Mass occurs in the bulk of objects, and form is the actual shape of the object. Both form and shape helps create balance in a room.  Therefore, the furniture, in its form and shape, must fit well in its surroundings (the architecture of a room). When you buy furniture you must ensure that it echoes the structure of the room.

 Understanding Form and Shape

Picture 3

The kitchens above have high ceilings; thus tall, straight, slender chairs and cabinets would fit perfect in these rooms. Their bulk helps make the kitchens look grand, as in the first picture; elegant, as in the second picture; and formal, as in the third picture.

Low ceiling rooms suit a more casual atmosphere as shown in picture 4 and 5. The furniture in such rooms should be short, squat, or curvy. You should note that symmetry is more common in taller rooms where formality is desired.

Pictures courtesy www.photobucket.com