The Colmore Gate tower is currently undergoing renovation work which started this summer.
The office and retail building was originally constructed in the early 1990s.
West Midlands Fire Service said six engines, three brigade response vehicles and a hydraulic aerial platform were needed to bring the blaze under control.
Fire in Birmingham, on Colmore Row. Tram lines stopped either side. Traffic backing up. Smoke still coming out the roof but not as bad. Can’t see through the glass how deep the fire goes. pic.twitter.com/Sgs7d3G70B
— Dan Squire (@dan5qu1r3) September 15, 2025