A Texas man has transformed part of his backyard into a fully functional pub, spending approximately $61,500 on the project. Stephen Hutyra, a program analyst residing in West, Texas, embarked on this ambitious venture to create a space for family gatherings and social events, inspired by a Facebook post he encountered in November 2020.
The idea came to Hutyra while scrolling through social media, where he saw a couple in England who had built a small pub in their backyard. Captivated by the concept, he envisioned a larger version for himself. “We have a saying that everything is bigger and better in Texas,” Hutyra remarked, expressing his desire to surpass the original design. After securing his wife’s approval, he began purchasing furniture and decor, even before the construction began.
Over the next few years, Hutyra meticulously planned his pub, named The Thirsty Goat. Drawing from his time in the Navy, where he developed an appreciation for pub culture during his stationing in England, he wanted the space to reflect both his personal history and the camaraderie he cherished.
By July 2023, Hutyra was ready to move forward. He took out a bank loan for $44,320 and obtained the necessary permits to build the pub. With the help of a contractor, construction commenced in August, marking the beginning of a four-month journey to bring his vision to life.
A construction team laid the groundwork, installing essential utilities and crafting the structural elements of the pub. Hutyra later took charge of the interior finishes with assistance from his father and son, both skilled in woodworking. Together, they completed tasks such as installing ceilings, painting walls, and constructing the bar.
The project proved to be more costly than initially anticipated. Hutyra had originally budgeted around $30,000, but as materials and labor costs accumulated, the final expense reached over $61,500. Despite the financial challenges, Hutyra remained committed to realizing his dream.
Once completed, The Thirsty Goat featured a dark-wood bar, string lights, and a warm, inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a cozy pub. The interior is adorned with framed photos, a chalkboard menu, and even a themed bathroom, all contributing to its charm.
The name of the pub holds special significance for Hutyra. “The goat is kind of like the official mascot for the Navy,” he explained, referencing a historical connection where goats were kept on ships for fresh provisions. This connection to his military background adds a personal touch to the establishment.
Hutyra’s pub has quickly become a hub for family celebrations and relaxation. “We find ourselves sitting out here in the middle of the week until midnight or until 2 or 3 a.m. on the weekends with family and friends,” he shared. Since its completion in August 2023, the pub has exceeded Hutyra’s expectations, solidifying its place as a cherished gathering spot.
Hutyra’s commitment to family is evident not only in the pub’s design but also in its decor. A jar from 1903, belonging to his great-grandmother, now serves as a unique tip jar. Additionally, materials salvaged from a historic family barn, built by his great-great-great-grandfather, were repurposed to create the bar’s surface.
The Thirsty Goat stands as a testament to Hutyra’s dedication to family and community, embodying his vision for a lively space where memories can be made. As he reflects on the journey, Hutyra expresses gratitude for the support of his family and the fulfillment of his dream: a personal pub that brings friends and relatives together in a warm, welcoming environment.
