55+ Homemade Chicken Coop

In recent years, the trend of keeping backyard chickens has grown significantly, leading many to consider the importance of a well-designed homemade chicken coop. A thoughtfully designed coop not only provides a safe and comfortable space for your chickens but also enhances the overall aesthetic of your backyard.

The right design can reflect your personality and lifestyle, making your garden more inviting and functional.

This article presents a collection of 20 unique chicken coop designs, each crafted to inspire creativity and innovation in your backyard. From rustic to modern, these concepts showcase a variety of materials, colors, and layouts, ensuring there’s something for every aspiring chicken keeper.

Let’s dive into these wonderful design ideas that cater to both the practical needs of chickens and the aesthetic desires of their owners.

1. Reclaimed Wood Chicken Coop

This homemade chicken coop is a beautiful blend of sustainability and style, made from reclaimed wood and wire mesh. Nestled in a sunny corner of a suburban backyard, the coop features a small nesting box and a hinged roof for easy access, allowing for optimal care of the hens inside.

The Buff Orpington hens, with their realistic feather detailing, can be seen pecking at the straw-covered ground, creating a picturesque scene that encapsulates the essence of backyard farming.

The use of reclaimed wood gives this coop a rustic charm, while the wire mesh provides safety and ventilation. Soft, natural light filters through the coop, enhancing the warm tones of the wood and creating an inviting atmosphere.

This design not only prioritizes the comfort of the chickens but also adds a unique touch to the garden.

• Incorporate natural materials for an eco-friendly design.
• Ensure proper ventilation with wire mesh for airflow.
• Add greenery around the coop for a cohesive look.
• Utilize a hinged roof for easy cleaning and access.
• Consider the orientation of the coop for sunlight exposure.

Pro Design Tip: Use non-toxic wood finishes to ensure the safety of your chickens and the environment.

Budget Consideration: Using reclaimed materials can significantly reduce costs; however, ensure that the wood is free from harmful chemicals.

2. Compact Pallet Chicken Coop

This compact chicken coop, crafted from pallets, showcases the perfect solution for urban backyard spaces. Nestled under the shade of a large oak tree, the coop exudes a casual, lived-in feel, with a couple of Barred Plymouth Rock hens seen dust bathing in a sandy area next to it.

The design is simple yet functional, making it an ideal choice for those new to chicken keeping or with limited space.

The rustic appearance of the pallet wood adds a charming aesthetic, while the shaded location keeps the hens cool during hot summer days. The coop’s compact size allows for easy maintenance and management, ensuring that even beginners can enjoy the experience of raising chickens without feeling overwhelmed.

• Utilize pallets for a budget-friendly and rustic design.
• Position the coop in a shaded area to protect hens from heat.
• Incorporate a dust bathing area to promote chicken health.
• Use a simple door mechanism for easy access and maintenance.
• Consider adding decorative elements for personalization.

Pro Design Tip: Make sure to sand down the pallet wood to prevent splinters and ensure a safe environment for your hens.

Budget Consideration: Pallets are often free or inexpensive, making this design very affordable.

3. Practical Slanted Roof Chicken Coop

This practical homemade chicken coop, built with natural wood and a slanted roof for rain runoff, is perfect for rural homesteads. With Rhode Island Red hens foraging in a grassy area outside, this design is functional yet visually appealing.

The coop’s slanted roof not only serves a practical purpose but also adds character to the overall structure.

The use of natural wood enhances the rustic charm, while the grassy area provides a natural environment for the hens to explore. The small door allows for easy access, making it convenient for feeding and cleaning.

This design is a great example of how form and function can come together harmoniously in a backyard chicken coop.

• Incorporate a slanted roof for effective rain runoff.
• Choose natural wood for an organic feel and durability.
• Provide a grassy area for hens to forage and roam.
• Add a small door for easy access and maintenance.
• Consider the coop’s positioning for optimal sunlight exposure.

Pro Design Tip: Use weather-resistant wood treatments to prolong the life of your coop.

Budget Consideration: Building a coop with natural materials may have a higher initial cost, but the longevity and durability can save money in the long run.

4. Cozy Pastel Chicken Coop

This cozy homemade chicken coop is painted in soft pastel colors, making it a delightful addition to any suburban yard. With a small vegetable garden nearby, the coop features a fenced run where a group of hens can forage freely.

The gentle color palette and charming design create a serene and inviting atmosphere in your backyard.

The pastel colors not only add visual interest but also reflect a whimsical aesthetic that can complement a variety of garden styles. The fenced run ensures that the hens are safe while providing them with ample space to explore and play.

This coop is perfect for those who appreciate both functionality and beauty in their outdoor spaces.

• Choose pastel colors for a cheerful and inviting look.
• Incorporate a vegetable garden to enhance the garden’s functionality.
• Ensure the run is spacious enough for the hens to move freely.
• Consider decorative elements like flower boxes for added charm.
• Place the coop near natural sunlight for warmth and light.

Pro Design Tip: Use non-toxic paint to keep your hens safe while enhancing the coop’s appearance.

Budget Consideration: Painting the coop can be a cost-effective way to enhance its aesthetic without a complete rebuild.

5. Elevated Urban Chicken Coop

This elevated chicken coop on stilts is an innovative solution for small urban backyards, surrounded by potted herbs and flowers. With a few hens, including a Speckled Sussex, peeking out from the coop’s open door, this design maximizes vertical space while providing a cozy home for the chickens.

The elevated structure allows for easy access underneath, making it easier to maintain the yard.

The use of stilts not only adds an interesting architectural element but also helps protect the hens from ground predators. The surrounding potted herbs and flowers enhance the aesthetic appeal and provide a vibrant, green environment.

This coop design is ideal for city dwellers looking to incorporate chickens into their urban lifestyle.

• Design an elevated coop to maximize space and protect against predators.
• Surround the coop with potted plants for added greenery.
• Ensure easy access underneath for maintenance and gardening.
• Consider using lightweight materials for easy construction.
• Incorporate a ramp for easy access for the hens.

Pro Design Tip: Use treated wood for the stilts to ensure durability against moisture and pests.

Budget Consideration: Elevated designs may require a bit more investment initially, but they can save on future repairs and maintenance.

6. Charming Recycled Material Chicken Coop

This charming chicken coop, crafted from recycled materials, is set in a quaint rural backyard and features a green tin roof and a small porch area for the hens to relax. The coop’s rustic charm is accentuated by the use of reclaimed materials, making it not only eco-friendly but also visually appealing.

The green tin roof adds a pop of color while offering durability against the elements. The small porch area encourages the hens to enjoy their surroundings and provides a comfortable space for them to nest.

This design exemplifies how creativity can transform recycled materials into a functional and attractive chicken coop.

• Utilize recycled materials for a sustainable design.
• Add a porch area for the hens to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
• Incorporate a colorful roof for visual interest.
• Ensure proper ventilation with wire mesh or windows.
• Add decorative elements that reflect your personality.

Pro Design Tip: Check local regulations regarding the use of recycled materials to ensure compliance.

Budget Consideration: Using recycled materials can significantly reduce costs while contributing to an eco-friendly lifestyle.

7. Well-Constructed Suburban Chicken Coop

This well-constructed homemade chicken coop is designed for a small suburban plot, featuring nesting boxes and a chicken run filled with grass and dirt. With hens scratching at the ground, this coop provides a practical and charming solution for any backyard.

The design prioritizes both the comfort of the hens and the aesthetics of the garden.

The nesting boxes offer a safe and comfortable area for the hens to lay eggs, while the grassy run allows them to engage in natural behaviors. The overall construction is sturdy, ensuring the safety and security of the chickens.

This design is perfect for those who want a reliable and attractive coop that seamlessly blends into their backyard.

• Incorporate nesting boxes for egg-laying comfort.
• Choose a sturdy design to ensure safety and longevity.
• Provide a grassy run for natural behaviors.
• Consider adding a water source for the hens’ convenience.
• Position the coop to maximize sunlight exposure.

Pro Design Tip: Use weatherproof materials to ensure durability against the elements.

Budget Consideration: Investing in quality materials upfront can save on repairs and maintenance in the future.

8. Rustic Wooden Chicken Coop

This rustic homemade chicken coop is situated next to a flourishing vegetable garden in a backyard. Made of weathered wood, the coop features a small window and a ramp leading to the run where a couple of Leghorn hens are exploring.

This design emphasizes the connection between gardening and chicken keeping, creating a harmonious backyard ecosystem.

The weathered wood gives the coop a timeless appeal, while the small window allows for natural light and ventilation. The ramp provides easy access for the hens, ensuring they can move freely between the coop and run.

This design not only serves the practical needs of chickens but also enhances the overall beauty of the garden.

• Choose weathered wood for a rustic, charming look.
• Add a window for light and ventilation.
• Incorporate a ramp for easy access to the run.
• Position near a vegetable garden for a cohesive look.
• Consider decorative features to enhance the aesthetic.

Pro Design Tip: Use natural stains and finishes to maintain the rustic appearance while protecting the wood.

Budget Consideration: Weathered wood can often be sourced at a low cost, making this design budget-friendly.

9. Functional Sloped Roof Chicken Coop

This practical homemade chicken coop features a sloped roof and is placed under a large maple tree in a suburban yard. With a trio of hens, including a Black Australorp, pecking at feed scattered on the ground, this design is both functional and visually appealing.

The sloped roof efficiently directs rainwater away from the coop, preventing water damage and leaks.

The shaded location provided by the maple tree helps keep the hens cool during hot weather, while the design allows for easy access to the coop for feeding and cleaning. This setup combines practicality with a pleasing aesthetic, making it an excellent choice for any chicken keeper.

• Incorporate a sloped roof for effective rain runoff.
• Position the coop under shade for temperature control.
• Ensure easy access for feeding and cleaning.
• Add a feeding area that is separate from the henhouse.
• Consider using durable materials for longevity.

Pro Design Tip: Use a gutter system to collect rainwater for your garden.

Budget Consideration: The sloped roof design can enhance durability, potentially saving on future repairs.

10. Simple Plywood Chicken Coop

This simple homemade chicken coop, built from plywood, features a small run with a dirt floor. With a few hens enjoying the sun in a suburban backyard filled with blooming flowers, this design offers a straightforward and effective solution for chicken keeping.

The use of plywood allows for easy construction and customization.

The dirt floor provides a natural environment for the hens, allowing them to dig and forage as they would in the wild. The coop’s design ensures that the chickens are safe and comfortable while remaining easy to maintain.

This simple yet effective approach is perfect for beginner chicken keepers or those looking for a low-maintenance solution.

• Utilize plywood for a cost-effective and easy build.
• Incorporate a dirt floor for natural hen behavior.
• Add windows for light and ventilation.
• Ensure the design allows for easy cleaning.
• Consider decorative elements to enhance the look.

Pro Design Tip: Build the coop modularly for easy transport and reconfiguration.

Budget Consideration: Plywood is often more affordable than other materials, making this an economical choice.

11. Old Barn Wood Chicken Coop

This homemade chicken coop, crafted from old barn wood, is located in a rural backyard surrounded by fields. With hens nesting inside and a hinged roof for access, this design is both practical and charming.

The old barn wood adds character and a sense of history to the coop, making it a delightful focal point in the landscape.

The hinged roof provides easy access for cleaning and maintenance, while the coop’s construction ensures the safety and comfort of the hens. This design beautifully combines functionality with rustic aesthetics, perfect for those looking to create a cozy home for their chickens.

• Utilize old barn wood for an authentic rustic look.
• Incorporate a hinged roof for easy access.
• Add nesting boxes for comfortable egg-laying.
• Ensure the design is sturdy and weather-resistant.
• Consider decorative elements that reflect the rural setting.

Pro Design Tip: Source barn wood from local farms for a unique and sustainable option.

Budget Consideration: Old barn wood can often be found at a low cost, providing an economical building material.

12. DIY Decorative Chicken Coop

This charming chicken coop in a small urban garden features decorative elements like painted flowers on the walls. The run is filled with straw, and a few hens are foraging, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere.

The decorative details add a personal touch, making this coop feel more like a part of the garden than just a functional structure.

The painted flowers bring a sense of whimsy and joy, elevating the coop’s aesthetic appeal. The straw-filled run provides a comfortable and engaging environment for the hens.

This design exemplifies the DIY spirit of backyard homesteading, showcasing how creativity can transform a simple coop into a work of art.

• Incorporate decorative elements for a personalized touch.
• Use straw in the run for comfort and safety.
• Ensure the coop is easy to access for cleaning and maintenance.
• Consider using bright colors to enhance visibility and appeal.
• Position the coop to maximize sunlight exposure.

Pro Design Tip: Use weather-resistant paint to maintain the decorative elements over time.

Budget Consideration: Adding decorative elements can be done affordably with creativity and repurposed materials.

13. Wire Mesh Chicken Coop

This functional homemade chicken coop features a wire mesh run, positioned at the edge of a suburban yard. A group of hens, including a white Silkie, are seen interacting with their environment.

The wire mesh ensures safety while allowing for ample ventilation and visibility, creating a welcoming environment for the chickens.

The run allows the hens to explore while keeping them safe from predators. This design is practical and straightforward, perfect for those who prioritize functionality without sacrificing aesthetic appeal.

The combination of sturdy materials and thoughtful design makes this coop a reliable choice for any chicken keeper.

• Incorporate wire mesh for safety and ventilation.
• Ensure the run provides enough space for the chickens to move freely.
• Choose durable materials for longevity.
• Consider adding shaded areas within the run for comfort.
• Position the coop to maximize sunlight exposure.

Pro Design Tip: Regularly check the wire mesh for wear and tear to maintain safety.

Budget Consideration: Wire mesh can often be purchased in bulk, making it an economical choice for larger runs.

14. Recycled Wood Chicken Coop

This compact homemade chicken coop, made from recycled wood, is located in a small backyard alongside a flower garden. With a small window and an entrance ramp, this design is not only functional but also visually pleasing.

The use of recycled materials adds an eco-friendly element, making it a responsible choice for environmentally conscious chicken keepers.

The small window provides natural light, while the entrance ramp allows easy access for the hens. This coop design illustrates how recycled materials can be creatively repurposed, resulting in a charming and effective chicken coop.

The surrounding flower garden enhances the overall aesthetic, creating a harmonious backyard environment.

• Utilize recycled materials for an eco-friendly design.
• Add a window for light and ventilation.
• Incorporate an entrance ramp for easy access.
• Position near a flower garden for aesthetic appeal.
• Consider adding decorative elements that reflect your style.

Pro Design Tip: Regularly inspect recycled materials for durability to ensure the safety of your chickens.

Budget Consideration: Using recycled materials can significantly cut costs and promote sustainability.

15. Gabled Roof Chicken Coop

This practical homemade chicken coop features a gabled roof and a fenced run in a suburban backyard. With hens, including a few Golden Comets, dust bathing in a sunny patch, this design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

The gabled roof adds character while providing effective rain runoff, ensuring the coop remains dry and safe.

The fenced run allows the hens to roam freely while keeping them safe from predators. This design combines practicality with beauty, making it an excellent choice for those who want a reliable and attractive coop in their backyard.

The sunny patch encourages natural behaviors, enhancing the overall well-being of the chickens.

• Incorporate a gabled roof for effective rain runoff and aesthetic appeal.
• Ensure the run is spacious enough for the hens to move comfortably.
• Provide natural sunlight exposure for the hens’ well-being.
• Consider using durable materials for longevity.
• Add a feeding area that is separate from the henhouse.

Pro Design Tip: Use high-quality roofing materials to ensure durability and weather resistance.

Budget Consideration: Investing in quality materials can save on future maintenance and repairs.

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16. Rustic Reclaimed Wood Coop

This rustic homemade chicken coop is surrounded by garden beds filled with vegetables in a rural backyard. Made of reclaimed wood, the coop provides a charming and functional home for hens that are seen foraging in the grass.

The design emphasizes sustainability and aesthetics, creating a beautiful and productive garden ecosystem.

The reclaimed wood adds character and sustainability, while the garden beds enhance the overall beauty of the landscape. This coop design exemplifies how chickens can contribute positively to a garden while also benefiting from a well-designed living space.

It encourages an engaging environment for both the chickens and the gardener.

• Incorporate reclaimed wood for sustainability and aesthetics.
• Position the coop near garden beds for a cohesive look.
• Ensure the run allows for natural behaviors like foraging.
• Consider decorative features that reflect your personality.
• Utilize weather-resistant materials for durability.

Pro Design Tip: Use natural finishes to enhance the beauty of the wood while protecting it from the elements.

Budget Consideration: Reclaimed materials can often be sourced at low or no cost, making this an economical choice.

17. Urban Corner Chicken Coop

This well-planned homemade chicken coop is positioned in the corner of a small urban yard, featuring a small porch and a run covered with straw. A few hens are pecking around, showcasing their realistic feather patterns.

This design maximizes space while ensuring the hens have a comfortable and engaging environment.

The small porch provides a resting area for the hens, while the straw covering in the run promotes natural behaviors. This design is perfect for city dwellers looking to incorporate chickens into their urban lifestyle without sacrificing aesthetics.

The corner positioning allows for optimal use of space while maintaining a pleasing appearance.

• Design a small porch for hens to rest and enjoy the outdoors.
• Use straw in the run for comfort and safety.
• Maximize space by positioning the coop strategically in the yard.
• Consider using lightweight materials for easy construction.
• Add decorative elements that reflect your personal style.

Pro Design Tip: Regularly change the straw in the run to maintain cleanliness and prevent odors.

Budget Consideration: Straw is an inexpensive bedding option that is also easy to replace.

18. Pallet Chicken Coop with Rustic Charm

This homemade chicken coop, made from pallets, showcases rustic charm against a backdrop of a suburban garden. Hens are seen nesting inside, with a few outside enjoying the sun.

This design emphasizes creativity and resourcefulness, making it an ideal choice for those looking to build a functional coop on a budget.

The rustic appearance of the pallet wood adds character while also being cost-effective. The nesting areas provide safe spaces for the hens, while the open design ensures they can enjoy the outdoors.

This coop design exemplifies how simplicity can be both functional and attractive, appealing to both novice and experienced chicken keepers.

• Utilize pallets for an affordable and rustic coop design.
• Add nesting areas for safe egg-laying.
• Ensure the design allows for easy access for maintenance.
• Incorporate decorative elements to enhance visual appeal.
• Position the coop to maximize natural sunlight.

Pro Design Tip: Regular maintenance of pallet wood is essential to ensure durability and safety.

Budget Consideration: Pallets are often available for free or at a low cost, making this a very budget-friendly option.

19. Cozy Vibrant Chicken Coop

This cozy homemade chicken coop features a vibrant red door and a fenced area with various plants. Hens, including a few Araucanas, are seen foraging around the coop.

This design emphasizes color and vibrancy, making it a delightful addition to any backyard.

The vibrant red door adds a striking focal point, while the surrounding plants enhance the overall aesthetics of the garden. This coop not only serves as a functional space for the hens but also contributes to the beauty of the outdoor environment.

This design is perfect for those who want to make a statement while keeping chickens.

• Incorporate vibrant colors for an eye-catching aesthetic.
• Add a fenced area for safe foraging.
• Ensure easy access for feeding and cleaning.
• Consider using a mix of plants to enhance the environment.
• Position the coop to maximize sunlight and airflow.

Pro Design Tip: Use weatherproof paint to maintain vibrant colors over time.

Budget Consideration: Painting the coop can be a cost-effective way to enhance its look without a major remodel.

20. Charming Suburban Chicken Coop

This charming homemade chicken coop is designed for a suburban plot, equipped with nesting boxes and a small run filled with dirt and grass. Hens are seen scratching the ground, creating a lively scene.

The design emphasizes comfort and functionality, ensuring the chickens have a safe and inviting home.

The nesting boxes provide a comfortable area for the hens to lay eggs, while the small run allows them to engage in natural behaviors. This coop design is perfect for those looking to create a beautiful and functional space for their chickens, seamlessly integrating into the suburban landscape.

• Incorporate nesting boxes for egg-laying comfort.
• Design a small run for safe outdoor access.
• Ensure the coop is sturdy and weather-resistant.
• Position to maximize sunlight exposure and airflow.
• Add decorative elements that complement the garden.

Pro Design Tip: Regularly check the coop for wear and tear to maintain safety and comfort for your chickens.

Budget Consideration: Investing in quality materials can save on future repairs and maintenance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, creating a homemade chicken coop is an exciting venture that combines functionality with personal expression. With a variety of design concepts to choose from, you can create a space that not only meets the needs of your chickens but also enhances the beauty of your backyard.

Whether you prefer rustic charm, modern simplicity, or vibrant colors, there’s a design idea that can reflect your unique style and cater to your lifestyle.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with these ideas and make them your own. The enjoyment of raising chickens and the satisfaction of building a cozy home for them is truly rewarding.

Embrace your creativity and create a space that you and your chickens will love!