Real Custom Woodworking

This week I was able to stop by Sam Poola's shop and talk about his career and relationship with Policastro Construction.

Let's dig deeper.

With over 30 years of experience in custom woodworking, Sam Poola’s legacy is built on precision, innovation, and a deep passion for creating one-of-a-kind pieces. A skilled craftsman taught by his father, Sam Poola can build anything you can dream of out of wood and does this with immense detail and thought. The only supply he orders is hardware. Throughout his career, he has worked for some of the biggest contractors in America and has also done custom work for small families. Poola and Policastro Construction have had a strong working relationship and palpable mutual respect for the past 30 years as well. It was evident in our conversation that there is a similar work ethic and pride in finished projects.

"From the ground up," he says, describing the method by which he creates each piece—whether it’s doors, cabinets, vanities, or drawers. Poola’s approach to custom woodworking has remained grounded in the values that have fueled his career for decades. By focusing on the specific needs of his clients, every project is cut to precise measurements, ensuring not only a unique aesthetic but also unmatched functionality. In a world where cookie-cutter solutions are all too common, Poola’s commitment to custom craftsmanship continues to make him a leader in his field.

Every project is hand drawn prior to his builds. Poola builds and installs all of his custom creations. He also provides custom corian countertops. Poola states he has a room in his shop with a moveable wall dedicated to building an entire kitchen worth of cabinets to be sure every inch of his build is exactly what his customers desire prior to install.

Imagine being able to step into his shop, seeing your kitchen take shape, and offering feedback as your project progresses.

This hands-on approach undoubtedly changes the way clients interact with their future builds, ensuring every inch of their design is exactly what they’ve envisioned. And for those who believe custom woodworking can’t match the speed of larger companies—think again. Poola’s ability to craft a door in mere minutes can drastically reduce wait times for high-quality, custom products, making him a valuable asset for anyone seeking the very best in design and functionality.

As the future unfolds, Poola will stay true to the values instilled by his father—"No matter how good it looks on the outside, do it right because someone might take it apart in the future." These words will continue to guide him in the years to come, making certain that every cabinet, door, and countertop he crafts will be built to last. Poola also warns that some "custom cabinets" you can buy elsewhere are marketed as so when they are actually a custom design on a stock cabinet.

Even after 30+ years in the business, Poola has never had a listed phone number —yet, he has never been without work. His reputation speaks for itself. Over the years, he has built custom creations for everyone, including high-profile athletes in Pittsburgh. As with Policastro Construction, his success lies not only in his craftsmanship but in his ability to forge genuine relationships with clients, ensuring their vision is fully realized in every project.

It's clear that Sam Poola will continue to redefine what it means to create custom woodworking for many years. His legacy of exceptional craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and commitment to quality will endure for decades to come.

Thank You, Sam Poola

Sam, your work is more than just craftsmanship—it’s a testament to dedication, skill, and integrity. We look forward to the future and the countless projects yet to come. Thank you for your attention to detail, your unwavering commitment to excellence, and for being such an invaluable partner and friend.