At the end of last year Andrew & Sam got in touch with us about putting a Little Pub on their lifestyle block in the Wairarapa that they were developing - a blank canvas is what they called it and the setting of their new rural home.
What we soon discovered was that the pub was intended as a memorial to their 22-year-old son, Thomas, who had passed away earlier in the year. They wanted to create a space for some of his memorabilia and somewhere they could go with family and friends to remember him.

We felt honoured to be entrusted with creating such a special space, so it was really important to us that we capture the memory of Tom and ensure the Little Pub would forever be a special meeting place.

Tom, or "T-Muzz" as he was known, was a keen rugby player who played for a team called the “Scallywags,” from Old Boy’s University in Wellington. When Tom died, they retired his No. 7 jersey, and he continues to be “named” each week in the starting line-up. He also loved surfing and would often go on adventures with his mates chasing waves.

Tom's name sits proudly above the door as you walk in, with the words "In loving memory of Thomas William Murray" on the window.

Pride of place on the inside is Tom's No. 7 rugby jersey, hanging in a specially made frame. The jersey, signed by Tom's teammates, is displayed on the wall next to the bar.

The showcase inside was customised to display some of Tom's memorabilia, including rugby hats and medals collected over the years. The windows, which are usually simple clear glass or stained glass, feature a beach scene overlay, a nod to Tom’s love of surfing.

The words “just one more jug” are also inscribed above the back bar—something Tom was known to say.

Tom’s is a gold model Little Irish Pub, further customised to include Andrew’s WilliamsWarn kegerator behind the bar. The continued Irish theme and memorabilia come from Sam’s side of the family, as her father is Irish. So much special personalisation all together in one little space.

We want to thank Sam, Andrew, and their family for trusting us with Tom’s memorial, and we wish them all the happiest times and memories.

The Murray Family have documented their incredible house build via Instagram which you can see here. You can also follow their new olive growing journey here.