You don't like the idea of a crate? Do you like the idea of your things chewed up and ruined or something that your dog has chewed and swallowed killing him???
He's probably getting his big molar?...or he's bored? or needs more exercise? Lonely? Could be many reasons for his chewing.
Without you being there to supervise and correct him while chewing, he does not understand what he can't chew.
I would say you do what is best for your dog, get him a large crate and start slowly getting him used to it. Feed him in the crate and give him treats in the crate and leave him there for short times in the beginning...and add time in the crate slowly. Many dogs do better with seperation anxiety because they are crated...they feel safe.
You may not need the crate for too long...could be 6 month? or a year?, then you can slowly let him start spending more time out of the crate when you leave home.
Gina