'Building boats has become my passion'
Country Homes & Interiors|August 2024
Wooden boat builder, Obioma Oji
JANET MCMEEKIN
'Building boats has become my passion'

It may seem a leap to go from crafting with clay to working with wood, but for potter-turned-boat builder Obioma Oji, it felt like a return. With my hands, I could feel the subtle undulations of the timber, and relished working with its intricacies to create something beautiful and practical,' she says.

Having graduated in ceramic design from Central Saint Martins in London, Obi began her career working in interior architecture and design in various parts of the UK. Keen to expand and share her knowledge, she lectured in interior design and, while studying for her PhD, created a futuristic land-boat', which she describes as an 'all-in-one bed, sofa, desk and cocoon'.

After relocating from Scotland to design and build room sets for Ikea's London stores, Obi hit a crossroads when the pandemic struck in 2020. I began taking stock and, having experienced academia and the retail world, wasn't sure whether I wanted to continue in either,' she reveals. Inspired by my ceramics background and the experience of building my land-boat, I felt an urge to do something different and work with my hands again."

This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

MORE STORIES FROM COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORSView all
Sowing the seeds for a life of abundance
Country Homes & Interiors

Sowing the seeds for a life of abundance

The perpetual rhythm of planting, tending and harvesting brings a feeling of hope and fulfilment to Diana Yates, and it extends beyond her Greenfields garden to all of her life

time-read
3 mins  |
August 2024
Cabin fever
Country Homes & Interiors

Cabin fever

Offering cosy, doll's house-sized country retreats, cabins combine modern comforts with an immersive experience of nature

time-read
4 mins  |
August 2024
'Building boats has become my passion'
Country Homes & Interiors

'Building boats has become my passion'

Wooden boat builder, Obioma Oji

time-read
3 mins  |
August 2024
Cover-up job
Country Homes & Interiors

Cover-up job

Durable and decorative, cladding is a brilliant way to protect your home's exterior without compromising its aesthetics

time-read
3 mins  |
August 2024
Flights of fancy
Country Homes & Interiors

Flights of fancy

Replace or refurbish your staircase and you'll elevate the appearance of your home at every level. Here are the steps to take...

time-read
4 mins  |
August 2024
TRUE BLUE
Country Homes & Interiors

TRUE BLUE

A firm favourite for decorating, blue is one of the most restful, mindful shades in the colour spectrum. Stylist and interiors expert Sara Bird shares how to use it in your country home

time-read
5 mins  |
August 2024
COUNTER INTELLIGENCE
Country Homes & Interiors

COUNTER INTELLIGENCE

Practical and inspiring ideas for selecting the best kitchen worktop for your space

time-read
3 mins  |
August 2024
A GARDEN GLOW-UP
Country Homes & Interiors

A GARDEN GLOW-UP

As late summer days begin to shorten, extend your time outdoors with a blend of practical and decorative lighting

time-read
2 mins  |
August 2024
TRÈS BELLE
Country Homes & Interiors

TRÈS BELLE

Sharon and Tony Dallas have turned their dilapidated Grade II-listed house in Essex into an enchanting home with a considered colour palette and French treasures galore

time-read
4 mins  |
August 2024
HOME AT LAST
Country Homes & Interiors

HOME AT LAST

Having often walked past their dream property over the years, Rich and Emma Proud finally became its owners and turned it into a comfortable home for three generations of their family

time-read
4 mins  |
August 2024