Tradition updated: new Essex commuter homes near Saffron Walden reviving ancient building techniques

The ancient craft of pargeting — elaborate decorative rendering depicting rural scenes or patterns on a property’s façade — has been revived in rural Essex.

Pargeting is a speciality of the region, and can be seen best in the heritage market town of Saffron Walden, where numerous Elizabethan buildings feature the unique designs.

The town is a coveted commuter location between London and Cambridge, but too pricey for some, according to local developer Enterprise Property Group.

It has launched The Limes, a scheme of 35 Arts and Crafts-style houses with simply pargeted exteriors, in the nearby village of Radwinter.

Prices start at £475,000 for a three-bedroom house. Call 01799 523 656.