simple life without frills.
  • Artistic - Artisans are beginning to add their flair for individual work through ceramics. Painting a scene in their known field can be covered with a high gloss for eternal protection.

The typical size for stools is 17" to 20" tall and 13" to 15" deep. However, there are different sizes to fit almost any space, depending on your desire. Squatted models that sit low to the ground for gardens or tall majestic pairs for entryways can be found for specific uses.

Stools are easy to care for by wiping clean with a dry or damp cloth. Rattan and rough wood should be vacuumed or dusted with a treated feather duster. Shine polished metals to remove fingerprints and grime. Take care not to place ceramics around young children that could accidentally knock over. Although sturdy enough to sit on, they can break if they come into contact with a hard surface.