I use mostly SS machines. Mostly old black cast iron ones. '
But', I wouldn't be without a ZZ machine. They are very useful tools. Especially if they also do decorative stitches.
I do understand how you feel about running out of room. I'm that way now. Machines everywhere, some stacked on top of others.
We rotate them as we fix, test, use them. Getting to the point we are making sure they work so we can put them C.L. Like you said, somethings gotta give.
How many do we have set up to use? A half dozen maybe. The rest can be grabbed and set up in a few minutes.
As for your husband, I do understand how he feels. My shooting area is now a sewing machine repair area. Even my gun tools and supplies have been drafted to work on sewing machines. Oh well.
Joe