Welcome to Ask Wirecutter, the place deputy editor Annemarie Conte helps you determine benefit from your stuff in actual life. In case you have a buying conundrum for our recommendation columnist, submit it utilizing this manner.
Expensive Wirecutter,
My children jokingly advised me they’re making an inventory of my stuff they need once I die. (And, sure, they’re already planning for my dying. Haha.) What are some gadgets which are heirloom high quality that I ought to spend money on for myself … and ultimately my children?
J.R.
Expensive J.R.,
I do know you stated this in jest, however I believe it’s wholesome on your children to speak about and plan on your dying, which, based mostly in your description, I perceive isn’t imminent. (Please be aware I stated “plan for” and never “plot.”)
Frankly, we’re seeing that youthful generations don’t actually have a lot sentimentality for household heirlooms like shiny cherrywood curio cupboards full of collectible collectible figurines. However possibly they’d love a well-insulated cooler, a Herman Miller Aeron chair, or a refillable leather-based planner to recollect you by.
Shopping for with longevity in thoughts is a superb transfer, particularly on this disposable-product-churn economic system. And the sorts of high-quality stuff you’re describing are referred to as “purchase it for all times” (BIFL).
There are some BIFL gadgets that can nonetheless be lovely and purposeful years past your lifetime, after which they’ll reside on for another person to understand—whether or not it’s your progeny, a good friend, or an over-the-moon property sale shopper. Listed here are a few of my and my colleagues’ favourite heirloom-quality gadgets.
