Views from the Shore
By Brian Cahill
I pass by Platt’s Beach House Furnishings every day on my way to work at Shore Medical Center. Curiosity got the better of me one afternoon, so I decided to step inside. The best way to describe the atmosphere is that as soon as you walk in, you feel like you’re on vacation. I was greeted warmly by a sales associate who introduced me to Thomas Platt, who was more than happy to share the story of his family’s business.
Platt’s has been a cornerstone of the Somers Point community since 1948, establishing a legacy of quality and service that has stood the test of time. As a third-generation owner, Thomas Platt carries a profound sense of pride and responsibility. “I wanted to continue the great legacy started by my grandfather,” he told me. “I am proud of our family name and what it represents – high quality home furnishings and service that’s second to none. Our name is on our trucks, and we take great pride in everything we do.” This deep-rooted passion is evident in every corner of the 20,000-square-foot showroom, where customers can truly engage with the furniture – feeling the fabrics, admiring the craftsmanship, and imagining how each piece might fit into their own homes.
Thomas, and store co-owners Jeanette Mueller and his sister Cheryl Platt, are passionate about the idea that the furniture store experience is something that simply can’t be matched online. “Furniture isn’t just about function,” he explained. “It’s about creating memories.” In an age where virtual shopping has become the norm, Platt’s stands out by offering an immersive experience. Here, customers can feel the difference that quality makes, appreciating the nuances of texture and color that are often lost on a computer screen.
Platt’s Beach House Furnishings is a true embodiment of coastal living. The store’s inventory reflects the aesthetics and needs of beachside homes. Their selection includes furniture that is perfect for creating a serene, beach-inspired ambiance, making any shore home feel like a cozy, elegant retreat.
Platt’s also provides a complimentary interior design service. Their team visits your home to take precise measurements and create a scaled drawing of your space. They guide you through every decision-making step, recommending pieces that are both stylish and durable to withstand the coastal environment.
Quality is at the heart of everything Platt’s does. Their commitment to excellence is reflected not only in the products they offer but also in the exceptional service they provide. Platt’s has a dedicated delivery team skilled in navigating the unique challenges of shore homes. Beach houses, with their lifted structures, narrow hallways, and multiple staircases, can present significant obstacles when it comes to delivering furniture. Their expertise ensures that your new furniture arrives safely and in perfect condition, no matter the challenges posed by your home’s layout. “Many beach homes have beautiful decks with high railings, and furniture has to be hoisted over because there are no other options. Most delivery teams shy away from jobs like that; we embrace it.”
Another aspect of the business that truly sets Platt’s apart is the quality of their sales team. Thomas is a firm believer in the distinction between a salesperson and an order taker. He believes that a good salesperson is not just there to take orders but to solve problems and think long-term. “The best salespeople listen,” he says. They engage with customers to understand their needs and desires, often uncovering things the customers themselves hadn’t considered. This depth of understanding and the ability to match needs with the perfect product is what sets Platt’s apart. “In today’s world, order takers are being replaced by AI. A good salesperson, however, is irreplaceable.”
Reflecting on my visit to Platt’s, I am reminded of the similarities between their commitment to the community and that of Shore Medical Center. Both institutions have deep roots in Somers Point and are dedicated to providing exceptional service and care. Just as Shore strives to meet the health needs of our community with expertise and compassion, Platt’s Beach House Furnishings enhances the homes and lives of its customers with quality and dedication.
Thomas’s dedication to continuing his family’s legacy shines through in every aspect of the business. From the quality of the products to the exceptional delivery service and the skilled sales team, Platt’s Beach House Furnishings is more than just a store; it’s a part of the community, helping to create spaces where memories are made.
To learn more about Platt’s Beach House Furnishings, visit plattshomefurnishings.com.
Brian Cahill is the Director of Marketing for Shore Medical Center and Shore Physicians Group. He is also on the Board of the Somers Point Business Association and is an Adjunct Professor in the School of Business at Stockton University
