Destination Recording Studios: Creative Retreats in Music Production

In an industry increasingly shaped by laptops, cloud storage, and AI-generated beats, one might assume that physical recording studios are relics of a bygone era. Yet, in 2025, the opposite is proving true. Around the world, a new wave of destination studios is attracting artists, producers, and creative teams who are willing to travel for the experience of making music in a space designed to inspire.

“Artists today have more freedom than ever to record anywhere,” says Eileen Richardson, CEO of DiaDan Holdings, which has invested in several entertainment projects, including the construction of Higher Elevation Studios in Nova Scotia. “That’s why they’re seeking out spaces that offer something beyond convenience. Artists want the atmosphere, the connection, and the ability to focus on their craft.”

For many years, professional recording studios focused on major industry centers such as Los Angeles, London, and New York. These cities still have a strong influence, but escalating production expenses and a growing global music culture are prompting artists to seek out more secluded and personal environments.

Destination studios take advantage of this by providing comprehensive services in areas removed from the distractions of urban living. They frequently merge top-tier equipment with distinctive settings, whether it be sweeping mountain vistas, coastal solitude, or architecturally impressive recording spaces crafted for acoustics and visual appeal.

Higher Elevation Studios, built with backing from DiaDan Holdings and its partners, exemplifies this model. Based in Nova Scotia, it offers a top-tier recording environment, accommodations and surrounding landscapes that encourage long, uninterrupted creative sessions.

“Music-making is about energy. When artists are surrounded by beauty and peace, they tap into something deeper. We wanted to create a space where the location itself becomes part of the music,” says Richardson.

Although streaming technology has made remote collaboration easier, the human element still matters. Many producers argue that shared, in-person creative sessions result in more authentic performances and stronger artistic bonds. Destination studios provide that while also creating an immersive environment where teams can live, work, and create together for days or weeks.

For the studios themselves, this model offers benefits beyond traditional hourly bookings. Multi-day or even month-long residencies create stable income streams, while the exclusivity of the experience allows studios to charge premium rates.

According to Statistics Canada, the sound recording industry is showing strong growth. In 2023, operating revenue for record production and distribution in Canada rose by 21.2% to $903.3 million. Sound recording studios specifically saw revenue climb by 10.2% to $169.0 million. Streaming comprised almost 80% of total sound recording sales, increasing by 25.8% to $517.2 million. Canada is currently the eighth-largest music market globally, generating total revenues of $660.3 million in 2024. Although digital platforms lead in distribution, there is still a strong demand for quality physical recording spaces.

The trend also appeals to brands and media companies, which rent destination studios for live-streamed performances, immersive fan experiences, and branded content production. This blending of music and visual storytelling creates additional income opportunities and keeps studios active throughout the year.

While many destination studios are located in rural or scenic settings, large urban stages are also adapting by offering unique, immersive experiences on-site. Evergreen Stage in Los Angeles, for example, remains a sought-after space for major recording sessions and film score productions.

“In the entertainment business, real estate is about what that space can do creatively. We have always looked for projects that bring out the best in the people using them,” says Richardson.

As digital tools become more sophisticated, it is easy to assume that future studios will be entirely virtual. Yet, as the rise of destination studios shows, the need for tangible spaces that inspire, challenge, and connect remains strong. In addition to that, the pure sound originating from an actual studio cannot be replicated by a computer. 

Studios such as Higher Elevation merge modern technology with a level of environmental immersion that cannot be duplicated by any home setup. For touring musicians, these retreats are creative refreshers between performances. For independent creators, they provide a unique opportunity to escape everyday distractions and concentrate entirely on creating art.

“The tools we use will keep evolving, but the need for human connection and inspiration will not fade. Destination studios meet that need in a way that is both practical and magical,” says Richardson.

If current trends and industry growth continue, more artists will travel for the opportunity to create in inspiring locations, and more investors will recognize the cultural and commercial value of spaces that bring music to life.