The design of this chair requires the use of a relatively large volume of wood, and while it would be possible to reduce the quantity, for example through the use of lamination, this would contravene its aesthetic purpose. It is intended to be weighty and durable. In sustainability terms the durability is an important factor. Church furniture can easily last for over a century, and there is no reason why this chair should not do the same. It is robust and will not fall out of fashion. With no delicate parts that could fail, it should ensure a long lifespan in this form for the timber that it embodies.