Elimination While Others Attempt to Add?

[dking]

I really like the idea of a minimalist living space; I like the open space, and the fact that I don't run into things quit as much. However, I live with a woman who can only think about buying furniture and big heavy cr*p I don't need or want.

Ideas?

[final_id]

Ah, the conundrum. The beloved one ... and his/her/its STUFF.

Good luck with it. I have no suggestions.

[webgal]

An accidental bonfire. Kidding. I'm trying to declutter. But it's hard to find the time. If anything starts to generate enough income, I'll take the time to do this with a vengeance.

[GriffCo]

fires can damage you too. Fire hurts

Try termites

[badhank]

try telling them what your idea of an layout should be, see what theirs is, using words for communication negotiate a living arrangement. Make sure an "agree on every new thing" clause is put in your agreement, with a "instant return" policy on all items breaking that agreement.

[Sven]

Is there a distinction you can make: Taste or "need"?

If there is a clash of taste an interior designer may prove valuable, they are trained in mixing styles.

But if you want to nonsume and your roommate/partner (?) wants to consume it may be less easy.

[webgal]

Wait a minute. Tell her she could make some money selling some of it on Craigslist or ebay. You can give away things on that site, free as well.

[final_id]

I'm actually considering creating an "EBay room." I will set up a laptop, a digital camera, and a desk. I will throw things in there. I will let them lie in boxes. If I take the time, I'll never let them leave until they're paid for by some sucker who outbid all the other suckers, and only then in a UPS box.

At the end of the year I'll invite my friends to come to an "EBay room" party. They can have anything (except the desk, camera, and laptop) in the room.

[EditorDude]

Well - how important is it to you? If it's only a few pieces of furniture, compromise - it may not make that much of a difference. On the other hand, if it is significant, and it is affecting your life, then I suppose it's time to have a serious chat with your partner - perhaps even educate him - bring him in to the club as it were. Otherwise, you could get your own place.

[dking]

Originally Posted by EditorDude

Well - how important is it to you? If it's only a few pieces of furniture, compromise - it may not make that much of a difference. On the other hand, if it is significant, and it is affecting your life, then I suppose it's time to have a serious chat with your partner - perhaps even educate him - bring him in to the club as it were. Otherwise, you could get your own place.

Him? Its been clearly stated that I'm a straight man living with a straight woman.. wtf?

I own the house in question, btw. I'm not going to "get my own place"; If it comes to that I would just kick her out of my house.

My issue is that I can come home and suddenly find something new in my way, and I'm not sure how to handle it since at that point I don't have the legal ability to take the item she bought and throw it out, being as its not my property. I refuse to buy stuff myself all the time, but that does not stop her.