Probably best to jump in at the deep end by mentioning I have little in the way of refined woodworking skills, most of my projects to date have been fairly hefty, doors, raised beds some carpentry (of sorts) fitting mortise locks but that's it.
Normally I would get a quote for something special and go from there, however this is slightly different as it's a prototype which is likely to need many changes along the way hence my pondering it myself.
To get started I need a few pointers on a) suitable wood and b) correct tools to use, let me give a brief description.
The structure is around is around 600mm wide, 350mm deep, 400mm high - at either end are two shaped pieces of plywood supporting two shelves

The ends need to be shaped with equal proportions similar to above picture, one shelf will sit on the top (where the bottom of desk is), the second at the opposite end
This unit will likely be used within kitchens so some moisture to be expected, eventually these will be hand finished to show the grain.
Marine plywood came to mind or birch ply, but the are just guesses - would appreciate any suggestions on this, also to make those shapes, tool pointer too - thanks,
David