The Arizona North Chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) recently celebrated its 50th anniversary with the prestigious Design Excellence Awards Gala, where one designer stood out in spectacular fashion: Anita Lang, acclaimed luxury interior designer and founder of IMI Design Studio.
In recognition of her decades-long impact on the design world, Lang was honored with the Gold Lifetime Achievement Award – but the accolades didn’t stop there. Anita also took home first-place awards in several categories, including Special Function Space, Aging in Place, and Outdoor Living Space.
“I was truly honored and humbled to receive this special recognition for my dedication to my craft. It was quite overwhelming to have a room of 350 of my peers and collaborators stand as I received the award; I was overwhelmed with gratitude to be part of such a creative-minded community,” Lang said.
Among Anita’s winning projects, one space captured the imagination of the judges: her outdoor living space redefines the backyard retreat. Designed for a Tel Aviv DJ turned entrepreneur, this oasis balances performance and peace, play and presence. The space was conceived as both a refuge and a stage – a place where one can meditate at sunrise or entertain under the stars.
What began as a disproportionately shaped pool house – described as an odd “hat” – was transformed into a modern structure using principles of asymmetrical balance. The roofline flows seamlessly into the rear wall, anchoring the structure into the terrain. A stucco exterior and Douglas fir slats wrap the space in organic texture. Black metal fascia and vertical louvers introduce graphic contrast, elevating the architecture to art.
Honed limestone flooring cools your step, grounding guests in the natural rhythm of the Sonoran Desert. The interior unfolds into a carefully curated setting that invites connection and sensory engagement.
Custom lounge seating is arranged to encourage lingering conversations. A built-in DJ station stands ready to set the tone for any gathering. Overhead, a Dedon swing gently moves beneath the open sky, blurring the line between relaxation and play. Lighting is another star of the show. Brass ceiling and wall details, laser-cut in sacred geometric patterns and softly backlit, cast celestial shadows across the space. These details were inspired by the client’s personal spiritual journey, adding layers of meaning and ambiance.
Every element of this outdoor sanctuary was chosen for its aesthetic value and its emotional resonance. The result is a space that honors individuality, nature’s rhythm, and the power of thoughtful design.
Lang’s work is a testament to how great design goes beyond visual appeal – it invites us to live more deeply, connect more meaningfully, and find beauty in every corner of our homes, both inside and out. After all, a well-designed outdoor space isn’t just about living beautifully. It’s about feeling at home in the world around you. Learn more at imidesignstudio.com.
