My Neighbor is copying every thing I do... HELP!!!!?

Question

They have built a very similar house next door to me with the same colour scheme, even the same bricks! The have replicated the exact same garden design layout and now planted the same plants in it that I have. They are currently building a decking and pergola, which I already have... guess what, the same flooring, same posts, same roofing. Today I absolutly lost it when the builder asked to come and measure my steps so they could have the same as mine. How on earth can I stop this...

Answer 1

Maybe get a really unique feature for your garden or house ,something from a salvage yard that would be hard to copy.Another idea is to keep a collection of different coloured and shaped pots and garden features [bird baths,statues,lighting,hanging baskets etc] These things can be changed daily or weekly for a different effect and just maybe this way you can always be one step ahead of your neighbors and you will also have the advantage of a little bit of different scenery every day.

Answer 2

Consider it flattery. They like the appearance of your house so much that they're spending a great deal of time and money to emulate it. Sure, it's annoying, and if it really bothers you, politely address them. Otherwise, move on.  

Answer 3

You can't stop your neighbors.  They may have a s***w loose, or they may just be really bad at decorating and have taken a cue from you.  

I agree, you should consider it flattery. If you bring it up, phrase it this way "Martha, (or what ever her name is) you might want to keep an eye on that contractor you have building your steps.  He didn't know how to do it at all!  He had to come over and measure MINE! Can you believe it?"  You shift the "looser" status onto the contractor, and if you're lucky "Martha" will get the idea.

Or, you can do something wacky, like put an old toilet in your front yard with plants in the tank and bowl.  Then you can laugh at them if they copy you.

Answer 4

Grow up and get over it it will work out

Answer 5

Who cares?  In most communities people wind up doing the same and it is heralded.  Why should your home be any different?  People like what they see being done and not everyone is so creative so doing the same is appreciated.  Imitation can be a complement.  Why are you so bothered?  In my community everyone is building the same patio structures. Even though they are using different color stones, they are pretty much the same and it seems to be the new thing. Don't see a problem here.  

Answer 6

Take it as a complement, means you have good taste. Start a home decor business.

Answer 7

Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. Or something like that. If it really bothers you, talk to them about it and how you feel.

Answer 8

Paint your door a bold color like RED and put a in a cheap but cool rock garden!!!  Just stay one step ahead and laugh at this.  It's much easier to laugh about it that be angry!!!

At least they don't let their dog out and watch it c**p in your yard then walk away!!   I'm 5 seconds away from throwing it all against their front door!!;)

Answer 9

maybe they just love your house, but after they finish their house, repaint your house (might be expensive but maybe its time for a change) and when the plants die get some new (different) ones. But you should just be flattered that they love your house so much :)

Answer 10

haha. that sucks.

tell them to back off.