When Southspace founder Matt Livey set out to convert a 16th-century Grade II listed building into a modern co-working space, he faced a familiar tension: how to introduce contemporary design without erasing the structure’s historic character.
The solution came in the form of Finnish birch plywood. Livey, a longtime admirer of the material, chose WISA-Birch for its visual warmth and adaptability. Its long-grain finish and sustainability credentials made it an ideal foundation for the project, which aimed to create a tranquil, cohesive interior in Dorking’s Mount House.
Balancing old and new
Livey’s design philosophy centered on materials that would age gracefully within the heritage setting. “We wanted something that would sit happily in a historic location,” he said. “WISA-Birch’s striking long grains drove my color choices and helped create the harmonious atmosphere I was after. It finishes beautifully, whether you’re using oils, stains, or varnishes.”
The plywood, supplied by UK distributor James Latham, met EN636-2 and EN314-2 Class 3 standards, ensuring durability for a range of applications. Its robust cross-banding provided the strength needed for furniture, storage, and interior finishes—all while maintaining a natural aesthetic.
Locally CNC-cut by Buzz Productions, the 18mm WISA-Birch was used to craft adaptable pegboard storage, desk surfaces, hybrid planter-bookshelves, and bespoke window displays. Off-cuts were repurposed into custom elements like trapezoid table legs, reducing waste and aligning with the project’s low-carbon ethos. Additional metalwork by Marcus Etherington and a poured resin floor by Sphere8 complemented the plywood, creating a unified interior scheme.
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This approach isn’t entirely new. Historic renovations often rely on modern materials to bridge the gap between past and present, but few do so with such deliberate simplicity. The success of Mount House lies in its restraint—letting the plywood’s natural texture and warmth carry the design, rather than overwhelming the space with elaborate interventions.
Sustainability as a priority
Beyond aesthetics, the project prioritized environmental responsibility. WISA-Birch’s PEFC certification, European manufacturing, and low formaldehyde emissions aligned with Southspace’s sustainability goals. The material’s versatility also minimized waste, a key consideration in any modern build.
Livey reflected on the collaboration with James Latham, calling it invaluable. “It shows what’s possible when you push plywood in a challenging setting,” he said. The completed workspace, finished in November 2025, demonstrates how contemporary materials can enhance—not compete with—historic architecture.
Today, James Latham stocks WISA-Birch Premium plywood nationwide, offering technical support for designers and specifiers looking to replicate its success in similar projects.
