A building-integrated solar energy system, based on the traditional Chinese building (e.g., pagoda) buildings with roofing at intermediate levels (known as eaves) - was investigated with regard to, providing for heating and cooling demands. A number of building parameters, related to energy exchange - solar absorptivity of the exterior wall, level of glazing, etc. - were optimised to minimise demand, and the orientation and tilt of the panels were selected to provide maximum energy at the times of maximum demand. Each parameter was investigated for a range of locations, in order to identify trends, which could then be applied to other locations. In most cases, solar power was sufficient to meet the cooling demands. For a number of locations, solar power provided some, but not all, of the heating loads. (C) 2009 Published by Elsevier B.V.