Empowering homeowners to create spaces that inspire
Destination Eichler is a boutique residential interior design firm dedicated to creating approachable mid-century modern spaces. Founded by Karen Nepacena, a renowned expert in mid-century modern design, our firm is built on the principles of merging beauty and practicality, solving unique design problems, and making interior design accessible to homeowners.
Our Story
Destination Eichler started as a design blog, where Karen and her husband John Shum chronicled their journey restoring a mid-century modern Eichler home in Northern California. The blog quickly gained national attention, and the couple began taking on clients who were drawn to their modern design aesthetic and focus on mid-century modern architecture. In 2016, Destination Eichler transitioned from an online blog to a full-service interior design firm, helping homeowners reimagine and transform their homes.
Our Team
Karen Nepacena, Principal Designer
Karen is known for her ability to merge beauty and practicality, solve unique design problems, and make interior design accessible to homeowners. She is a leading authority on mid-century modern design and has been featured in publications such as Domino, Dwell, HGTV Magazine, Apartment Therapy, and Atomic Ranch. Karen's passion for vintage pieces and DIY-design projects that involve the whole family sets her apart.
Aisha Nathanson, Associate Designer
Aisha is a stylist, designer, and creative powerhouse. With a degree in Graphic Design from Northeastern University, she has over 15 years of experience in design, graphic design, and product sourcing. Aisha's expertise in product curation and her knack for finding the perfect mid-century modern piece make her an integral part of the Destination Eichler team.
Olivia Price, Associate Designer
Olivia is a talented design intern turned Associate Designer. She supports the design process, from sketching to sourcing products and creating photo-realistic renderings. Olivia holds an Associate Degree in Interior Design from FIDM and a BFA in Interior Architecture from California State University, Sacramento.
John Shum, Co-Founder
John is the co-founder of Destination Eichler and is responsible for managing the website and online marketing. With a Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Engineering from Northeastern University in Boston, John brings a unique perspective to the design team.
Our Services
Destination Eichler offers a range of services, from one-room style transformations to interior design support for full-home restoration and renovation. Our team will work with you to create a solid design plan to help you achieve your goals. Our services include:
- Design Consultation
- Spatial Planning
- Renovation/Restoration
- Kitchen Design
- Bath Design
- 3D Modeling
- 2D Renderings/Drawings
- Furniture Selection
- Art and Accessory Curation
- Hardware and Fixture Selection
- Color and Paint Direction
- Interior/Exterior Design
What Our Clients Say
"Karen is a highly talented, sensitive designer able to work across multiple styles with a quick understanding of client needs and of how and what design communicates. Her work is always tasteful, elegant, and on point." - Carin C
"We knew we wanted to give our house a facelift so I reached out to her for design guidance. After sending some pictures of our place, Karen stopped by with samples and ideas to get our project going. It was so easy because her choices were right on." - Monica A, Concord, CA
Design and Renovation Services
Destination Eichler has provided exceptional design and renovation services to numerous clients, earning a 5-star rating across the board.
Professionalism and Creativity
The company's lead designer, Karen, has been praised for her professionalism, creativity, communication, and responsiveness throughout the project. Clients appreciate her ability to listen to their needs, stay within their budget, and bring a fresh perspective to the design process.
Unique and Personalized Designs
Karen's designs are described as unique, stylish, and reflective of the clients' personalities. She has a keen sense of style, blending mid-century and contemporary flair with a cost-conscious approach.
Personal and Accessible
Clients appreciate Karen's warm, down-to-earth, and accessible nature, making them feel comfortable and confident throughout the design process. Her ability to foster trust and collaboration has led to long-term relationships with clients.

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