The trend for eccentric properties is no better demonstrated than the so-called “Banana Mansion” in Berkshire. The high-tech property is formed of two back to back banana shaped levels, and has just gone on the market for a cool £10 million.

However, the imposing estate, which overlooks two Thames-side villages on a 23 acre plot, has not impressed locals. Some neighbours have called on the council to knock it down, calling it “the eyesore on the hill” and “an alien spacecraft”.

Darryl Boulton, the man behind the mega house, had originally intended to live in the property with his family. However, on completion of the project, he has now decided to sell up in order to free some funds and try his hand at overseas development.

Mr Boulton, a former actuary, originally bought the estate for £1.23 million. As is the case for many large scale land sales, he began by demolishing the original property, a converted farmhouse, which served as a recording studio for the likes of Led Zeppelin, and set about planting his own mark on the land.

In spite of the recession forcing several million to be slashed from the original asking price of £14 million, Harry Sheppard, of the National Sales Department for Strutt and Parker, said that there have been several interested parties, which would “hopefully come to fruition in the near future.”

In contrast to the slow recovery in the mainstream market, high end developments appear to be spiking much more sharply, reflecting the ability of the world’s wealthy to seemingly shrug off the recession.

The trendy mansion du jour is a far different beast from its famously draughty ancestor. New buyers want super-luxurious, convenient and eco-friendly home to relax in with their families.

Angus Harley, of Knight Frank, commented: “There will always be a market, whether quintessential English or modern custom design, for the traditional country home. People will continue to want to live in, and be seen living in, these mansions.”