Alison is stuck within the footprint of Maria and Matt's galley kitchen, so rather than fight the space, she pumps up the creativity and changes up the layout. First, she shortens a large window and moves the sink underneath to maximize countertop and cabinet space. After the soffits are out, ceiling height light sage-colored cabinetry comes in to compliment whitewashed laminate flooring and marbled black, cream and white granite countertops. Next up, smudge-proof black appliances including a double oven, cooktop, counter-depth refrigerator and stylish hood. To keep up with the black accents, Alison installs a heavy-duty black granite sink, faucet and sleek cabinet hardware. On the DIY side, Alison and the homeowners construct a mudroom with a custom boot tray to give this family more space and a vertical succulent piece and herb garden to bring nature indoors.