Cleveland Arms Pub – Brought Back to Life by Force Builders
Some projects just stay with you — and this was one of them. The Cleveland Arms Pub in Birmingham had loads of character, but time hadn’t been kind to it. By the time we arrived, it was worn, tired, and ready for a serious refresh. Today, it’s once again buzzing with energy and looks every bit the welcoming local it used to be.
Right from the start, we knew what we wanted to achieve — restore the pub’s soul without erasing its story. The building had seen generations come and go, and you could feel that history in every brick. Our job was to keep that feeling alive while making the place work for modern life — warmer, brighter, and a bit more refined, but still honest and familiar.
Bringing Old Craft Back to Life
This wasn’t a simple renovation; it was a full-scale restoration. We carefully stripped back what was there, studied the old details, and rebuilt piece by piece. The façade was repaired and cleaned to keep its original look, while the inside got a complete rethink. New lighting, fresh finishes, and thoughtful joinery gave the place a new lease of life without taking away its old charm.
After more than two decades in construction, Force Builders knows that the hardest part of a project like this is finding balance — blending the old with the new so it feels natural, not forced. The Cleveland Arms is a perfect example of how craftsmanship and respect for history can go hand in hand.
Working Hand in Hand with the Client
From day one, this job was about teamwork. The owners of the Cleveland Arms had a clear idea of what they wanted: a pub that feels timeless and comfortable. We listened, offered suggestions, and made small changes along the way to make sure the end result matched their vision. That collaboration is what made the final space feel so right — it’s personal, authentic, and built to last.
More Than Just a Renovation
It’s funny how a place like this can remind you why you love what you do. Restoring the Cleveland Arms wasn’t just another job — it was about giving something back to the neighbourhood. This pub has been part of local life for decades, and seeing it alive again, filled with voices and light, feels genuinely rewarding. There’s still that same old charm, just refreshed and ready for the next chapter.
For our crew, this project really captured what Force Builders is all about — doing things properly, caring about the details, and putting real heart into the work. It wasn’t just about fixing walls or painting ceilings; it was about keeping a small piece of history alive. And we’re proud to say, we did exactly that.
