For those who have recently discovered the world of raising chickens and are looking to construct a DIY chicken coop without relying on pre-fabricated structures, building one from scratch may seem daunting at first. However, with some basic woodworking skills and a clear plan, this task is more manageable than you might think. In fact, many people can successfully build a chicken coop without prior experience, as long as they have access to the right resources and guidance.
One of the biggest online communities for chicken enthusiasts, BackyardChicken, boasts an impressive collection of over 3,000 free chicken coop plans submitted by its members. While this abundance of options might seem like a blessing, it’s crucial to note that not all of these designs are suitable for beginners.
After reviewing the available plans, I found that only about 10% of them can be realistically built without prior expertise.
The majority of these plans either require advanced skills or lack the necessary detail and clarity.
In response to this shortage of beginner-friendly plans, I’ve compiled a selection of 61 exceptional chicken coop designs that are both easy to build and budget-friendly. These plans are specifically tailored for those who want to construct their own coop without relying on pre-fabricated structures.
How to Build the Right Chicken Coop
When it comes to building a chicken coop, it’s crucial to consider the essential factors that impact your chickens’ happiness and health. A coop is more than just a shelter; it’s their home where they live out their daily lives. As with any human dwelling, the quality of the coop significantly affects the well-being of its inhabitants. To ensure you create an optimal environment for your feathered friends, let’s cover the key aspects to consider before diving into the free plans.
If you’re eager to jump straight to the first plan, simply click the link below:
Decide the size of your coop
When it comes to determining the ideal coop space for your chickens, a general guideline is to allocate at least 3-4 square feet per bird. This means that if you’re planning to house three chickens, for instance, you’ll need a coop with a minimum size of 12 square feet (calculated as 3 x 4 or 6 x 2). However, if your goal is to keep the flock entirely within the coop, you should aim for a space of at least 10 square feet per chicken.
Insufficient space can have detrimental effects on your birds’ well-being, causing stress, pecking among each other, and even health issues that may ultimately prove fatal. While it’s technically possible to provide less than 3 square feet per chicken, this setup is only viable if the birds are allowed to spend most of their time outdoors. For smaller breeds like bantams, a more modest allocation of 2 square feet per bird might be sufficient.
Decide the location
When selecting the perfect spot for your chicken coop, consider the following factors: natural sunlight and shade, wind direction, ease of access, smell, and noise. While sunshine is essential for your flock’s well-being, ensure that they don’t receive direct sunlight all day. A moderate breeze can be beneficial, but avoid areas prone to strong gusts of wind. Under a tree or a shaded spot often provides the ideal combination of natural light and shelter from harsh weather conditions.
Additionally, consider the ease of access for regular checks – ideally, the coop should be within a short walking distance or have a clear path for easy maintenance. It’s also crucial to keep the smell and noise levels in mind; avoid placing the coop too close to your home or neighbor’s property to maintain a peaceful environment. A pro tip is to delay committing to a location until you’ve monitored the area for at least one week, allowing you to identify any potential issues that may arise.
Plan the coop
When it comes to building a chicken coop, many people focus solely on the exterior structure. However, what’s happening inside and outside the coop is just as crucial for keeping your chickens alive and healthy. Here are some essential components to consider. Must-haves:First and foremost, you’ll need a nesting box where your hens can lay their eggs. Aim for at least one box per two hens, with dimensions of 12x12x12 inches and a height of around 10-20 inches above the ground.
Additionally, windows or proper ventilation are vital to prevent health issues in your flock. You’ll also need reliable feeder and waterer systems. Nice-to-haves:While not entirely necessary, having a perch area where your chickens can roost and relax is a great way to keep them happy. An outdoor run, separate from the shelter, provides an important outlet for exercise and mental stimulation.
Other niceties include a dust bath box, which allows your birds to maintain their natural cleaning habits, as well as poop boards beneath perching areas to reduce cleanup efforts. Finally, consider installing lighting in the coop, particularly during winter months, to boost egg production and overall chicken health. These are the basic essentials for building a functional and healthy chicken coop.
While there’s more to explore on this topic, I’ve tried to provide a solid foundation to get you started.
61 Free Chicken Coop Plans:
The capacity for chickens is an essential consideration when it comes to building a chicken coop. The ideal number of chickens that can be accommodated depends on several factors, including the size of the coop and the amount of space available per bird.
Here’s a rough guide to help you plan: one to four birds require minimal space and are relatively easy to accommodate, five to ten birds need slightly more room and pose an intermediate level of difficulty to build, while eleven to twenty birds or more demand significant space and can be challenging to house. Building a coop that can accommodate a larger flock (more than 20 birds) is the most demanding task of all, requiring careful planning and expertise.
Urban Chicken Coop
This compact raised chicken coop is an excellent option for those with limited outdoor space or smaller flocks. As the image suggests, it’s surprisingly simple to construct. One of its standout features is Lynda’s comprehensive infographic guide on how to build the coop, making the process even more accessible.
Natalie’s Chicken Coop Plan
This comprehensive DIY project stands out for its exceptional detailing, earning a top ranking in my assessment. Although it may not be the most straightforward to construct, Natalie has kindly provided every necessary material and accompanied her instructions with a helpful 3D visual from SketchUp. With the downloadable PDF file available on her blog, you’ll have no trouble bringing this coop to life – just be prepared for an intermediate-level build that will require some effort.
The Palace Chicken Coop
The ‘Palace’ chicken coop boasts not only a spacious enclosure but also a generous run, providing each bird with around 10 square feet of comfortable space to roam. The coop’s sturdy construction is immediately apparent from the image, giving the impression that it might be a professional-grade structure. Surprisingly, this impressive design can be replicated by anyone, regardless of their architectural experience.
Even Jaden and Scott, who are not professionals in the field, have successfully designed and built ‘The Palace’ without any issues.
The South City Coop
Imagine Rick’s surprise when he undertook his first major building project! The South City Coop is an ideal choice for those who want a compact yet functional home for their flock. Its unique design, with a longer side and narrower front, makes it perfect for small spaces. Additionally, the coop features numerous windows and ventilation options, eliminating concerns about lighting and air circulation.
With dimensions of 6 feet by 3 feet, this intermediate-level project can accommodate up to 5 chickens.
Free Chicken Coop Plan by BarnGeek
According to BarnGeek, the identical chicken coop is being offered for $2,000. However, they cleverly constructed it using leftover materials from a previous project at no cost. One of the most significant benefits of this design is its convenient accessibility features, allowing you to effortlessly collect eggs, feed, and water your chickens without any hassle. The specifications are as follows: dimensions are 6 feet by 4 feet, with an ideal capacity for 6 chickens.
Building this coop is considered easy, making it a great option for those new to chicken keeping or looking for a low-maintenance solution.
Trictle’s Chicken Coop
The rustic charm of the chicken house is undeniable. One of its most impressive features is its ability to provide natural insulation, eliminating the need for additional heaters during winter months. The elevated design also offers numerous benefits, including enhanced protection from predators, reduced risk of flooding, and a cooler environment during hot summer days. With dimensions measuring 4 feet by 4 feet, this coop is an ideal home for up to 4 happy chickens.
Building this structure is a straightforward task, requiring minimal expertise.
7 Free Plans by Backyard Farming
Discover a comprehensive range of chicken coop plans, carefully crafted by renowned universities. The University of Tennessee and North Dakota Agricultural College have generously shared seven meticulously designed structures, catering to different scales: small, medium, and large. These blueprints include three essential components: an automatic waterer, feeder, and nest boxes.
With precise dimensions ranging from 8×6 feet to 11×12 feet, these coops can accommodate 17 to 33 chickens comfortably. The difficulty level is rated as easy to intermediate, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Build your ideal coop today!
My6Chick’s Chicken Coop
This premium chicken coop comes equipped with a range of features that make it ideal for raising happy and healthy birds. The removable roosts provide ample space for your flock to rest, while the door sweep ensures a snug fit and keeps predators out. For added convenience, the coop includes electricity-powered heated water feeder, as well as built-in lights for easy access during nighttime checks.
Additionally, the IR Chick-cam provides real-time monitoring of your birds’ activities, giving you peace of mind knowing they’re safe and secure. The coop also boasts good ventilation to keep the air fresh and clean. What’s more, this versatile design can be easily attached to a run (though the plan for the run itself is not included in this package). With its easy construction process and spacious interior, this coop is perfect for accommodating up to 8 chickens.
Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or just starting out, this coop has everything you need to get started – and it’s surprisingly simple to build! The overall dimensions of the coop are an impressive 8 x 4 feet, making it roomy enough for your flock to roam freely.
Pallet Palace Chicken Coop
Pallets are a treasure trove for homesteaders, often free and infinitely versatile. With ease of access to pallets, building the Pallet Palace can be done at virtually no cost – aside from any desired finishing touches in the form of paint. While the coop’s dimensions are substantial, its size can be easily scaled up or down depending on the number of pallets available and the needs of your flock, accommodating anywhere from a few to 32 chickens.
The construction process itself is remarkably straightforward, making this project accessible to even the most novice DIY enthusiasts.
Easy Chicken Coop
The DIY chicken coop’s deceivingly simple design makes it a great starting point for beginners. According to MyOutdoorPlans, even those without prior building experience can construct this coop in just one day. To take your project to the next level, they also offer a comprehensive plan for incorporating a nesting box. The coop itself measures 6 feet by 4 feet, providing ample space for up to 6 chickens.
With its straightforward construction process and moderate capacity, this easy-to-build coop is perfect for those looking to start small.
Judy’s Free Pallet Chicken Coop
A free chicken coop made from pallets that’s worth considering – Judy’s DIY project, for instance, managed to save her a whopping $1,000 in lumber costs by repurposing these wooden crates. What sets her approach apart is the extra step of disassembling the pallets before utilizing them as building materials. The end result? A superior structure that’s well worth the added effort.
With dimensions of 7 feet by 7 feet and a maximum capacity for 12 chickens, this easy-to-build coop is perfect for small-scale farming or backyard chicken keeping.
BuildEazy Chicken Coop
BuildEazy is a comprehensive online platform that offers an extensive library of free woodworking plans, catering to individuals with varying skill levels and project ambitions. The website boasts hundreds of accessible designs, allowing users to select from a diverse range of options. While the majority of these plans are available at no cost, enthusiasts can opt for premium access by purchasing the printable files for a nominal fee of just $5.
One such exemplary plan is the chicken coop design, which provides an in-depth, step-by-step guide covering crucial aspects like material requirements, floor elevation, and roof installation. This detailed approach makes it an ideal resource for beginners who may be struggling to get started with their first project.
Wire Spools Chicken Coop
While this unique coop design may not be the most aesthetically pleasing, it offers several advantages. Not only is it free to build, but it also doesn’t require a lot of space, making it an ideal choice for those with limited room. The vertical design stands out from other plans in this article and can accommodate up to 2 chickens, specifically bantam breeds. However, if you want to raise larger breeds, you can easily modify the coop by widening it slightly.
It’s essential to note that chickens should not be confined to the coop for extended periods, allowing them to exercise and engage with their surroundings.
Chicken Coop Plans by Home Depot
Home Depot is an authority in home improvement, and their chicken coop plan is a testament to that expertise. In a detailed guide, they break down every material required to build the coop, providing a seamless shopping experience for customers (naturally, all materials can be purchased at one of their own stores). To further facilitate understanding, they have created two comprehensive video tutorials.
The dimensions of this project are 4 feet by 3 feet, making it an ideal space for up to three chickens. With its straightforward design and easy-to-follow instructions, even novice builders can successfully construct this coop.
Farmer Kitty’s Coop
Looking for a quick and easy DIY project? Look no further! This simple yet effective chicken coop is perfect for those who want to raise their own flock without breaking the bank. The owner of this coop, Farmer Kitty, has cleverly designed it to be built in just a few hours, making it an ideal solution for those with limited time or experience. With a capacity for 8 chickens and measuring 8 feet by 4 feet, this coop is perfect for small-scale chicken keeping. And the best part?
It’s incredibly easy to build, even for beginners. Whether you’re raising chickens for eggs, meat, or just for fun, this coop is a great starting point.
Shed Chicken Coop
Ana designed a chicken coop plan for his friend Whitney, who successfully built it in just 30 hours over 4 days with a team of three. This comprehensive guide outlines every tool and material required to bring the project to life, including precise measurements and accompanying 3D SketchUp images. With dimensions of 8 feet by 4 feet, this coop is ideal for housing up to 8 chickens. Given its ease of construction, even novice builders can take on this project.
If you’re ready to get started, follow along with Ana’s original instructions.
Permanent Hoop Coop
When designing a chicken coop with a curvy roofing system, there are several benefits to consider. One advantage is improved heat transmission. As the curved roof receives more direct sunlight than a flat roof, it can provide a warmer environment for your chickens during the winter months. Additionally, the rounded shape of the roof makes it significantly sturdier against strong winds. Furthermore, building a coop with a curved roof can be simpler and more efficient than traditional designs.
The reduced complexity means you’ll spend less time laying the foundation, installing the roof, and completing the project. With these benefits in mind, you can create an ideal space for 16 chickens to thrive, within a manageable 8×8 shelter footprint or a total area of 8×16 feet.
PVC Chicken Coop
PVC, a budget-friendly and long-lasting option, offers a convenient alternative to wood when it comes to building chicken coop structures. Without the need for cutting or nailing, assembling a PVC coop is remarkably straightforward. Upon downloading the comprehensive PDF plans from our site (comprising three distinct designs), you’ll quickly discover that constructing one of these coops is an effortless endeavor.
Harriet’s House
Karl Caden offers an extensive collection of over 100 chicken coop plans, each with its unique style and size. As a token of goodwill, he’s sharing one plan absolutely free for you to try. Don’t be fooled by the ‘free’ label; this design is genuinely exceptional. Give it a shot, and who knows? You might just find yourself intrigued by his other creations as well.
The specifics on this coop include dimensions of 12 feet in length by 3 feet in width, an ideal capacity for accommodating up to 9 chickens, and a moderate level of difficulty that’s perfect for those with intermediate building skills. Take the first step towards building your dream coop by exploring this plan further.
Kevin’s Chicken Tractor
A portable chicken coop, often referred to as a chicken tractor, offers the ultimate flexibility for backyard chicken keepers. By moving it around your yard, you can provide your flock with fresh grazing opportunities while also keeping your garden healthy and thriving. Two key benefits of building a portable coop over a permanent one are its ability to distribute natural fertilizer evenly across your yard and eliminate the need for constant cleaning due to excessive waste buildup.
The ideal dimensions for this project are 8 feet in length and 4 feet in width, allowing it to comfortably accommodate up to four chickens. With an ease of construction rating of easy, this project is perfect for beginners or those looking to add a new feature to their backyard.
The Kerr Center Chicken Tractor
The Kerr Center’s chicken tractor design offers an alternative approach, boasting a larger size and elevated shelter that rises above the ground. While its portable nature makes it ideal for easy relocation, it can also function as a permanent coop if desired.
Key specifications include:
* Shelter dimensions: 5 feet wide by 2.
5 feet deep
* Total structure dimensions: 10 feet wide by 5 feet long
* Suitable capacity: 3 chickens
* Level of difficulty: Easy to build, making it accessible for beginners
Robb’s Backyard Chicken Coop
A highly sought-after chicken coop plan can be found on Instructables, boasting an impressive 500+ favorites and a staggering 700,000 views. The design was reportedly inspired by rustic barns in Kansas, resulting in a charming and straightforward build that won’t break the bank – all for just $40.
Interestingly, Robb, the creator, has also shared valuable insights on chicken-keeping and coop maintenance on this page, making it well worth a read even if you’re not interested in building the coop itself. The plan’s dimensions are a generous 6×4 feet, accommodating up to 6 chickens with ease. Its ‘easy’ difficulty level makes it accessible to DIY enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Melissa’s DIY Chicken Coop
This DIY chicken coop may not have the most impressive design, but it’s truly impressive considering it was built almost entirely by Melissa, a construction novice who only received assistance from her husband for the roof. One of the standout features is the hinge on the roof, which allows easy access for cleaning and maintenance. The dimensions are compact at 3.5 x 3.5 feet, making it perfect for small backyard spaces.
With an ideal capacity for three chickens, this coop is a great option for anyone looking to start or expand their flock. And the best part? It’s considered an ‘Easy’ build, making it accessible to DIY enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Large Chicken Coop Design
This spacious coop measures 8 feet wide by 12 feet long, with a dedicated shelter area measuring 4 feet wide by 8 feet. This generous space allows for the comfortable housing of more than 10 heavy-layer hens without feeling cramped. In fact, I can imagine even chickens would be delighted to call this their forever home. With an ideal capacity for eight birds and a difficulty level rated as hard, building this coop is sure to challenge your DIY skills.
Build this coop and create the perfect haven for your feathered friends.
Simplistic Chicken Coop
For those looking to raise a small flock of chickens for a more affordable egg and meat supply, building an elaborate and costly coop might be overkill. The Simplistic Chicken Coop is designed with these individuals in mind. It’s a budget-friendly, time-efficient, and skill-light solution that still provides the necessary structure and protection for its occupants.
With dimensions of 8 x 2 feet, it can comfortably house up to 4 chickens, making it an ideal choice for those who want to keep their flocks small but satisfying.
The Feather Factory Chicken Coop
This impressive structure boasts a robust design, prioritizing security, proper ventilation, and efficiency. While it may be an investment upfront, its durability ensures you won’t need to construct another coop for years to come. The creator has meticulously optimized the plan, minimizing waste and maximizing your return on investment. With dimensions of 4×5 feet for the shelter and a total size of 10×5 feet, this coop is designed to comfortably accommodate up to 5 chickens.
Its challenging yet rewarding construction process makes it an excellent choice for those willing to put in the effort.
Small Chicken House
This spacious chicken house may be small in name, but its dimensions belie its actual size. Standing at an impressive 8 feet by 8 feet, it’s an ideal choice for those looking to keep their flock indoors. With ample space and ventilation, this coop can comfortably accommodate up to 16 chickens – as long as you’re mindful of overcrowding. While it’s not recommended to keep your hens cooped up (pun intended) all the time, this structure does provide a suitable option for indoor keeping.
If you’re considering building this coop, be prepared for an intermediate-level project that will require some skill and patience.
Downeast Thunder Farm Chicken Coop
While I wouldn’t necessarily build only one type, this design stands out to me as a great starting point. The architecture isn’t overly simplistic, yet it’s not excessively complex either. Furthermore, I find that a wide rectangular coop layout is more practical than a square one, particularly since the chickens will likely spend most of their time outdoors.
For this reason, if building a coop from scratch, I’d opt for dimensions like 8×4 feet for the main structure and expand to 8×12 feet for the surrounding run area. In terms of capacity, I believe it would comfortably accommodate up to 8 chickens. As for difficulty, I consider this project relatively easy to execute.
A-Frame Chicken Coop
Ana White’s portable chicken tractor design stands out for its impressive weight-space ratio, allowing your flock to thrive in a comfortable vertical space while being easy to lift and move. Measuring 8 feet by 5 feet, this coop provides ample room for up to three chickens. The included shelter on top offers a spacious 10 square foot area for your birds to enjoy.
With an ‘easy’ difficulty level and straightforward construction process, this project is perfect for beginners or those looking for a low-maintenance chicken-keeping solution.
Fox’s Log Cabin Chicken Coop
Log cabins have always held a certain charm for me. Perhaps it’s the rustic appeal they bring to movies and photographs, or maybe it’s the idea of living in one myself. Whatever the reason, log coops are often a great choice for those with a small flock. The natural gaps between logs can provide excellent ventilation, although you may need to insulate them during the winter months.
With dimensions of 6×6 feet and an ideal capacity of 9 chickens, this intermediate-level project is perfect for those looking to build a cozy coop for their feathered friends.
Minimal Cost Chicken Coop
Envision a flock of more than 10 heavy breed chickens requiring a spacious coop, which would typically cost over $1,000 to construct. Fortunately, it’s possible to build an attractive and functional large coop for just $600. This unique design is perfect for small-scale farming or backyard chicken enthusiasts.
Mammy’s 1895 Chicken House
The story behind this remarkable chicken house is a fascinating one. It begins with the grandparents of Joy Tarter, owner of US-based company Tarter Farm & Ranch. In 1985, they constructed a chicken house in Kentucky that would go on to become a legendary example of coop design. What made it so special? For starters, the durable structure was easy to maintain and clean, providing a comfortable environment for its feathered inhabitants.
So impressed were Joy’s grandparents with their creation that they decided to share their plans with others, enabling people to build similar coops on their own. With dimensions of 16 feet by 8 feet, this coop can accommodate up to 32 chickens, making it an ideal choice for small-scale farmers and backyard enthusiasts alike.
According to the plan’s difficulty level, building this coop is considered intermediate, perfect for those with some DIY experience but not quite ready for a more complex project.
DIY Small Backyard Chicken Coop
The compact chicken coop is designed for simplicity and ease of setup. To facilitate the process, a comprehensive step-by-step video series has been provided, featuring two-part tutorials that guide you through each stage of construction. According to the manufacturer’s specifications, the coop can accommodate up to four chickens; however, I would advise limiting the number to just two to ensure a comfortable and stress-free living environment for your birds.
The coop’s dimensions are 3×2 feet, with an ideal capacity for two hens. Building this coop is considered easy, making it an accessible option for beginners.
Sunrise Chicks Chicken Coop
This spacious chicken coop is designed to accommodate up to 30 heavy breeds with ease. What’s impressive is that the creator, a first-time builder, was able to construct this substantial structure without prior experience. While it may not boast flashy features, its simplicity will appeal to those who prioritize practicality over aesthetics. Key details include dimensions of 12 feet by 10 feet, an ideal capacity for 30 chickens, and an intermediate level of difficulty.
With these specifications in mind, you can embark on building this coop and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
M101 Chicken Coop
For chicken enthusiasts who truly adore these feathered friends, building a larger coop is the way to go. One such impressive structure stands out from the rest, boasting an elevated design that safeguards against predators and a spacious run for your flock’s enjoyment. Measuring 5 feet by 7 feet in its indoor area, this coop can comfortably accommodate up to 7 chickens. While it may require some expertise to construct, the end result is well worth the effort.
With its robust dimensions and predator-proof design, this coop is an ideal choice for those willing to put in the work.
The Free and Easy Chicken Coop
If you’re on a tight budget and lacking in carpentry skills, don’t let that stop you from providing a safe haven for your feathered friends. A functional chicken coop can be constructed using just three pallets, some basic tools, and a makeshift nesting box. With these humble materials, you’ll be able to accommodate up to four hens. The dimensions of this DIY project come in at 4 feet by 4 feet, making it an ideal solution for small backyards or limited spaces.
This easy-to-build coop is perfect for beginners, requiring minimal expertise and effort. So, don’t let your budget or lack of skills hold you back – get building and give your girls a cozy place to call home!
The Self-Sustain Chicken Coop
This innovative chicken coop design boasts ample space for housing a few backyard chickens, while its simplicity makes it an achievable DIY project. What truly sets it apart, however, is the inclusion of a living roof – a feature that allows you to cultivate food on top of the coop, providing a sustainable source of nutrition for your flock.
With dimensions of 4 feet by 3 feet and an ideal capacity for three chickens, this intermediate-level build is perfect for those looking to add a touch of self-sufficiency to their backyard.
The Stoop Coop
This innovative coop design is perfect for small spaces. When space is at a premium, homeowners may need to think outside the box (or coop) when it comes to providing a suitable enclosure for their feathered friends. In this particular case, the builder cleverly combined the chicken coop with a set of steps, effectively killing two birds with one stone. The resulting structure offers approximately 8 square feet of space, making it an ideal solution for up to two chickens.
With its easy construction process, even novice DIYers can bring this project to life.
The Mobile Stage Coach
This chicken tractor, designed for mobility and flexibility, enables your flock to roam freely across your property, feasting on a bounty of insects. For those who prefer not to take on the task of building their own coop, a precut option is available, significantly reducing the workload involved. With dimensions of 4 x 3 feet for the coop itself and a total footprint of 4 x 10 feet, this structure can comfortably accommodate up to three chickens.
The intermediate level of difficulty makes it an accessible project for those with some DIY experience. For those interested in bringing their vision to life, the ‘build this coop’ link provides a direct path to construction.
The Poop Coop
This charming coop boasts an unapologetically quirky design, resembling an outhouse in a way that’s equal parts amusing and endearing. As you draw closer, the attention to detail becomes apparent, with the chicken door cleverly disguised as a toilet seat lid – a stroke of genius that adds an extra layer of whimsy to this already captivating structure.
Specifications:
• Dimensions: 4 feet by 3 feet
• Ideal Capacity: 3 chickens
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate
The Picturesque Chicken Coop
While at first glance, this charming chicken coop may seem like a picturesque addition to your yard, don’t be fooled – it’s actually an excellent learning opportunity for those new to carpentry. The project comes with an extensive tutorial, replete with helpful images to guide you every step of the way.
Despite its appealing appearance, this coop boasts practical dimensions (4 feet by 6 feet) and can comfortably accommodate up to six chickens.
With an intermediate level of difficulty, it’s an ideal project for those looking to challenge themselves without feeling overwhelmed.
Build this coop today!
Garden Shed Chicken Coop Plans
Designed for a medium to large chicken flock, these plans cater to enthusiasts looking to raise more than just a handful of hens. The blueprints are conveniently available in PDF format, making it simple and quick to download them.
The Crib Coop
Don’t discard your old baby crib just yet. With some creative upcycling, you can transform it into a budget-friendly and practical chicken coop. Start by lining the interior with chicken wire, ensuring a sturdy barrier for your feathered friends. Next, add a roof to provide protection from the elements. Crucial considerations include installing openings for both the birds’ entry/exit and your own cleaning access. Voilà! Your repurposed crib has become a cozy abode for up to two chickens.
With dimensions of 2.5 feet by 4 feet, this coop is ideal for small-scale chicken keeping. The best part? This DIY project is surprisingly easy to execute.
The Trampoline Chicken Coop
I’ve witnessed numerous instances of people transforming items that have lost their original purpose into functional creations that amaze me. This phenomenon never fails to fascinate me. With this in mind, I’m excited to share a comprehensive tutorial on upcycling an old trampoline into a cozy coop and spacious run for your feathered friends.
The Small and Friendly DIY Chicken Coop
This comprehensive chicken coop design offers a self-contained solution for raising a small flock of backyard hens. The structure features a spacious roosting area, an attached run providing ample space for the birds to exercise and forage, as well as a dedicated nesting box for egg-laying. Furthermore, the coop includes easy-access steps for the hens to enter and exit the enclosure.
If you’re seeking a straightforward project that still meets the needs of your feathered friends, this coop design is an excellent choice.
Another Ana White Coop
Ana White is a woodworking genius, known for making complex projects seem effortlessly achievable for DIY enthusiasts like myself. Her designs are always meticulously detailed, providing everything you need to get started, from measurements to materials lists.
This particular chicken coop caught my eye because of its simplicity and ease of construction. With dimensions of 5 x 2.5 feet, it’s the perfect size for housing up to three chickens.
According to Ana White, building this coop is a breeze, requiring only basic skills and tools.
The Pallet Coop
This rustic yet charming chicken coop was crafted from an unexpected source – pallets! The end result is a sturdy structure that not only provides a cozy home for six chickens but also adds a touch of personality to its surroundings. Measuring 5 feet by 5 feet, the coop’s compact design makes it perfect for smaller backyards or farms.
Building this unique abode requires some intermediate-level DIY skills, making it an exciting project for those looking to take their crafting game to the next level.
Medium to Large Coop
When searching for a chicken coop plan that can accommodate a moderate-sized flock, you may find yourself struggling to find options that cater to your specific needs. Most plans are geared towards smaller coops for a few hens or larger ones for large-scale farming operations. However, if you’re looking to raise around 20 birds, finding the right coop can be a daunting task. That’s why these custom plans were designed with more ambitious backyard chicken keepers in mind.
With dimensions of 8×10 feet and an ideal capacity for 20 chickens, this intermediate-level project is perfect for those who want a larger but not overwhelming space to care for their feathered friends.
The Tongue and Groove Coop
This compact chicken coop is designed for a small flock of around four hens, making it an ideal choice for families seeking to keep a few birds for eggs. The tongue and groove cedar construction may result in a higher upfront cost, but the finished product’s attractive appearance makes it well worth the investment.
Dimensions: 4 feet by 5 feet.
Ideal Capacity: Five chickens can comfortably reside within this coop.
Difficulty Level: Intermediate building skills are required to construct this coop.
The Custom Wood Chicken Coop
This charming chicken coop exudes a sense of functionality and tidiness, but its true beauty lies in its potential to be transformed into a unique masterpiece. With a blank slate, the possibilities are endless – you can customize it to stand out as a vibrant addition or blend seamlessly into your surroundings, making it a true reflection of your personal style.
From Playhouse to Hen House
If you’re holding onto an old playhouse that’s seen better days, don’t let it become a permanent fixture on your property. Instead, breathe new life into it by transforming it into the perfect abode for your feathered friends. Not only will you be giving your hens a cozy home, but you’ll also be saving money and reducing waste.
With dimensions of 5 feet by 4 feet, this coop is designed to accommodate up to five chickens. And the best part?
It’s an easy DIY project that’s perfect for beginners. So why not give it a try and provide your girls with a happy home?
The Simple Coop That Works
To create a chicken coop, one approach is to repurpose an existing structure, like a small shed. A creative example of this is a project where a small shed was transformed into a cozy and functional coop. The result is a compact yet well-equipped space that meets the needs of your hens. Features include sturdy roosting bars for perching and comfortable nesting boxes for laying eggs. The exterior also boasts an inviting design, making it an attractive addition to any backyard.
The Rustic/Whimsical Coop
The raised coop in question is an attractive feature on the side of a house, its rustic design blending seamlessly into the surrounding environment. Unencumbered by a traditional run, the chickens are free to roam and forage as they please, with the option to add one if desired. The use of a tin roof adds a charming touch, creating a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of a country homestead.
With dimensions of 4×4 feet, this coop is well-suited to accommodate a small flock of four chickens, making it an accessible and easy DIY project for enthusiasts.
The Well Protected Coop
While this design may not provide explicit plans, its creative freedom can be just as inspiring for some builders. The key takeaway from this concept is that building a small, multi-step structure can serve as a foundation for constructing the actual coop. Once you’ve successfully built the smaller box, you can scale up and create a larger enclosure by surrounding it with chicken wire and securing it with reliable latches to prevent predators from gaining entry.
The Raised Wooden Pallet Coop
This rustic chicken coop, constructed from repurposed pallets, boasts an impressive cost-effectiveness. Its thoughtful design ensures it meets the basic needs of its occupants, making it an attractive option for those on a budget seeking a functional coop. If you’re looking to stretch your dollars without compromising on functionality, consider following this tutorial and building a similar structure.
The Palace Redone
While the building plan for the palace chicken coop is straightforward, what sets it apart is its charming and unique design. By incorporating thoughtful details, the creators managed to infuse the coop with a warm and inviting aesthetic that transcends your typical chicken house. If you’re looking to create a visually appealing and character-rich enclosure for your birds, this palace chicken coop serves as an excellent inspiration.
Chicken Condo
The chicken condo in question is an absolute delight. Rather than simply showcasing the finished product, the builders provide a step-by-step breakdown of how each component comes together. This transparency can only serve to alleviate any anxiety you may have about constructing the coop yourself. Moreover, this charming abode boasts not only its adorable exterior but also features a spacious run area and multiple nesting boxes, making it an ideal choice for those seeking both form and function.
Saltbox Coop
Unlike its counterpart, the chicken condo, this sturdy wooden structure exudes a rugged charm, boasting innovative features like egg collection capabilities without requiring human intervention. The coop’s elevated platform offers an added benefit: cultivating fresh herbs or crisp lettuce to nourish your feathered friends directly.
Chicken Coop with Planter
This compact coop boasts a similar design to its larger counterpart, with an added splash of color courtesy of its fresh coat of paint. While it may not be as spacious, this smaller coop still offers ample opportunity for cultivating fresh greens – such as herbs and lettuce – on its rooftop, perfect for adding a touch of homegrown flair to your daily meals.
The Small Modern Coop
This charming little coop is an attractive feature for any yard. Its compact design makes it perfect for small backyards, accommodating just a few hens. What’s more, the coop allows you to cultivate fresh produce right on top, making it an ideal choice for those with limited space seeking a modern and self-sufficient solution.
Steadfast’s Chicken Coop Condo
Consider giving new life to an old playhouse or swing set by transforming it into a chicken coop, just like Steadfast did with his daughter’s outgrown swing set. The indoor portion measures 4 feet by 4 feet, which can comfortably accommodate up to 4 chickens. However, the spacious run area may allow for housing up to 7 chickens. This project is classified as intermediate in terms of difficulty.
