Possible to reformat Matrix columns?

Edit Subject

Is there a way to reformat the columns for a single Matrix entry on the Publish/Edit screen?

The situation: I have a field group with a set of six related fields that need to be repeatable as a group and associated with the parent field group. These six related fields will only ever be related to the parent field group. Structurally, it's an ideal candidate for Matrix. However, on the Publish screen each of the fields gets pretty crammed and awkward for entering content. Is there a secret sauce way to format the layout of a Matrix grouping?

I could set up the group as a separate channel and have the client relate them back as Playa relationships, but this would be a little extra awkward for them.

Any thoughts or suggestions if the Matrix fields are fixed to a single row?

Thank you!