A Family Legacy of Building Well

Pakala Construction is a family-run construction management firm serving the Greater Ann Arbor area — guiding high-end custom homes with clarity, craftsmanship, and respect for design.

The Pakala Story

Pakala Construction was founded on a simple belief: when something is built, it should be built to last.

For over 50 years combined, our family has guided the construction of custom homes and complex residential projects throughout Southeast Michigan. What began as a commitment to craftsmanship has grown into a trusted firm known for steady leadership, thoughtful planning, and disciplined execution.

As a multi-generational company, continuity matters to us. We believe in doing things right the first time — with patience, intention, and attention to detail. Every home we build carries our name, and that responsibility shapes how we approach each decision, from structural framing to final finishes.

What We Believe

We believe beauty deserves to be done right—that intelligent building protects design integrity, that proportion matters as much in construction as it does in architecture, and that clarity prevents compromise. The invisible work of structural planning, thoughtful sequencing, and the details behind the walls is what allows a home to endure.

“When we build, let us think that we build forever.”

This philosophy guides every project we take on.

Our Team

Leino Pakala

Leino brings over 40 years of residential construction experience to Pakala Construction. He began his career as a carpenter in the mid-1980s, later establishing his own finish carpentry company before moving into site supervision and project management for custom home builds across the Greater Ann Arbor area.

Today, he leads projects in the field, drawing on decades of hands-on expertise and a disciplined approach to detail. Originally from Iowa, Leino came to Michigan to teach before transitioning fully into construction — a foundation that continues to shape his steady, mentorship-driven leadership.

He and his wife Sally are proud parents of seven and grandparents to eight (and counting).

Founder

Austin Pakala

Site Supervisor

Austin has been a Site Supervisor at Pakala Construction for six years, bringing a hands-on, detail-driven approach to every project. His path into construction began in 2020 after being laid off from his bartending job during the pandemic. What started as helping his dad with small projects quickly turned into a full-time career, as he discovered a genuine passion for building.

With a background in Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management, Austin brings both creativity and a strong work ethic to the field. He enjoys seeing projects come together from the ground up, with a particular interest in spaces like game rooms—areas designed for gathering, fun, and making memories.

Outside of work, Austin enjoys staying active outdoors, especially playing hockey on the backyard rink he builds each winter. He’s always working on projects at home and takes pride in staying hands-on, both on and off the job site.

Alexandra Anderson

Alexandra’s path into construction started early, visiting job sites with her dad and developing an appreciation for the work from a young age. In her mid-teens, she began doing administrative work for a local custom home builder, eventually growing into a project management role after graduating from Eastern Michigan University.

At Pakala, she helps ensure each project runs smoothly from planning through completion. She especially enjoys custom home builds, where she can see a client’s vision come to life from the very beginning.

Outside of work, Alexandra spends time with her husband and three kids, often with extended family and friends. She enjoys being outdoors, camping, and always has a good book nearby.

Co-Owner & Operations Director

Haddon Pakala

Project Coordinator

Haddon has been a Project Coordinator at Pakala Construction for the past two years, supporting projects from early planning through execution. He was first introduced to construction while working for a builder in Ann Arbor during college at Eastern Michigan University. After graduating with a degree in Computer Information Systems, he spent six years in the IT field before joining Pakala in 2024 to work alongside his family.

At Pakala, Haddon plays a key role in keeping projects organized and moving forward. He especially enjoys kitchen projects—drawn to their role as the heart of the home—and appreciates the framing stage, where progress is visible day by day.

Outside of work, Haddon enjoys cooking and sharing meals with his wife, Sabrina, traveling to visit family in Louisville, and spending quality time with his son, Heinrich.

Project Manager

Charles Pakala

Charles joined Pakala Construction as a Project Manager in 2023, bringing over a decade of experience in the construction industry. He began working as a laborer while in college and, after earning a degree in Mechanical Engineering, chose to stay in construction—drawn to the hands-on building process. After a period in property management, he realized how much he missed being on-site and returned to the field with Pakala.

At Pakala, Charles helps guide projects from planning through completion, with a particular interest in mechanical systems that support the comfort and performance of a home.

Outside of work, he enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife, Avery, and their son, James, and trying new restaurants—especially a great hole-in-the-wall Korean BBQ spot.

Build With Us

  • Custom Homes Built with Precision

    We manage the construction of high-end custom homes throughout the Greater Ann Arbor area, translating architectural vision into enduring structures.

    From complex framing and structural steel to refined finish carpentry, we approach every phase with discipline and clarity. Our role is to protect the integrity of the design while coordinating skilled trades to execute it faithfully.

    Whether you are early in the design phase or ready to build, we provide steady guidance from concept to completion.

  • Transforming Existing Homes with Care

    Thoughtful renovation requires both vision and restraint.

    We lead complex renovations and additions with careful planning, clear communication, and respect for the existing structure. Whether reimagining a primary suite, modernizing a kitchen, or expanding a home for a growing family, we approach renovation with the same level of precision as new construction.

    Because lasting homes evolve—they don’t just expand.

  • Clarity Before Construction Begins

    The success of a project is often determined long before the first wall is framed.

    During pre-construction, we collaborate with architects and designers to provide budgeting insight, structural guidance, and sequencing strategy. Early involvement allows us to anticipate complexity, align expectations, and protect both design intent and investment.

    For homeowners just beginning the journey, we can also connect you with trusted architectural and design partners.

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