Absolutely crazy idea

 So...we need to make our stained glass windows more energy efficient. We need to replace two side doors because they leak. We need to insulate the basement and the sanctuary. We want to channel water away from our foundations. And I want a greenhouse where I can enjoy winter sun without the wind and spring light without the bugs. What if we found one solution that fixed all of those problems?

What if we built a two-storey solarium on each side of the church? Instead of the pergola idea we had, what if it was solid glass from roof to ground, basically forming a three- or four-foot-wide greenhouse on each side?

It would insulate not just all the windows but the sides of the building. The sun would hit it directly because the church faces due north so the sides face east and west. The sun would heat the brick, which would retain the heat and slowly release it back. Water from the steep roof would channel off the glass roof of the solarium, away from the foundations. It would essentially create an airlock for the side doors. In winter the heat from the sunroom could come in through the vented stained glass windows. In summer, you could open the doors of the greenhouse to form a breezeway, and you could have those automatic greenhouse ceiling vents that open to let heat out. You could sit in it during bug season, and keep your lemon trees in it. And I think the modern look would tie nicely with the older building, making it really unique.

Other than the million-dollar price tag, I can't think of a down side!