Obi talks about her career shift in Country Homes & Interiors magazine

At BlueTree Boat Builders, we are delighted to celebrate the journey of our own Obioma Oji, who was recently featured in the Country Homes & Interiors magazine, discussing her career shift into the world of boatbuilding. In an insightful interview with journalist Janet McMeekin, Obi shares how her passion for design and sustainability led her to sign up to the 40 week boat building course at the prestigious Boat Building Academy in Lyme Regis, Dorset a move that transformed her career.

Obi hit a crossroads when the pandemic struck in 2020, it was at this time that she decided to take the leap from interior design at Ikea to the craft-focused world of boat building, finding a deeper connection with her work and the environment. Her story is one of reinvention, as she applied her technical expertise to a new field that marries tradition with innovation. 

"Boatbuilding allows me to blend my love for design with a commitment to sustainability," Obi told us. "It's an incredibly rewarding experience to work with my hands, create something beautiful, and know that we’re preserving these traditional skills while pushing for a greener future."

Her feature in Country Homes & Interiors shines a light on the growing trend of people seeking more meaningful, hands-on careers—particularly in industries like boatbuilding that offer a tangible connection to nature and sustainability. For Obi, the move has been a deeply fulfilling adventure, one that not only aligns with her values but also allows her to be part of an evolving industry.

At BlueTree, we are proud of Obi’s incredible achievements and the inspiring leadership she brings.. Her dedication to excellence and sustainability continues to shape our vision and inspire others to rethink their own career paths.

Read Obi’s full story in the August issue of Country Homes & Interiors, where she discusses the beauty of boatbuilding, the importance of sustainability, and how she’s helping to pave the way for future generations.