In this episode of Leaning In, Trademark CEO Terry Montesi sits down with Steve Rouman, SVP of Real Estate at RH, to talk about his journey from the landlord side of the business to leading real estate strategy for one of retail’s most design-driven brands.
They dive into RH’s transformation into a luxury lifestyle brand, the future of retail site selection, post-COVID consumer behavior, and how physical retail and e-commerce can work together. Steve also shares advice for industry newcomers and why human connection still sits at the heart of retail.
🎧 Listen in for a forward-looking take on retail, design, and the evolving role of place.
Topics:
(00:00:00) - Intro
(00:01:12) - Steve’s background and career
(00:08:05) - RH's transformation and real estate strategy
(00:13:11) - Site selection and unique real estate moves
(00:18:02) - Surprises and lessons in retail site selection
(00:26:12) - Future growth and expansion plans
(00:30:07) - New store concepts and expansions
(00:32:40) - AI and the future of retail
(00:35:29) - E-commerce and physical retail synergy
(00:39:09) - Retailers excelling in brick and mortar
(00:44:07) - Future of retail real estate
(00:49:24) - Advice for aspiring retail real estate professionals
(00:53:13) -Terry’s proudest moments
(00:58:05) - Conclusion and final thoughts
Links:
Trademark Property
Terry on LinkedIn
RH
Steve on LinkedIn
