What is the nicest STOOL for a MODERN KITCHEN  

JeffB,
The Cherner's are...
JeffB,
The Cherner's are terrific.
jesgord,
Outre! And not even a sprung Brooks B72! Talk about a hemorrhoid waiting to happen!! I would need a B66. 🙂
Actually, this seems the ultimate stool for the bicycling hang outs and I like it.

B66 pic...
for your future design consideration.
http://www.outsideoutfitters.com/p-13094-brooks-b-66-saddle.aspx

I agree with jesgord
you can't beat the Aalto stool. Classic and surprisingly comfortable....and it ages very nicely.

Really?
The flat seat doesn't look comfortable at all.

Emecos
Could be nice too.

Series 7
Lol @ LRF: a bar in my neighborhood just opened with fake Bertoias. After 10 minutes everyone in my party was squirming in pain. They really are horrendous!
For sheer comfort I really like Series 7 barstools. The flex in the back is juuuust right. I also rather like Starck's Hudson Stool for Emeco, even though I'm loathe to admit liking anything Starck has done.

Just don't...
Lean back too hard on the Series 7. 😮
My favorite Emeco stools are the Navy and 20-06.