What about a custom (elevated to waist height) planter that would be exactly the right size and some real plants? A little herb garden indoors? Planter made with wood stained approximate color of your cabinets. Open design at the bottom (if you understand what I mean)….

Bay windows can be such a challenge. I don't think your bay window space is large enough for actual furniture--unless you want to try a larger bench… To me, a bench is awkward… Just filling in space, but not meaningfully...

Unfortunately, your bay window space is also too big to just leave empty… It needs something...

If you had big dogs, you could use that space as a feeding location with special doggie bowls on a floor mat….

Anyway, I think a custom planter of some kind is my best idea…. Maybe, someone else will come up with something better...

Your rooms are very attractive. Well done.

I'm sure you will figure something out that will work right for you and your house.

Happy Decorating.

I agree you have a hard space to fill, however it needs something. I have attached a few ideas. Good luck:)

A kitchen desk or a table for a flower vase.

I agree with reggiesmall, that would look so nice and cozy! Here are a few ideas for you:

http://deciture.com/shop/furniture/world-market/essex-chair/

http://deciture.com/shop/furniture/world-market/suzani-lorna-chair/ (more colorful)

http://deciture.com/shop/furniture/world-market/glasgow-ikat-clifton-chair/

http://deciture.com/shop/furniture/world-market/yellow-floral-charlotte-chair/ (love this one)

http://deciture.com/shop/furniture/world-market/round-ariana-metal-accent-table/

http://deciture.com/shop/furniture/world-market/metal-tristan-pedestal-table/
Hope this helps!

What about a window seat?

Perfect spot for a window bench

Click the link below for more ideazz:
https://www.houzz.com/magazine/the-best-uses-for-a-bay-window-stsetivw-vs~24817375

I agree its a perfect spot for a window bench!

Place a chest with drawers in the space - use as extra storage and the top as display space for lamp, plant, photos, etc. A lamp on in the evening would provide nice ambient lighting

What about a high top bistros table and chairs?

A comfy chair & table, perfect for a cup of coffee, etc.

Can you fit the extra dining room chairs in there?

I am amazed by this community! So many great ideas to consider. I went from completely stuck to plenty of options. Thank you all so much! I tried the suggestion of moving chairs and pulled in a small table from another room to see how that looks. I'm still trying to decide between this, an upholstered chair(s), a small desk, a bistro table, a window seat...

You have a beautiful space! I vote window seat! Make the bottom open storage with books, recipe books, etc...

A built in window seat won't work since your windows go almost to the floor. But the other options would depending on your biggest need; desk, sitting space, decorative accents....

I say keep it a breakfast nook. It's always nice to sit by a window. 2 smaller chairs and a table.

Window treatments will add a lot interest to the bay window. A small writing desk with a chair might work in that space.

Looks like you need the light the bay windows let into the room, so I wouldn't build a traditional window seat for this bay.You already have stools at the counter. Doesn't look like you need more storage. Only new idea I can think of is if you could use a desk or plant shelf, build it from plexiglass or heavy glass to let light shine through it. Supports would be between the windows and on the right and left where there is a small amount of wall surface. Recessed, downward lighting in the ceiling would make this area a focal point at night and provide light for a plexi shelf-desk surface. I tend to like cloth Roman shades in bays.