If you’re thinking about raising chickens in your backyard, creating a cozy and safe home for them is essential. A DIY chicken coop is not only a great way to save money but also allows you to design the perfect space for your feathered friends. In this article, we’ll explore 23 easy DIY chicken coop plans that will help you create the ideal habitat for your chickens. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or just starting out, there’s a plan here that will suit your needs. Let’s get started!
1. The Classic A-Frame Chicken Coop
This classic design is perfect for those who want a functional and easy-to-build chicken coop. The A-frame structure is compact, making it ideal for small to medium-sized backyards. It’s a simple, yet efficient design that offers plenty of ventilation, keeping your chickens cool during the summer months.
The A-frame chicken coop is built using basic materials such as wood, wire mesh, and roofing shingles. It can be elevated off the ground to provide extra protection from predators. The slanted roof allows rainwater to drain easily, and the elevated coop ensures the floor stays dry. Additionally, the design features a spacious nesting box and roosting bars, so your chickens can comfortably lay eggs and rest.
This design can easily be customized with a small ramp for chickens to enter and exit, as well as a run space for them to roam during the day. With a bit of paint, this coop can blend beautifully with your garden, adding a rustic charm to your backyard.
2. The Pallet Chicken Coop
For those on a budget, the pallet chicken coop is an ideal solution. This plan is designed using repurposed pallets, making it an affordable and sustainable choice. Pallets are widely available for free or at a low cost, and they can be stacked and secured to create the base of your chicken coop.
The pallet design offers great versatility. You can create a simple, compact coop or expand it with multiple levels to give your chickens more space. One of the advantages of using pallets is that they allow for excellent airflow, which helps with ventilation and keeping the coop cool in hot weather.
The structure can be modified to include a secure nesting area and roosting bars. Additionally, the use of pallets ensures that the coop is elevated off the ground, offering protection from dampness and predators. This design is not only eco-friendly but also an easy project for DIY enthusiasts.
3. The Small Backyard Coop
If you’re working with limited space, the small backyard coop design is perfect for you. This compact design is ideal for keeping a few chickens in a suburban or city environment where space is tight. It’s easy to build, and you can easily incorporate it into your existing garden or backyard layout.
This chicken coop design often includes a small, enclosed run area that is secure from predators. The compact size doesn’t compromise on functionality, with enough space for chickens to roam and lay eggs comfortably. It’s a good idea to incorporate ventilation features such as windows or small mesh openings to ensure that your chickens have fresh air.
The small backyard coop is also customizable with various materials such as wood, wire mesh, and plastic sheeting. The use of vertical space can help maximize room, so your chickens have adequate space for both resting and laying.
4. The Large Run Coop
A larger coop with an extended run area is a great option for those who want to provide their chickens with more space to roam freely. This design includes both a coop section for the chickens to sleep and a large outdoor run for them to explore during the day. The large run chicken coop is perfect for keeping multiple chickens in a safe, secure environment.
This plan usually includes a sturdy frame made from wood or metal and covered with wire mesh to protect against predators. The run area can be enclosed with a roof or netting to prevent hawks or other flying predators from getting to your chickens. The coop section can be equipped with multiple nesting boxes, roosting bars, and ample floor space for your chickens to rest.
The large run coop is ideal for those with ample backyard space who want to keep their chickens healthy and happy while ensuring they have plenty of room to move around.
5. The Hen House Style Coop
For those who prefer a more traditional design, the hen house style chicken coop is a fantastic option. This type of coop mimics the look of a barn or farmhouse, offering a charming and rustic aesthetic to your backyard. It typically features a sloped roof and large doors for easy access.
Inside, the hen house coop provides enough space for several chickens to rest and lay eggs. The nesting boxes are often built into the walls, while the roosting bars are placed higher up to ensure that the chickens have enough room to perch. Additionally, this design often includes a small run area that can be attached for free-range chickens.
The hen house style chicken coop is easy to customize, and it’s a sturdy option that will last for many years.
6. The Modern Chicken Coop
If you’re looking for something sleek and modern, the modern chicken coop might be just what you need. This design often incorporates clean lines, minimalist features, and modern materials such as steel, glass, and concrete. It’s a great option for those who want a stylish addition to their outdoor space.
The modern chicken coop can be designed to match your home’s architecture, making it a seamless addition to your backyard. Many designs feature large windows or clear panels to allow you to easily observe your chickens. The interiors are often designed with ample space for roosting and nesting, ensuring that your chickens are comfortable.
This type of coop can also be built with a built-in run, which is enclosed with wire mesh or solid walls to keep predators out. The modern chicken coop is not only functional but also an eye-catching piece of outdoor decor.
7. The Mobile Chicken Coop
A mobile chicken coop, also known as a chicken tractor, is perfect for those who want to move their chickens around the yard or garden. This design features wheels or a wheeled base, allowing you to easily relocate the coop to different areas of your property. This ensures that your chickens always have fresh grass and a clean environment.
Mobile chicken coops typically include a small coop section for resting and laying eggs, as well as a run area for the chickens to roam. The coop is often lightweight but sturdy enough to protect against predators. Some designs even include a handle or towing mechanism, making it easy to move the coop around.
This type of coop is perfect for people who want to give their chickens access to different parts of their property while maintaining a secure environment.
8. The DIY Barrel Chicken Coop
For those with limited space and a desire for a unique design, the DIY barrel chicken coop is an excellent option. This plan uses a repurposed barrel, which is transformed into a functional and compact chicken coop. The circular shape of the barrel provides an interesting aesthetic while offering an efficient use of space.
The barrel chicken coop can be easily customized with ventilation holes, a door for access, and a secure area for the chickens to roost. You can also add a small run area attached to the barrel for the chickens to explore during the day. The barrel coop is simple to build and can be created in a few hours.
The compact nature of the barrel design makes it ideal for small backyards or urban environments where space is at a premium.
9. The Cottage Style Coop
If you’re looking for a coop with a bit more charm, the cottage style chicken coop could be a great fit. This design combines rustic features with a cozy, homey aesthetic. It typically includes a slanted roof, windows, and a quaint door, making it a charming addition to your garden.
Inside, the cottage style chicken coop provides a comfortable space for chickens to sleep and lay eggs. It often includes a separate nesting area, roosting bars, and plenty of room for the chickens to move around. You can even add decorative touches, like window boxes or shutters, to enhance the appearance.
This type of coop is perfect for people who want to add a bit of cottagecore charm to their backyard while still providing their chickens with a functional and safe environment.
10. The Treehouse Chicken Coop
For those who want to take their chicken coop to new heights, the treehouse chicken coop is a fun and innovative option. This design is built above the ground, often on stilts or attached to a tree, providing your chickens with a unique and secure environment.
The treehouse coop usually features a small ladder or ramp for the chickens to access the elevated coop. It offers plenty of ventilation and protection from predators, as the height makes it harder for ground-based predators to reach the chickens. You can also add a small run underneath the coop for the chickens to roam.
This design works best in larger yards with trees, but it can also be built as a freestanding structure if you don’t have a suitable tree. The treehouse chicken coop is a whimsical yet practical way to house your chickens in style.
11. The Eco-Friendly Chicken Coop
For environmentally conscious chicken keepers, the eco-friendly chicken coop is a great choice. This design focuses on using sustainable materials, such as recycled wood, straw, and natural insulation, to create a green and eco-friendly coop. It’s designed to minimize the environmental impact while still offering a safe and comfortable home for your chickens.
The eco-friendly chicken coop includes features such as composting areas, rainwater collection systems, and energy-efficient ventilation. You can also add solar panels to power any lights or fans inside the coop. The design focuses on reducing waste and promoting sustainability, making it a great choice for eco-conscious homeowners.
12. The Vintage Chicken Coop
If you love vintage aesthetics, the vintage chicken coop might be just the design you’re looking for. This coop features a retro design with antique finishes, often including elements like old windows, rustic doors, and weathered wood. It’s a beautiful option for those who want to create a charming and nostalgic space for their chickens.
The vintage chicken coop is often spacious, with a cozy nesting area and plenty of room for roosting. It’s built with durability in mind, using sturdy materials like wood and wire mesh. The vintage design adds character and personality to your backyard while providing a safe space for your chickens to thrive.
13. The Compact Cube Coop
For those who prefer a minimalist design, the compact cube chicken coop is a great option. This modern and clean design features a simple square or cube shape, providing just enough space for your chickens to rest and lay eggs. The compact size makes it perfect for small backyards or urban environments.
The cube coop can be built using wood or metal and can easily be customized with a small run area. It typically includes a roof, ventilation holes, and a door for access. The compact design doesn’t sacrifice functionality, ensuring your chickens are comfortable while saving space in your backyard.
14. The Raised Platform Chicken Coop
For a stylish yet practical option, consider building a raised platform chicken coop. This design elevates the coop off the ground, providing protection from predators and dampness. The raised platform design is ideal for areas with heavy rainfall or wet ground conditions, as it ensures that the chickens’ living area stays dry and safe.
The structure is typically built with sturdy materials like wood, and the raised platform can include a small ladder or ramp for easy access. Beneath the coop, you can create a secure run area for the chickens to roam, and the elevated design allows for better ventilation. The raised platform also adds a neat and organized look to your backyard, especially if you add storage space beneath the coop for feed, tools, or other chicken supplies.
This design is also great for people who want to keep their chickens elevated for easier maintenance and cleaning.
15. The Geodesic Dome Coop
For a truly unique and eye-catching chicken coop, the geodesic dome design is a fantastic option. This structure features a series of triangular panels arranged to form a dome shape, which provides a spacious and airy environment for your chickens. The dome design offers excellent ventilation and allows natural light to flood the coop, which is beneficial for the chickens’ well-being.
A geodesic dome chicken coop provides plenty of space for chickens to move around and can be expanded with a run area attached to the base. The design is strong and stable, with the dome shape providing an added layer of protection against wind and weather conditions. While building a geodesic dome may require more effort and precision, it’s a fun and innovative way to house your chickens while giving your backyard a modern touch.
16. The Shipping Container Chicken Coop
For those who are looking for a durable, secure, and somewhat unconventional design, a shipping container chicken coop is an excellent choice. Repurposing a shipping container for a chicken coop offers a level of strength and protection from predators that other designs may not provide. Shipping containers are built to withstand harsh weather conditions, making them ideal for areas with extreme climates.
This design allows you to use the container as the main structure, and you can modify it with windows, doors, ventilation holes, and a secure run area. The container can also be insulated to provide extra warmth during colder months. The use of a shipping container may not be the most traditional option, but it’s certainly one of the most durable and secure.
17. The Compact Barn Chicken Coop
If you prefer a more classic, farm-style look, a compact barn chicken coop could be just what you need. This design takes inspiration from traditional barns, with a sloped roof and a rustic feel. The compact barn coop is perfect for those with limited space but who still want a charming and functional chicken coop.
The design typically includes a central coop area with nesting boxes and roosting bars, as well as a small run area attached to the side. The barn-style coop is often made from wood and features a barn door, giving it a classic farmhouse look. The slanted roof is designed to allow rain and snow to easily slide off, keeping the coop dry. This style works well in suburban and rural settings and is a great addition to any backyard.
18. The Wooden House Chicken Coop
For a chicken coop that blends seamlessly with your home, the wooden house chicken coop design is a wonderful option. This plan takes inspiration from the architecture of small houses, giving your chickens a cozy, home-like environment. It typically features a steeply pitched roof, windows for natural light, and a charming door.
The wooden house chicken coop offers enough space for chickens to roost and lay eggs while keeping them protected from predators. The design includes built-in nesting boxes and roosting bars, and you can easily customize it with a small attached run. This design is perfect for homeowners who want their chicken coop to blend with the rest of their outdoor décor.
The wooden house style adds both functionality and style to your backyard, creating a welcoming home for your chickens.
19. The Recycled Materials Coop
A recycled materials chicken coop is a fantastic option for those who are eco-conscious and want to build a coop using sustainable materials. This plan focuses on repurposing old wood, pallets, and other materials that might otherwise go to waste. Not only is this a cost-effective solution, but it also helps reduce the environmental footprint.
The recycled materials coop is often designed to be simple and functional. You can create a basic structure with nesting boxes, roosting bars, and a secure run area. By using recycled materials, you can customize the design to suit your backyard while giving your chickens a safe and comfortable place to live. This design works especially well for those with limited resources or a desire to go green.
20. The Walk-In Chicken Coop
If you want easy access to your chickens and prefer not to bend over or crawl into a small space, a walk-in chicken coop is a great option. This design is spacious enough for you to stand up inside the coop, making it much easier to clean and maintain. A walk-in chicken coop typically has large doors that allow you to enter and move around freely.
The walk-in coop can be built with a solid wood frame and mesh for ventilation. Inside, there’s enough room to install multiple nesting boxes and roosting bars. You can also incorporate a larger run area for the chickens to explore. This design is perfect for chicken keepers who want a functional and easy-to-maintain coop without having to crouch or bend over.
21. The Vertical Chicken Coop
If you have limited space but still want to keep several chickens, a vertical chicken coop might be the best solution. This design makes use of vertical space, stacking the chicken coop on top of itself to create more room for your flock. Vertical coops often have multiple levels, with nesting boxes and roosting bars on each level.
The vertical chicken coop design is ideal for small backyards, urban environments, or any situation where horizontal space is limited. The vertical structure allows your chickens to have ample room while keeping the footprint small. This design can be modified to include a run area attached to the bottom, and you can also incorporate sliding doors for easy access.
22. The DIY Playhouse Chicken Coop
For a fun and playful design, the DIY playhouse chicken coop is an excellent choice. This coop takes the form of a small playhouse, complete with windows, a door, and a charming roof. It’s a great way to add a whimsical touch to your backyard while providing your chickens with a safe and comfortable environment.
The playhouse chicken coop can be designed to be small or large, depending on how many chickens you want to house. Inside, you can add nesting boxes, roosting bars, and a secure run area for the chickens to roam. The design is easy to customize, and you can even add decorative touches like flower boxes, shingles, or a porch to enhance the playhouse feel.
23. The Castle Chicken Coop
Last but certainly not least is the castle chicken coop. For those who want to go all out with a whimsical and fun design, the castle chicken coop is sure to impress. This design features turret-style towers, a drawbridge, and castle-like walls, making it a standout addition to your backyard.
While the design is decorative, it doesn’t skimp on functionality. Inside, you’ll find all the essential features like nesting boxes, roosting bars, and a secure run area. The castle design also provides ample ventilation and protection from predators. It’s a great way to make your chicken coop the talk of the neighborhood while providing your chickens with a safe and stylish home.
Conclusion
Building a DIY chicken coop can be a rewarding and fun project that adds charm and functionality to your backyard. Whether you’re interested in a simple, budget-friendly design or a more elaborate, customized structure, there are plenty of options to choose from. Each of these 23 chicken coop plans offers a unique way to house your chickens while keeping them safe and comfortable.
By considering your available space, your chickens’ needs, and your personal style, you can select the perfect chicken coop design for your backyard. With a little effort and creativity, you can create a safe and welcoming home for your chickens that will last for years to come. Happy coop building!
