A sustainable, off-grid study in Dean's Marsh features Plyco's beautiful Premium Birch Plywood.
In the heart of Dean’s Marsh lies an eco-friendly haven: Code Red’s off-grid winery and home. At the centre of this sustainable lifestyle is a study and spare bedroom crafted with Plyco’s 2400 x 1200 x 12mm Premium Birch Plywood. Designed to be completely self-sufficient, this home is a celebration of local craftsmanship, renewable energy, and thoughtful design. Here’s a closer look at how this project came to life.
Powered entirely by solar panels, every light, appliance, and heater runs off renewable energy. Rainwater is harvested and filtered, providing clean water year-round, while an advanced waste system ensures nothing goes to landfill. These systems were designed to work harmoniously, allowing the homeowners to live comfortably with zero reliance on external utilities.
During the build, one of the biggest challenges was integrating these systems seamlessly into the home’s design. The result? A property that functions as beautifully as it looks.
When it came to the study and spare bedroom, Plyco’s Premium Birch Plywood was an obvious choice. Its natural durability, smooth finish, and ability to enhance both aesthetics and function made it perfect for the ceilings, walls, and custom shelving. The plywood’s clean lines create a warm, inviting space—ideal for focusing on work, a good book or enjoying a restful night.
The bespoke shelving was designed to provide ample storage for books, wine-tasting notes, and décor. Birch plywood’s load-bearing strength ensured these shelves could handle heavy tomes while still looking sleek.
Want to know more about Birch Plywood’s versatility? Explore our full guide to Birch Plywood here.
Every element of this home speaks to a commitment to the local community. The bricks used for the main structure were handmade by a local supplier, creating a textured, earthy finish that’s rich in character. Plyco’s Birch Plywood, sourced from your local plywood supplier, ensured that transportation emissions were kept to a minimum while supporting nearby businesses.
Collaborating with local architects and designers brought a uniquely regional flair to the build. This partnership not only resulted in a cohesive aesthetic but also highlighted the skills and resources available within Dean’s Marsh and surrounding areas.
Continuity was key in this project. The study features the same rendered concrete floors as the main house, creating a seamless transition between spaces. This concrete’s earthy texture contrasts beautifully with the smooth, light tones of the Birch Plywood linings.
The plywood walls and ceilings amplify natural light, making the space feel larger and more inviting. Meanwhile, the custom shelving adds depth and character, blending form and function effortlessly. The overall design draws inspiration from the natural surroundings of Dean’s Marsh, ensuring the home feels like an extension of its environment.
Building off the grid presented its share of challenges. Ensuring the materials were both sustainable and durable meant rigorous selection processes and creative problem-solving. Plyco’s Birch Plywood ticked all the boxes, offering eco-credentials alongside timeless style.
The homeowners noted how the plywood’s ease of installation and low-maintenance finish made it a standout choice. “The walls feel alive,” they shared. “The grain brings warmth and movement to the space, which is perfect for our study.”
From a designer’s perspective, the combination of concrete and plywood offered a balance of robustness and elegance. This project has set a benchmark for future off-grid builds.
If this project has sparked ideas for your next build, explore Plyco’s wide range of high-quality, sustainable plywood products. Whether you’re planning a home office, a feature wall, or custom shelving, be sure to look at our other featured customer projects for inspiration.
Need guidance? Get in touch or visit a local supplier near you to kickstart your project.
Photos courtesy of Code Red’s Dean’s Marsh property. A heartfelt thank you to the local designers, architects, and suppliers who made this eco-dream a reality.