17 Easy DIY Chicken Coop Plans to Inspire Your Backyard Farm
Building a chicken coop might seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re an experienced DIYer or a beginner, there are plenty of easy-to-follow plans that can help you create a safe, cozy, and stylish home for your chickens. In this guide, we’ll walk you through 17 different DIY chicken coop plans, each one designed to suit a variety of backyard spaces and personal preferences. So, grab your tools, and let’s dive into these inspiring plans!
1. The Classic A-Frame Coop
The A-frame chicken coop is a classic design that combines simplicity with functionality. This plan is ideal for small to medium-sized backyards, as it’s compact and space-efficient. The A-frame structure makes it easy to build, and the triangular shape provides excellent ventilation, ensuring your chickens stay cool during the summer months.
Typically constructed using basic lumber, this design features a raised floor, which helps keep your chickens dry and protected from the elements. The sloping roof design also ensures that rainwater doesn’t pool on top of the structure, helping to prolong the life of your coop. Additionally, the A-frame coop is easy to clean, as it allows for easy access to both the nesting boxes and roosting areas.
The beauty of this design lies in its versatility. You can customize it to fit your needs, from adding a run to expanding the coop for a larger flock. The A-frame is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a DIY project that’s relatively easy to build, budget-friendly, and effective in providing a safe, comfortable environment for your chickens.
2. The Pallet Chicken Coop
Repurposing pallets is one of the most cost-effective ways to build a chicken coop. This DIY plan focuses on using reclaimed materials, such as wooden pallets, to construct a simple, rustic chicken coop that’s both environmentally friendly and budget-conscious.
Pallets are readily available from hardware stores, warehouses, and even online marketplaces, and they are sturdy enough to create a reliable coop. The design often involves stacking pallets to form the walls and structure of the coop, with a slanted roof to ensure proper drainage. You can even use the gaps between pallets for ventilation, which will help keep the inside of the coop airy and fresh.
This plan allows for easy customization depending on the size of your flock. By securing additional pallets and materials, you can make the coop larger or smaller to suit your specific needs. You’ll also love how simple it is to construct—no complex framing is required. Whether you want a compact coop for a small number of chickens or a larger setup for a growing flock, this pallet chicken coop is an affordable, sustainable option.
3. The Walk-In Coop
If you want a chicken coop that allows you to walk inside and interact with your chickens easily, the walk-in coop is the way to go. This design provides ample space for both your chickens and yourself, making it much easier to clean the coop, collect eggs, and handle your flock.
A walk-in coop typically features a full-size door, often with windows for added natural light and ventilation. The walls are constructed using wood, and you can choose to install mesh wire to keep predators out while allowing for plenty of airflow. The spacious interior can be divided into separate sections, including nesting boxes, roosting areas, and storage for feed.
The best part about the walk-in coop is the convenience it offers. You won’t have to bend down or crawl inside to clean up after your chickens. This design is perfect for chicken keepers who want to spend more time with their flock and need easy access to all areas of the coop. It also works well for larger flocks, as the increased space allows chickens to roam freely and comfortably.
4. The Chicken Tractor
A chicken tractor is a mobile coop that allows you to move your chickens around your yard, giving them access to fresh grass, bugs, and other natural food sources. This design is perfect for those who want to ensure their chickens get plenty of exercise and have access to a more natural diet.
Typically built on wheels or a simple frame, a chicken tractor is lightweight and easy to move from one spot to another. It can be designed as a small, compact structure or a larger setup, depending on how many chickens you have. The bottom of the tractor is often left open to allow chickens to scratch and forage on the ground. However, it’s important to ensure that the coop is secure enough to protect your chickens from predators while they’re out in the open.
The beauty of the chicken tractor is its mobility. You can easily move the coop to different areas of your yard, giving your chickens fresh pasture and helping to fertilize your lawn. It’s a great option for anyone who wants a flexible, environmentally-friendly way to raise chickens in their backyard.
5. The Modern Coop with a Loft
If you love the idea of a sleek, modern design, the modern coop with a loft could be the perfect choice. This style incorporates a loft area for nesting boxes and roosting, maximizing the use of vertical space. The clean lines, large windows, and modern aesthetic make this coop a stylish addition to any backyard.
The loft design is particularly helpful in optimizing the space inside the coop, especially for those with limited yard space. Chickens can roost comfortably in the upper levels, while the lower area can be dedicated to feed storage and a small area for the chickens to roam. The modern coop often includes large ventilation openings or mesh wire, ensuring that the interior is well-ventilated and well-lit.
This design not only looks great but is highly functional. The use of vertical space helps to keep the floor area open, reducing clutter and making it easier to clean. If you’re looking for a more contemporary coop that still provides all the essentials, the modern loft coop is a fantastic choice.
6. The Repurposed Shed Coop
Transforming an old shed into a chicken coop is a fantastic way to upcycle materials and save money. Repurposing an existing shed gives you a solid structure to work with, and all you need to do is modify it to create a safe and comfortable home for your chickens.
This type of coop is ideal if you already have a small shed on your property or are able to find one cheaply at a garage sale or online marketplace. Most shed coops include large doors for easy access, along with windows and ventilation to ensure your chickens are comfortable. Depending on the size of the shed, you can easily create separate areas for nesting, roosting, and feeding.
The advantage of using a shed is that it’s already weatherproof, so you won’t have to worry about building a roof or walls from scratch. It’s also a very durable structure, meaning your chickens will be safe from predators and the elements. If you’re looking for a quick, practical solution that doesn’t require much construction, the repurposed shed coop is an excellent option.
7. The DIY Chicken Coop on Wheels
A mobile chicken coop is a versatile and practical solution for those who want the ability to move their chickens around their yard. The DIY chicken coop on wheels allows you to move your flock to fresh grass and shade each day, making it a great option for keeping your chickens healthy and happy.
This design typically involves building a lightweight wooden structure on a simple frame with wheels, making it easy to transport. The coop usually has a small, secure area for the chickens to sleep and lay eggs, while the rest of the space can be left open for them to roam. The mobility of the coop ensures that your chickens always have access to fresh pasture and reduces the impact on your lawn by evenly spreading out the wear and tear.
If you want a low-maintenance option that allows your chickens to enjoy a natural diet, the mobile coop is a great way to go. It’s especially useful if you have limited space in your backyard and need to rotate the coop regularly.
8. The Free-Range Coop with Run
For chicken keepers who want to give their flock as much space as possible, a free-range coop with an attached run is the ideal solution. This design features a large outdoor area, typically enclosed by mesh wire, where your chickens can roam freely, scratch, and forage.
The coop itself is usually small, with nesting boxes and roosting areas, but the real beauty of this design is the spacious run that’s attached. The run allows chickens to have ample room to move around while still being protected from predators. If you have a large backyard, this type of setup can work wonderfully to give your chickens the freedom to explore their surroundings.
A free-range coop with a run offers a perfect balance of security and freedom for your chickens. It allows them to enjoy the natural environment without the constant worry of predators or other threats. It’s a great option for those who want happy, healthy chickens that can roam freely during the day.
9. The Raised Coop
A raised chicken coop offers several benefits, including better protection from predators and a dryer environment for your chickens. Raising the coop off the ground keeps the chickens safe from flooding during rainy weather and helps protect them from ground-dwelling predators such as raccoons.
This design is also a great way to keep your backyard neat and tidy. The area beneath the raised coop can be used for additional storage, such as feed, tools, or other equipment. The elevated structure also makes cleaning and maintenance easier, as you can access all areas of the coop without having to bend down or crawl inside.
A raised coop is ideal for anyone who wants to keep their chickens safe and dry while maximizing their outdoor space. It’s a practical and efficient option, especially in areas with wet conditions or higher predator activity.
10. The Small Shed Coop
For those with limited space or a small flock, a small shed chicken coop is a perfect option. This design takes advantage of a compact, pre-built shed structure, which can be easily modified to accommodate your chickens.
Typically, the small shed coop includes a couple of nesting boxes, a roosting area, and an enclosed outdoor space for the chickens to roam. The shed can be customized with windows for ventilation and extra security, ensuring that your chickens stay comfortable and safe. The small size makes it easy to place in a corner of your backyard, and the structure is simple to build or modify.
This coop is great for beginners or those looking for a low-maintenance, no-frills chicken setup. It provides just enough space for a small flock without taking up too much room, making it a perfect choice for urban chicken keepers or those with limited space.
11. The DIY Chicken Coop with Garden
Imagine a chicken coop that not only houses your chickens but also enhances your garden space. The DIY chicken coop with a garden integrates both a chicken habitat and a small vegetable or flower garden, making it a multifunctional addition to your backyard. This design encourages a sustainable, eco-friendly lifestyle where your chickens help to fertilize your garden while you reap the benefits of fresh produce.
This plan often involves creating a fenced-in area with a garden bed on one side and the chicken coop on the other. The chickens are free to roam around and scratch the soil, helping to aerate and fertilize it naturally. Meanwhile, the garden area provides a safe space for you to grow herbs, vegetables, or flowers, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem in your backyard.
The beauty of this design lies in its dual purpose. You get to enjoy both the company of your chickens and the rewards of gardening, making it a perfect solution for anyone who wants to combine both hobbies. The layout is flexible and can be adjusted to fit your space, so you can create a setup that works for you.
12. The Cozy Coop with Nesting Boxes
A cozy chicken coop with dedicated nesting boxes is a perfect option for ensuring your chickens have a comfortable and safe space to lay their eggs. This design focuses on providing a snug environment with specific areas for nesting, making it easier for your hens to lay eggs in peace and comfort.
Nesting boxes are an essential feature of this plan, as they provide a private area for hens to lay eggs. The boxes are usually made of wood or plastic and are lined with bedding materials, such as straw or hay, to keep the eggs clean and safe. The coop itself should be well-ventilated, with plenty of roosting space to ensure that your chickens are comfortable at night.
The cozy coop with nesting boxes is ideal for those who are primarily interested in egg production. It ensures that your chickens have the necessary environment to lay their eggs in an environment free from stress and disruption. If you’re a beginner chicken keeper, this simple design is easy to build and maintain.
13. The Raised Coop with Stairs
A raised coop with stairs is a great choice if you want to keep your chickens elevated for better protection and easy access. This design is similar to the raised coop but with the added benefit of stairs for human access, making it easier to care for your chickens without bending down or crawling inside.
The stairs allow you to enter the coop comfortably, whether you’re collecting eggs, cleaning, or spending time with your flock. Beneath the raised coop, you’ll often find a space for storing tools, feed, or other chicken-related items, which helps keep your backyard organized. This design also provides better protection for your chickens from predators that may roam the ground.
The raised coop with stairs is perfect for chicken keepers who want a low-maintenance setup with added convenience. It’s a practical design for those who don’t want to deal with the discomfort of bending or crawling into a low coop, and it’s great for keeping your chickens safe and dry.
14. The Multi-Level Coop
If you’re looking to maximize the space inside your chicken coop, a multi-level design is the way to go. This plan involves creating a chicken coop with several levels for roosting, nesting, and feeding, allowing you to house more chickens in a small area.
The multi-level coop typically uses vertical space efficiently, with each level serving a different purpose. The bottom level can be used for feeding and roaming, while the upper levels are dedicated to nesting and roosting. You can even add ramps or ladders for the chickens to move between the different levels, creating an interesting and stimulating environment for them.
This design is ideal for chicken keepers with limited space or those looking to house a larger flock in a small backyard. By using vertical space effectively, the multi-level coop ensures that each chicken has enough room to roam while keeping the footprint of the coop small.
15. The Customizable Coop
If you have specific needs or want to build a chicken coop that perfectly fits your backyard, a customizable coop is the way to go. This design allows you to choose the size, materials, and layout to fit your space and your chickens’ needs, making it highly adaptable.
The customizable coop can be designed with multiple features, such as separate roosting areas, nesting boxes, a large run, or even space for storage. You can adjust the height, width, and layout to suit your flock’s size, climate, and your aesthetic preferences. Whether you prefer a rustic wooden structure or a sleek modern design, the customizable coop offers the flexibility to make your vision a reality.
This plan is ideal for chicken keepers who want a personalized setup. You’ll have the freedom to design the coop exactly how you want it, ensuring that your chickens are happy, comfortable, and well cared for.
16. The Mini Coop for Urban Hens
Living in the city doesn’t mean you can’t have chickens! A mini coop is a perfect solution for urban chicken keepers who have limited space but still want to raise their own hens. These compact coops are small enough to fit in a small backyard or even on a rooftop, making them ideal for apartment dwellers or city residents.
The mini coop typically includes a small roosting area, nesting boxes, and a tiny run where chickens can roam. Despite its small size, the coop is designed to provide everything your hens need to live comfortably. You can even create a mobile mini coop that you can move around your space to give your chickens access to fresh grass.
This design is perfect for anyone with limited space but a strong desire to raise chickens. It’s a simple, easy-to-build option that allows you to enjoy fresh eggs and the joy of raising chickens, even in an urban environment.
17. The Chicken Mansion
For chicken keepers who want to spoil their flock with luxury, the chicken mansion is the ultimate coop design. This elaborate structure provides an extravagant space for your chickens to live in comfort and style, complete with spacious runs, multiple levels, and a range of luxurious features.
A chicken mansion often includes a large, enclosed run where chickens can roam freely, along with multiple nesting boxes, roosting bars, and even indoor “rooms” for your flock. The coop is typically designed with a high-quality wooden structure, ensuring durability and security. You can even add special features like windows, insulation, or an outdoor patio area for your chickens to enjoy.
While it’s a bit more complex and expensive to build, the chicken mansion is ideal for those who want to go all out and provide their chickens with the best living environment possible. It’s perfect for chicken enthusiasts who want to make a statement with their chicken coop and are willing to invest in a high-end setup.
Conclusion
Building a DIY chicken coop doesn’t have to be a challenging project. With these 17 easy-to-follow chicken coop plans, you can create a comfortable, secure, and stylish home for your chickens, regardless of the size of your backyard or your experience level. Whether you’re looking for a simple A-frame design or a luxurious chicken mansion, there’s a plan for every need and budget.
When choosing the right coop for your flock, consider factors like the size of your chickens, the climate in your area, and how much space you have available. With the right plan, you’ll not only provide your chickens with a safe and cozy home, but you’ll also enjoy the satisfaction of building something yourself.
Happy coop building, and may your chickens thrive in their new home!
