Is it time to take your chicken coop to the next level?
When it comes to creating the perfect home for your new flock, you may have something special in mind.
But if you’re not familiar with planning a construction project, you might be looking for a little inspiration and guidance.
So we’ve put together this list of ideas that will help get those wheels turning.
Find Chicken Coop Plans on Instagram
Instagram is one of the most visual social platforms around. And if you follow some favorite chicken-loving accounts, you know there’s usually something beautiful to ogle over.
Whether it’s pretty little eggs all in rainbow rows or a new chicken coop plan created al la Chip and Joanne from Fixer Upper, all you have to do is hit the right hashtags to get an eyeful of chicken fix-for-the-day.
Type in some of the following to bring up some fantastic chicken coop ideas to spark your imagination:
- #chickencoop
- #chickencoopplans
- #coops
- #chickencoopideas
And of course, don’t forget to follow us for your daily dose of poultry eye candy.
Find Chicken Coop Ideas on Pinterest
We’ll admit, one of our first places to dig up inspiration is usually Pinterest. And that’s because it’s one of the most visual search engines on the planet with millions of contributors, just like us.
In fact, we’ve got a board set up specifically for new chicken owners looking for coop-building inspiration.
So go check it out, we’ll wait.
Oh and here’s a special tip: if you search for free chicken coop plans, a bunch of freebies will pop up for you to print out and work off of.
Our advice? Find a predator-proof plan, use what you’ve got, and then snaz it up once it’s complete.
Some of the most straightforward designs turn out to be the most beautiful.
In fact, we’ve seen some pretty impressive coop designs out there (some are jaw-droppingly gorgeous, like this one).
Just remember, the most important thing is safety and functionality, beauty can come later!
Facebook Groups of Chicken Fanatics
Facebook can be like the wild wild west, at times. Everyone seems to have the all the answers.
And, in truth, there’s plenty of good advice from experienced chicken owners on Facebook.
But instead of falling down the rabbit hole, here’s what we suggest:
Join a handful of chicken groups and search for the term “chicken coop plans” or “chicken coop design” rather than asking questions or endlessly scrolling the feed.
Who’s got time for that? Not us! We’d rather be with our chickens.
By searching, you’ll avoid the know-it-alls and still get the inspiration you’re looking for when planning your first chicken coop design.
And be sure to check out Henny+Roo on Facebook while you’re there!
Chicken Coop Planning Books
Lastly, you can always get find inspirational and coop-planning books that walk you through the exact process of building your first chicken coop.
All you have to do is page through and find the design of your dreams…then head to the lumber yard!
These are some of our favorite chicken coop building books.
2. Building Chicken Coops For Dummies
Coop-planning books are great for beginners who need a little extra advice when building their first coop.
Usually, everything from the nesting box to the dust bath, and the roost is already planned out and included.
Plus, you know that you’re following plans for a coop that’s been tested against the elements and predators.
So go ahead, and take the experts’ advice. You can always add your personal touches after the coop is complete, like this coop sign now available in the Henny+Roo Shop:
Amazon for Easy Peasy Chicken Coops
We know not everyone has the time, or ability, to design and construct their own chicken coop. But, if that’s you, it shouldn’t stop you from making your chicken dreams come true.
You can find pre-made, semi-started, chicken coops on sites like Amazon. Here are a few that have received good reviews:
- SnapLock Formex Large Chicken Coop Backyard Hen House 4-6 Large 6-12 Bantams
- GUTINNEEN Outdoor Wooden Chicken Coop Large Hen House Poultry Cage, 69in, Waterproof UV Panel
- PawHut 114″ Wooden Customizable Backyard Chicken Coop with Nesting Box and Runs
Pre-made chicken coops come ready to snap together, and in most cases, all the designing and safety considerations are all done for you.
With that being said, it’s still a good idea to review the materials the coop is made from. That way, you can ensure that it will hold up during bad weather and cold conditions (if that’s where you’re located). You may have to fortify premade coops by adding a 2×4 base frame, hardware cloth on any openings, a stronger door locking mechanism, and/or a protective wood finish to lengthen the life and protectiveness of the coop.
Also watch for treated wood and materials that might be toxic to chickens.
An excellent way to ensure you’re purchasing a quality coop is to read through the reviews of what previous buyers have said about the chicken coop.
We wish you the best in creating a safe and happy home for your flock!