Rebeccamom, there are so many people with the same dilemma, we should start a "show me your kitchen window" thread. I also have a finished kitchen with a naked window. While these are my backyard neighbors, I also live in New England and the window feels stark when the leaves come down. I just purchased Levolor cellular white blinds which they custom cut at the store and are really reasonable. It is still in the box and awaiting DH's next day off. I thought it would still give me the naked look, but could pull it down on those cold evenings that have already started. I saw some custom roman shades online at jcpenny, but I need to call to find out if I can get fabric samples.

I wouldn't go with a plain fabric but something such as what Jodie White posted on the right - something with some texture or as kelleg69 suggested, a geometric pattern that is a tone on tone. You also really need to think long and hard about how you feel about colour. If you do like colour you could try a yellow/grey pattern or an aqua/grey or cherry red/grey (ok that might be a little out there). Do you have some ideas as to what colours you will have as an accent in towels, mats, etc.

You could use a roman shade, mounted outside the window, so it can be fully closed over the window when necessary, but raised to open and close the window for light and air flow. What do you have on other windows in the room?

are the walls and ceiling the same biscuit color? Its some work but I'd pay painters to change all that .....probably before anything else. You have a basic white slab cabinet door / med to darker wood floor so a very light off white /just neutral or gray green undertone so you arent making a statement. the one fixture over the table could perhaps go over the island and getsomething else over the table.or start from scratch and get a pendant or two for the island and coordinating fixture for the table. lighti fixtures and lighter paint will do a lot.... is there a chance of ceiling recessed light plan...in the kitchen? if you tend to the lighting along w the paint project I think youll be pleased what that does....then the tile for the splash/ optional solar shade at the window....shown-lighter wall colors...not stark white...will allow whatever you want w tiles...look at the dining zone compared to your dining spot..same floor..same window size but yours is so much darker due to the medium paint you have.