OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author’s opinion.
Chris Martin, frontman of Coldplay, is making waves once again—this time with his latest real estate investment. The 47-year-old musician was spotted arriving at his newly renovated, state-of-the-art $5 million studio in Malibu, just a stone’s throw from the multimillion-dollar estate he shares with actress Dakota Johnson.
The studio, which Martin transformed from a residential property, is located near the Cape Cod-style mansion the couple purchased in October 2021 for a whopping $14 million. The space is the latest addition to a growing portfolio of luxury properties for the British rockstar, who was seen in a casual outfit complete with a backpack as he made his way to his creative headquarters. His upbeat demeanor further hints at the excitement of working in a newly updated, high-end space dedicated to his craft.
The studio, now a hub of musical activity for the Grammy-winning artist, has raised eyebrows due to its lavish makeover. Martin’s decision to spend such an amount on the property has ignited conversations about the impact of his real estate ventures, especially given his outspoken commitment to sustainability. As a key figure in Coldplay’s eco-conscious efforts, the question arises whether such luxury construction aligns with his environmental values.
Martin, who has long championed sustainability in his career, believes that environmental responsibility makes business sense. In a 2023 interview with BBC Radio 4, he said, “What we’re trying to do is actually not advocate at all but just prove that it makes business sense because that’s where we feel you’ll really get people to change, like ‘Hey, you can make more money.’”
This ethos has clearly influenced Coldplay’s approach to touring. In 2019, the band announced they would pause their world tour until they found a way to reduce their carbon footprint. They later launched an eco-conscious tour, which successfully cut emissions by 50 percent compared to their 2016-2017 tour. Additionally, for every ticket sold, a tree was planted in a bid to offset the environmental impact.
Despite the lavish nature of his new studio, Martin’s commitment to sustainability remains a cornerstone of his philosophy, even if it means finding creative ways to reconcile his love of luxury with his environmental goals.
On the personal front, the couple’s relationship has been a subject of curiosity. Martin and Johnson, who first started dating in 2017, have kept their romance mostly private, despite rare public displays of affection. Last month, they were seen on a romantic stroll, putting to rest any rumors of a breakup. A source close to the couple confirmed in March 2024 that they had been engaged “for years” but had no plans to rush into marriage. “They both love their careers. They are balancing things the best they can,” the insider revealed.
While their relationship has had its ups and downs, including breaks in the past, their bond appears to be stronger than ever. Martin even referred to Dakota as one of his “best friends” in a recent Rolling Stone interview, highlighting the deep respect and affection between the two.
Their family dynamic is equally strong. Dakota has spoken fondly of Martin’s two children, Apple and Moses, who he shares with ex-wife Gwyneth Paltrow. In an interview last year, Dakota shared her love for the kids, saying, “I love those kids like my life depends on it.”
As Martin continues to balance his musical career, personal life, and commitment to sustainability, it’s clear that his latest venture—both in terms of his Malibu studio and his evolving relationship with Dakota—is just another chapter in a life well lived.