55+ Small Chicken Coop DIY

Creating a small chicken coop in your backyard can be a rewarding project that not only enhances your outdoor space but also provides a home for your feathered companions. Thoughtful design plays a crucial role in ensuring that your coop is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

By incorporating unique elements and personal touches, you can create a space that reflects your personality and lifestyle while catering to the needs of your chickens.

This article explores 20 unique DIY small chicken coop designs, each showcasing a variety of styles, materials, and layouts. From rustic charm to modern flair, these concepts will inspire you to craft a delightful coop that fits seamlessly into your garden or backyard.

Whether you’re an experienced DIY-er or just starting, you’ll find practical tips and creative ideas to help you along the way.

1. Pastel Paradise: A Cozy Coop for Buff Orpingtons

This small chicken coop DIY is a charming addition to a suburban backyard, crafted from reclaimed wood and painted in soothing pastel colors. The sloped roof and cozy design create a whimsical atmosphere, perfect for your Buff Orpington hens.

Inside, the coop features a spacious nesting area and ample ventilation, ensuring your chickens are comfortable and happy.

The coop’s run is filled with soft straw, creating a natural environment where the hens can forage and explore. The late afternoon light casts a warm glow over the scene, enhancing the nostalgic feel captured in the slightly grainy photograph.

To accentuate the cozy vibe, consider adding decorative elements like hanging flowers or garden art around the coop.

• Use reclaimed materials for an eco-friendly build.
• Paint in pastel colors to create a cheerful atmosphere.
• Incorporate a sloped roof for better rain drainage.
• Provide soft straw in the run for comfort.
• Add decorative elements to enhance visual appeal.

Pro Design Tip: Consider adding a small window to the coop for natural light and ventilation, ensuring a comfortable living environment for your hens.

Budget Consideration: Reclaimed wood can often be sourced at little to no cost—check local listings for free materials!

2. Rustic Retreat: A Homestead Haven

Nestled in the corner of a rural homestead, this DIY small chicken coop is a perfect example of rustic charm. Surrounded by vibrant wildflowers and a sturdy wooden fence, the coop is designed for both aesthetics and functionality.

Featuring windows that allow natural light to flood the interior, your Barred Plymouth Rock hens will enjoy a bright, airy environment.

The small ramp leading to the run offers easy access for the chickens, who are often seen dust bathing in the soft grass. Captured in early spring, the scene bursts with fresh greenery and the soft edges typical of early digital photography.

For a homestead vibe, consider planting additional flowers around the coop to enhance the natural beauty of the space.

• Incorporate natural materials like wood and stone for a rustic feel.
• Add windows for natural light and ventilation.
• Use a ramp for easy access to the run.
• Plant wildflowers around the coop for an inviting landscape.
• Consider a small pond for added charm and chicken enjoyment.

Pro Design Tip: Use weather-resistant finishes on wood to prolong the life of your coop and maintain its beauty over time.

Budget Consideration: Building with local materials can significantly reduce costs—check local sawmills for affordable options!

3. Charming Garden Coop: Eggs for Sale

This rustic small chicken coop DIY is not only functional but also a delightful feature in any suburban garden. With a hand-painted sign reading “Eggs for Sale,” this coop invites neighbors and friends to enjoy fresh produce from your backyard.

The simple design includes a hinged roof for easy access to the nesting box, making egg collection a breeze.

Golden-laced Wyandotte hens can be seen pecking at the ground, adding life to the scene captured during the golden hour. The warm glow of the sunset creates a cozy backdrop, while the grainy texture of the image adds a candid, homey feel.

To enhance the gardening theme, consider planting herbs or flowers nearby to create a vibrant color palette.

• Include a hand-painted sign for a personal touch.
• Design with a hinged roof for easy access.
• Opt for nesting boxes that are easy to clean and maintain.
• Plant nearby flowers or herbs for added beauty.
• Ensure the coop is secure from predators.

Pro Design Tip: Regularly check and clean nesting boxes to promote healthy egg production and hygiene.

Budget Consideration: Use low-cost materials like untreated pine for the coop’s frame, which can be painted to match your garden.

4. Shaded Sanctuary: A Cedar Coop

Situated in a shaded area of a backyard, this DIY small chicken coop is constructed from untreated cedar wood, ensuring a natural look that blends beautifully with the surroundings. The coop is surrounded by potted herbs, providing a fragrant garden atmosphere for both chickens and humans.

With two Rhode Island Red hens foraging for insects, the scene is lively and inviting.

Captured on a bright summer afternoon, the vibrant greens of the garden contrast beautifully with the weathered texture of the coop. The soft shadows create a relaxing ambiance, making it an ideal spot for relaxing and enjoying nature.

To enhance the chicken’s environment, consider adding a dust bath area filled with sand or fine dirt.

• Build from untreated cedar for a natural look and aroma.
• Add potted herbs around the base for a fragrant environment.
• Incorporate a dust bath area for chicken health.
• Provide shade to keep hens comfortable during hot days.
• Choose a design that fits well in your garden layout.

Pro Design Tip: Use natural repellents for pests to keep your chickens healthy and happy.

Budget Consideration: Potted herbs can be grown from seeds to save on costs and provide a sustainable source of fresh herbs.

5. Urban Oasis: A Compact Chicken Coop

This cozy small chicken coop DIY is perfect for a compact urban backyard, featuring a vertical garden of climbing plants on one side. The coop is designed with a sliding door and a small ramp, allowing easy access for both chickens and owners.

Captured during a late afternoon, the soft shadows add depth to the scene, creating a serene atmosphere amidst the hustle and bustle of urban life.

The hens peek out from inside, curious about their surroundings. This design not only maximizes space but also integrates greenery into the structure, promoting a sustainable lifestyle.

To enhance the urban feel, consider installing a green roof or additional planters on the coop.

• Incorporate vertical gardens to maximize limited space.
• Use sliding doors for easy access in tight areas.
• Add a small ramp for convenience.
• Choose plants that are safe for chickens in the vertical garden.
• Install a green roof for added insulation and aesthetics.

Pro Design Tip: Utilize every inch of space creatively, including vertical gardening or hanging planters, to enhance both function and beauty.

Budget Consideration: Vertical gardens can be created using repurposed materials like pallets or old crates.

6. Colorful Coop: A Family-Friendly Design

This functional small chicken coop DIY is a cheerful addition to a family-friendly suburban yard, showcasing the use of repurposed pallets and vibrant colors. The coop is surrounded by a fenced run where a few hens roam freely, adding life to the space.

In front, a small vegetable patch complements the coop, illustrating a harmonious relationship between gardening and chicken-keeping.

Captured during a sunny spring day, this design bursts with vibrant colors, showcasing the joy of backyard farming. The slightly grainy texture of the photo reflects the nostalgic feel of DIY projects.

To create a cohesive environment, consider incorporating colorful flowers or decorative elements around the coop.

• Use repurposed pallets for an eco-friendly build.
• Paint the coop in vibrant colors to create a cheerful aesthetic.
• Fencing should be sturdy yet visually appealing.
• Integrate vegetable gardens for a sustainable approach.
• Consider adding colorful decorations for a personal touch.

Pro Design Tip: Choose colors that complement your home or garden to create a cohesive outdoor space.

Budget Consideration: Repurposed pallets are often free or inexpensive, making them a budget-friendly building material.

7. Watering Hole: A Charming Coop with a Pond

This charming small chicken coop DIY is surrounded by fruit trees, featuring a thatched roof and a chicken run with a small pond. Two Sussex hens are seen splashing water as they drink, creating a lively scene in the early evening light.

The soft lighting enhances the rustic charm of the coop, making it an ideal retreat for both chickens and their owners.

The integration of water features not only adds beauty but also encourages natural behaviors in chickens. Captured with minor motion blur, the photograph evokes a sense of liveliness and tranquility.

To further enhance this serene environment, consider adding more plants or decorative stones around the pond.

• Incorporate a water feature for added beauty and functionality.
• Design with natural elements like thatched roofs for a rustic feel.
• Surround the coop with fruit trees for shade and food.
• Encourage natural behaviors by providing water sources.
• Add decorative stones or plants around the pond for a cohesive design.

Pro Design Tip: Ensure pond water is fresh and clean to promote a healthy environment for both chickens and aquatic life.

Budget Consideration: Small inflatable ponds are available at low costs and can be an easy alternative to permanent water features.

8. Practical Design: A Plywood Coop with a Vegetable Patch

This practical small chicken coop DIY is constructed from plywood, offering a sleek and modern design. The bright red door serves as a cheerful focal point, while a visible nesting box adds functionality to the structure.

A few Leghorn hens can be seen scratching the ground, creating a lively and engaging environment.

Captured in the late morning, the natural light casts soft shadows, highlighting the clean lines of the coop. The addition of a vegetable patch beside the coop creates a sustainable ecosystem where both chickens and plants thrive.

For extra charm, consider painting the coop in a color that complements your home.

• Choose plywood for a clean and modern design.
• Incorporate a bright door as a focal point.
• Add a visible nesting box for convenience.
• Include a vegetable patch for an integrated garden.
• Consider adding decorative paint for added charm.

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

Budget Consideration: Plywood is often affordable and widely available, making it a great choice for DIY projects.

9. Shaded Comfort: A Gabled Roof Coop

This well-structured small chicken coop DIY is built from stained wood with a gabled roof, providing both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. The coop features a run that is partially shaded by a large oak tree, creating a comfortable environment for a couple of Orpington hens resting in the shade.

Captured during fall, the scattered leaves and warm tones create a picturesque setting, embodying the charm of backyard chicken-keeping. The slightly grainy quality of the photograph adds to the rustic feel.

To enhance the coop’s functionality, consider adding a ramp for easy access to the run.

• Opt for a gabled roof for added visual interest.
• Use stained wood for a warm and inviting look.
• Incorporate shade with trees for chicken comfort.
• Add a ramp for easy access to the run.
• Consider seasonal decorations to enhance the coop’s charm.

Pro Design Tip: Ensure the coop is well-ventilated to keep hens comfortable during hot summer months.

Budget Consideration: Stained wood can often be sourced at a lower cost, especially if you choose to DIY the staining process.

10. Rustic Charm: A Metal and Wood Coop

This simple yet effective small chicken coop DIY combines rustic charm with modern materials, made from corrugated metal and wood. The coop features a small porch area, providing an inviting space for your chickens to enjoy.

A few hens can be seen foraging nearby, showcasing the natural behaviors of these delightful birds.

The scene is set in the morning light, with soft focus and slight digital noise typical of early 2008 phone camera images. The combination of metal and wood creates a visually appealing aesthetic that can blend seamlessly into various outdoor environments.

To enhance the rustic charm, consider adding a small flower bed in front of the coop.

• Combine materials like metal and wood for a rustic look.
• Add a small porch for a cozy chicken hangout.
• Ensure the coop is secure against predators.
• Consider planting flowers for added beauty.
• Incorporate natural elements for a cohesive design.

Pro Design Tip: Use weather-resistant finishes on metal to prevent rust and maintain the aesthetic over time.

Budget Consideration: Corrugated metal can often be found at local hardware stores at competitive prices.

11. Green Oasis: A Coop with a Roof Garden

This functional small chicken coop DIY features a green-painted wood structure and a mesh run, creating a beautiful and practical space for your chickens. With a small roof garden atop the coop, herbs grow in abundance, providing both culinary delights and a natural habitat for your hens.

Two hens are seen perched on the coop’s edge, enjoying their surroundings.

Captured in the early evening light, the vibrant colors of the coop and the lush greenery create a stunning visual. This design not only maximizes space but also promotes a sustainable lifestyle.

To further enhance the environment, consider installing a rainwater collection system for watering both the chickens and the garden.

• Use green paint to promote a natural aesthetic.
• Add a roof garden for herbs and plants.
• Incorporate a mesh run for chicken safety.
• Consider rainwater collection systems for sustainability.
• Ensure all plants are safe for chickens.

Pro Design Tip: Choose herbs that are beneficial for chickens, such as oregano and thyme, to promote their health.

Budget Consideration: Growing herbs from seeds is an affordable way to populate your roof garden.

12. Creative Coop: A Windowed Design

This creative small chicken coop DIY is built from old windows and wood, offering a unique aesthetic that stands out in a suburban backyard. Positioned among blooming flowers, the coop has a small door and several chickens peeking out, adding charm and life to the scene.

Captured during a sunny afternoon, the light reflects off the glass, creating a soft glow that enhances the overall atmosphere.

The use of recycled materials not only promotes sustainability but also adds character to the coop. To further embellish the design, consider using colorful flowers around the base, creating a vibrant garden setting for your hens.

• Incorporate recycled materials for a unique design.
• Use windows to create a light-filled environment.
• Surround the coop with colorful flowers for visual appeal.
• Add a small door for easy access.
• Ensure windows are secure to prevent predator access.

Pro Design Tip: Use non-toxic sealants on recycled materials to ensure safety for your chickens.

Budget Consideration: Old windows can often be sourced at little to no cost from local construction sites or salvage yards.

13. Eco-Friendly Coop: Recycled Materials

This small chicken coop DIY is made from recycled materials, demonstrating an eco-friendly approach to chicken-keeping. Located in a rural backyard surrounded by tall grass and wildflowers, the coop features a small porch and a run where a couple of hens can be seen foraging.

Captured in late summer, the warm tint of the photograph evokes a cozy feeling and highlights the beauty of sustainable living.

The use of recycled materials not only reduces waste but also adds a unique character to the coop, making it a true reflection of your values. To enhance the environment, consider planting additional wildflowers around the coop, creating a vibrant and inviting landscape.

• Use recycled materials for an eco-friendly coop.
• Add a porch for a charming touch.
• Incorporate wildflowers for a natural setting.
• Ensure the coop is secure and well-ventilated.
• Promote natural foraging behaviors in your hens.

Pro Design Tip: Regularly check for wear and tear on recycled materials to ensure the safety of your coop.

Budget Consideration: Recycled materials can often be sourced for free or at a low cost, making them a budget-friendly option.

14. Whimsical Garden Coop: A Picket Fence

This charming small chicken coop DIY features a whimsical paint job and a small picket fence, creating a delightful focal point in any suburban garden. The coop boasts a large window and a run filled with straw, inviting a few hens to peck around.

Captured during a sunny spring day, the vivid colors and playful design evoke a sense of joy and creativity.

The picket fence adds an extra layer of charm, making the coop feel like a storybook setting. To enhance the whimsical atmosphere, consider adding decorative elements like painted rocks or whimsical garden ornaments.

• Incorporate a whimsical paint job for a playful aesthetic.
• Add a picket fence for charm and security.
• Ensure ample ventilation with windows.
• Use straw in the run for comfort.
• Add decorative elements for a personal touch.

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

Budget Consideration: DIYing decorative elements can be a fun and low-cost way to enhance your coop’s charm.

15. Practicality Meets Nature: A Plywood Coop

This practical small chicken coop DIY, built from plywood, features a small covered run, providing a secure and comfortable environment for your chickens. Surrounded by colorful flowers, the coop is a beautiful addition to any backyard, where a few hens can be seen exploring the area.

Captured in the early morning light, the soft focus and slight overexposure reflect the beauty of natural light.

The design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, ensuring your chickens are safe while enhancing your outdoor space. To create a cohesive look, consider matching the coop’s color with your home or garden decor.

• Build from plywood for a clean and modern design.
• Add a covered run for protection from the elements.
• Surround the coop with flowers for added beauty.
• Ensure the coop is secure against predators.
• Match the coop’s color with your home for a cohesive look.

Pro Design Tip: Regular maintenance of the coop and run will ensure a healthy environment for your chickens.

Budget Consideration: Plywood is an affordable building material that is easy to work with for DIY projects.

16. Pastel Dream: A Sloped Roof Coop

This small chicken coop DIY in a quaint urban backyard features a sloped roof and is painted in pastel hues, creating a serene and charming environment. The coop includes a fenced run, allowing a couple of bantam chickens to forage freely.

Captured during a sunny afternoon, the gentle light highlights the coop’s soft colors and delightful details.

The design not only enhances the overall aesthetic of the backyard but also provides a safe and comfortable home for the chickens. To further enrich the environment, consider planting colorful flowers or herbs around the coop.

• Incorporate a sloped roof for visual interest.
• Paint in pastel hues for a calming atmosphere.
• Add a fenced run for chicken safety.
• Plant flowers and herbs for added beauty.
• Consider using non-toxic paints for safety.

Pro Design Tip: Use pastel colors that complement your home for a cohesive outdoor space.

Budget Consideration: DIYing the painting process can save costs and allow for creative expression.

17. Sunset Glow: A Reclaimed Wood Coop

This rustic small chicken coop DIY is made from reclaimed wood, complete with a small run where a couple of hens can be seen pecking at the ground. The coop features a sliding door and a green roof, blending beautifully into the natural surroundings.

Captured during sunset, the warm tones create a picturesque setting that invites you to relax and enjoy the moment.

The design promotes sustainability while providing a cozy home for your chickens. To enhance the rustic feel, consider adding stone pathways or garden beds around the coop, creating a harmonious environment.

• Use reclaimed wood for an eco-friendly build.
• Incorporate a sliding door for easy access.
• Add a green roof for insulation and aesthetics.
• Surround the coop with stone pathways for added charm.
• Ensure the coop is well-ventilated for chicken comfort.

Pro Design Tip: Regularly check the structural integrity of reclaimed wood to ensure safety and longevity.

Budget Consideration: Reclaimed wood can often be sourced for free or at low costs from local construction sites.

18. Cozy Haven: A Weathered Wood Coop

This cozy small chicken coop DIY is nestled among fruit trees, constructed from weathered wood, giving it a charming, rustic appearance. The coop features a run filled with straw, providing a comfortable space for a couple of hens seen resting.

Captured in the late afternoon, the soft lighting enhances the inviting feel of the scene, making it a beautiful addition to any backyard.

The natural materials used in this design create a welcoming environment for chickens while blending seamlessly into the landscape. To further enhance the ambiance, consider adding decorative elements like garden lights or a small seating area nearby.

• Use weathered wood for a rustic and cozy look.
• Add straw in the run for comfort.
• Surround the coop with fruit trees for shade and food.
• Incorporate decorative elements for added charm.
• Ensure the coop is secure and well-ventilated.

Pro Design Tip: Regularly inspect the coop for wear and tear, especially on weathered wood, to ensure safety and longevity.

Budget Consideration: Weathered wood can often be sourced at lower costs, especially from salvage yards or local listings.

19. Sunny Retreat: A Plywood and Vegetable Garden Coop

This functional small chicken coop DIY is constructed from plywood, featuring a small vegetable garden next to it. The coop includes a bright yellow door, serving as a cheerful focal point amidst the greenery.

A few hens can be seen pecking around, showcasing the natural behaviors of these delightful birds. Captured in the late morning light, the scene is bright and inviting, reflecting the beauty of backyard farming.

The design promotes a sustainable lifestyle by integrating a vegetable garden with the chicken coop. To enhance the environment, consider planting companion plants that benefit both the chickens and the garden, creating a harmonious ecosystem.

• Use plywood for a clean, modern design.
• Add a vegetable garden for sustainability.
• Incorporate a bright door for visual appeal.
• Choose companion plants that benefit both chickens and the garden.
• Ensure the coop is secure against predators.

Pro Design Tip: Regularly rotate plants in the vegetable garden to promote soil health and diversity.

Budget Consideration: Growing vegetables from seeds can save costs and provide a sustainable food source.

20. Modern Rustic: A Metal and Wood Urban Coop

This practical small chicken coop DIY is situated in a compact urban backyard, constructed from corrugated metal and wood. The rustic charm of the design is complemented by a small porch area, creating a welcoming space for your chickens.

A few chickens can be seen foraging nearby, showcasing the natural behaviors of these delightful birds.

The scene is set in the morning light, with soft focus and slight digital noise typical of early 2008 phone camera images. The combination of modern and rustic materials creates a visually appealing aesthetic that can blend seamlessly into various outdoor environments.

To enhance the urban feel, consider adding planters or decorative elements around the coop.

• Combine modern materials like corrugated metal with wood for a rustic look.
• Add a small porch for a cozy chicken hangout.
• Ensure the coop is secure against predators.
• Incorporate decorative elements for added charm.
• Consider planting herbs or flowers around the coop for a vibrant atmosphere.

Pro Design Tip: Use weather-resistant finishes on metal to prevent rust and maintain the aesthetic over time.

Budget Consideration: Corrugated metal can often be found at local hardware stores at competitive prices.

In conclusion, creating a small chicken coop DIY is not only a fulfilling project but also a way to enhance your outdoor space while providing a safe home for your chickens. Each design concept presented in this article showcases unique styles, materials, and layouts, allowing you to find inspiration tailored to your needs.

Remember to experiment with colors, textures, and materials as you embark on this exciting journey. Your backyard coop can be a reflection of your personality, lifestyle, and creativity—so let your imagination run wild!