Another source to look is jcp.com. I noticed they have 3 blackout drapes (one in regular home WT section and 2 in clearance) in the longer length at low prices--if the colors work for you (always the challenge). If you can't find the grommet style that might be easier to pull open/shut on a daily basis, you might consider ring clips since they slide easily. If the hem looks too challenging to alter on rod pocket styles, you can cut off the top and rehem that quite easily. IMHO they'll look best if you have them full length, rather than end at the window sill. It seems like that would really detract from the effect of the window. Even your inspiration pic, while really cute, seems to just miss the mark a bit on the curtains. They're ok I guess, but full-length would have been better--IMHO. You may have to get extra panels to give the fullness you want across the window when they're closed unless you go with custom widths. Good luck with your project! Here is a link that might be useful: Clearance jcp.com blackout curtains

Ok, if you want a Roman Shade I would just do one to cover the whole bank of windows. One for the 3 window and one for the 2 window. How tall are your ceilings? Many people will mount the Roman shades higher than the window casings and allow the bottom of the Roman shade to cover just a small portion of the window, allowing for more light. You could do a wooden blind underneath for privacy and light control. In this case the Roman shade does not have to be operational but stationary and the blinds underneath will be what you use for privacy and light control. Bamboo blinds under a Roman shade are also a nice option.

A top down/bottom up shade would allow you to let light in at the top but have the bottom covered for privacy.

I still stand with Jilly’s first example of cafe curtains that are placed about 3/4 of the way up the window. If they would be on rings you could very easily open them during the day and close them at night. I would want light whenever possible. Hopefully the neighbor cannot see in during the daytime.