The Serena & Lily Balboa Counter Stool is a popular choice for its beachy, relaxed style, which brings a light and airy feeling along with a touch of luxury to any space. As an interior designer, I can tell you that while the Balboa stool offers incredible style, its $700 price tag makes it a tough buy for many. Thankfully, there are some great, budget-friendly alternatives that provide a similar look and feel without the hefty price.
Serena & Lily Balboa Counter Stool
The Balboa stool is great for making rooms feel relaxed and beachy. It has a square shape, made of rattan and a woven cane back. It also has shiny gold accents and a soft cushion, sometimes in light blue. The natural look of rattan helps make kitchens and dining spaces feel cozy and peaceful. But at $700, it’s not in everyone’s budget. Thankfully, there are stools that look a lot like it but cost less.
- Design: The Balboa stool has a square rattan frame with a woven cane backrest. It comes with a soft cushion that you can remove, often in light blue.
- Materials: Rattan and cane make it look natural and light—perfect for a beachy home.
- Special Touches: Shiny gold parts on the footrest and legs add a fancy touch, making this stool good for both casual and formal spaces.
- Why People Like It: The Balboa stool mixes natural looks with fancy details. It stands out because of its craftsmanship and how nice it looks.
I worked on a project where a client loved the Balboa stool but needed a cheaper choice. I found three other stools that looked just as good but were easier on the wallet. Each one brought the same warm, beachy feel to the room.
Dupe 1 – Jennifer Taylor Home Janalisa Rattan Wicker Counter Stool
For a client who wanted the Balboa look but also needed something practical, I picked the Jennifer Taylor Home Janalisa stool. It has stain-resistant fabric and a rattan backrest, which keeps that coastal vibe. The oak frame and brass footrest make it sturdy and stylish, perfect for a busy kitchen.
- Design: French country style with a high-back armless design.
- Materials: Rattan backrest, oak frame, stain-resistant polyester seat.
- Price: At around $285, it offers high-end looks with stain-resistant functionality for busy households.
Dupe 2 – OSP Home Furnishings Alania Wood Counter Stool
For a farmhouse-inspired kitchen, I chose the OSP Home Furnishings Alania stool. It has a cane back and padded seat, making it comfortable, and the rustic wood frame gives it that coastal look. This stool works well in lots of different styles, from modern to traditional.
- Design: Coastal chic with a rustic wood finish and padded seat.
- Materials: Cane back, polyester seat, engineered wood frame.
- Price: Priced at around $146, it’s a fantastic budget-friendly option with a clean, coastal appeal..
Dupe 3 – Nathan James Bailey Upholstered Rattan Stool
In a modern boho home, I used the Nathan James Bailey stool to get the same relaxed vibe as the Balboa. The rattan backrest and bouclé fabric seat make it charming, and the oak frame is sturdy. It’s a great choice for dining areas where you want comfort and style.
- Design: Boho style with a woven rattan back and oak frame.
- Materials: Rattan back, bouclé fabric seat, oak wood frame.
- Price: At around $160, this stool provides both charm and comfort, making it a great choice for a modern, airy space
Choosing the Right Stool for Your Space
When selecting the perfect counter stool, consider not only your budget but also the style and function that best suit your space. If you’re after a traditional, high-backed option, the Jennifer Taylor Home Janalisa stool provides both comfort and style. For those seeking a blend of modern and rustic, the OSP Home Furnishings Alania stool adds a touch of sophistication with its cane backing and wood frame. And for smaller, more eclectic spaces, the Nathan James Bailey stool’s rounded design and compact frame offer both charm and practicality.
Styling Tips for Your Coastal-Inspired Bar Stools
To make your stools look great:
- Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to pair different stool styles in the same space. The subtle differences in shape or material can add visual interest while maintaining a cohesive coastal theme.
- Neutral Accessories: Enhance the natural textures of rattan and cane by incorporating neutral-toned accessories like linen cushions, jute rugs, or wooden tableware.
- Play with Lighting: Complement your stools with pendant lighting in similar natural materials—think wicker or rattan shades—to tie the room together seamlessly.
Closing Thoughts: Find Your Perfect Dupe
The Serena & Lily Balboa Counter Stool is undeniably a gorgeous piece, but with so many high-quality alternatives available, you can easily achieve the same look without overspending. Whether you prefer the high-backed elegance of the Jennifer Taylor Home Janalisa, the rustic charm of the OSP Home Furnishings Alania, or the playful design of the Nathan James Bailey, these stools offer great style at a fraction of the cost.
