Historic military building is transformed

Prospective homebuyers will soon be able to secure a unique property in a beautifully-restored landmark building at Taylor Wimpey’s Praecedo development in Colchester.

Brigadier House, a former officers’ mess at the old Colchester Garrison, is currently being sympathetically transformed into a stunning collection of 19 houses and apartments boasting original period features.

The building, which was originally built in 1904 and has stood empty since 2006, will retain its Edwardian frontage and the homes will benefit from amazing 9ft sash windows and 14ft high ceilings.

Danny Clark, Project Manager for Taylor Wimpey, says: “This is a particularly exciting project to be involved in and it has presented us with some interesting challenges. We’ve been bringing this 108-year-old building up to our exceptional 21st century standards since work started in February. But at the same time, we’ve been making sure that the distinctive character of the mess is retained.

“We’ve really got the balance between old and new spot on with this restoration. We are combining existing period features such as stone portico entrances, mosaic flooring, sash windows and high ceilings with energy-efficient measures and top-quality materials.

“The barracks are of significant local interest, so we are putting all of our efforts into the sensitive rejuvenation of the officers’ mess.”

Construction work is well underway and would-be buyers can register their interest now in one of these stunning new homes.

A selection of three and four-bedroom houses are currently available at Praecedo, priced from £159,995 and £197,500 respectively.

Praecedo – which means to surpass or excel in Latin, in a nod to Colchester’s famous Roman heritage – is a collection of high-quality properties in a well-connected yet peaceful location overlooking the cricket ground in Mersea Road, with the tranquil open space of Abbey Field beyond.

Commuters will appreciate good rail and road links to Chelmsford, Brentwood and London as well as to Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds, Cambridge and the Midlands. Colchester Town railway station is located just a short walk from home for regular services to London Liverpool Street.

Prospective purchasers can find out more about the new homes available to buy at Praecedo by visiting the Sales and Marketing Suite, located off Mersea Road, Colchester, CO2 7TB, and open Thursday to Monday from 10am to 5.30pm. Alternatively, visit taylorwimpey.co.uk.