Modern chicken houses are a great way to bring the traditional free-range house designs to the 21st century. These contemporary designs emulate the traditional characteristics of a chicken coop, but often include modern touches, such as solar panels or innovative insulation materials. Many may come with planter boxes, so you can let your hens graze in the garden, or netting for animal containment. Some houses can even be built on wheels, for those who need a mobile hen house. Custom-built modern chicken houses truly capture the essence of the traditional free-range lifestyle with a modern spin. Modern chicken houses are perfect for those looking to get the best of both worlds. With the added bonus of a sleek, modern exterior, these houses combine the attractive simplicity of a traditional design, with the easy maintenance and cleanability of a contemporary model. For those looking to ease into the free-range trend without the fear of dealing with a complicated set up, modern chicken houses are an ideal solution. Modern Free Range Chicken House Designs
Modern Free Range Chicken House Designs
If you're new to the concept of free-range chicken keeping, backyard-oriented designs are probably the best option. Not only will they ensure that your flock has plenty of room to roam, but these designs also provide protection from predators. Easy-to-care-for and relatively inexpensive, backyard designs are an ideal beginner option for those wanting to give free-range a shot. Some may come with planters for growing vegetables to feed your chickens, plus these houses are often durable, weather-resistant, versatile and aesthetically pleasing. These backyard free range chicken house designs come in a variety of sizes, which is perfect for those who don't have a lot of space to work with. Smaller designs commonly face a run-and-scratch design, so the birds have plenty of room to explore, while larger designs can include everything from a run, nesting boxes, roosting perches, feeding trays, and more. If you're looking for an easy way to get your free-range chickens started right, backyard house designs are the way to go. Backyard Free Range Chicken House Designs
Backyard Free Range Chicken House Designs
If you're looking for a more involved experience, DIY free range chicken coop plans are also readily available. Not all of us have the skills to make a coop out of wood and nails, so why not take a DIY free-range chicken coop plan and make it your own? From square houses to A-frames, there are design plans available for every skill level and lifestyle. Most come with a list of materials, along with instructions for assembling the coop. Many DIY free range chicken coop designs come with run-oriented plans as well, allowing you to customize the plan to meet the specific needs of your flock. This can be especially helpful if you live in an area where predators are a common issue, or if you want to give your birds some areas to escape the elements. Whatever your plans, DIY designs are a great way to add unique personal touches and ensure that your coop meets the needs of your flock. DIY Free Range Chicken Coop Designs
DIY Free Range Chicken Coop Designs
If you're looking to stay in one place for a few years, a permanent free-range chicken house design might be the way to go. Designed for long-term use, and often placed on concrete slabs, these structures promote easier upkeep while taking up less ground space. This way, your chickens can stay in one spot for years to come. Plus, these houses can come in a variety of sizes, ranging from small enough for a single hen, to large enough for a family-sized flock. If placed in a covered area, permanent designs also offer an added layer of protection from the elements. Meaning that you won't have to worry about carting your coop from place to place. For the family looking for a coop that can stay in one spot, these permanent free range chicken house designs can be ideal. Permanent Free Range Chicken House Designs
Permanent Free Range Chicken House Designs
Sometimes called "chicken arks", Covey Chick free-range house designs offer the perfect balance between a coop and an open-air run. These structures are usually open on one side, like an enclosure, so your chickens have ample access to open air, but are still securely confined. This provides a nice balance between security and fresh air for your flock. Some may come with built-in perches while others may offer nesting boxes or even feeders. These structures are a great way to make sure your chickens can free-range each day without the fear of them fleeing. Durable, weather-resistant and non-toxic, these designs are ideal for those who desire more run than coop, while still keeping their chickens safe from predators. For those who want to give their flock plenty of room without the worry, Covey Chicks free range house designs are a must. Covey Chicks Free Range House Designs
Covey Chicks Free Range House Designs
If you're only looking to start with a few chickens, small-scale designs are perfect for creating an ideal living space. These designs come in snug sizes, allowing you to keep the cost and maintenance down while still giving your flock plenty of fresh air and space. Small-scale designs often come with nesting boxes and can be mobile, for easy transport from space to space. They're also typically made out of rot-resistant wood, like cedar, to prevent damage from weather and pests. Small-scale designs are a great way to start a free-range adventure without needing to commit to a large-scale, more permanent setup. Ideal for small flocks or those just starting out, these small-scale free range chicken house designs are perfect for getting started. Small-Scale Free Range Chicken House Design
Small-Scale Free Range Chicken House Design
Organic free-range house designs offer the healthiest way to keep your chickens in running terms. These models usually utilize materials like untreated lumber, organic feeders and non-toxic paint. This is to ensure that the living space environment is as clean as possible for your birds. These models generally come pre-built, however, they can also come as plans. If planning is more your style, organic plans for DIY building are usually readily available. Organic free range chicken house designs are great for those wanting to keep their flock as healthy as possible. With their all-natural set up and easy maintenance, these models are an ideal way to add a healthy and healthy-looking living space to any free-range backyard. Organic Free Range Chicken House Designs
Organic Free Range Chicken House Designs
If you're looking specifically for a coop for your hens, layer-friendly models are the way to go. These designs usually feature an elevated living space, allowing your chickens to stay elevated off the ground while laying. This also helps reduce the mess and stress of maintaining your chicken coop, as the chickens won't shuffle dirt around. Layer-friendly designs also usually come with nesting boxes that are easily accessible to your flock. For those concerned about their hen's well being, layer-friendly free range chicken coop designs are a great option. These models come with elevated living spaces and nesting boxes that make it easy for your flock to move around, as well as a tidy and hygienic living environment. Layer-Friendly Free Range Chicken Coop Designs
Layer-Friendly Free Range Chicken Coop Designs
A combination design, Coop & Run models are perfect for those looking to give their chickens the best of both worlds. These structures are usually constructed out of wood, with an enclosed living space for the chickens, and a variation of a tunnel or run attached for them to explore. Many models offer built-in planters where you can grow your own ingredient-rich vegetation for your chickens, too. Coop & Run houses aim to offer an all-in-one experience. Coop & Run free range chicken house designs are a great option for those looking to give their chickens plenty of room to roam. Easy-to-clean and relatively low-maintenance, these houses are the ideal solution for the free-range family looking for a little bit of everything. Coop & Run Free Range Chicken House Designs
Coop & Run Free Range Chicken House Designs
Those living in climates with extreme weather conditions should look into weatherproofed chicken houses. These houses come with insulated walls and roofing combined with large henging openings, which provide ventilation and protection from freezing temperatures during winter months. Some may even come with solar panels or thermal insulation for added protection. And usually the windows and doors are up high enough that predators can't get in them. For those living in colder climates or who plan to move their coop to a cooler place, weatherproof free range chicken house designs are an excellent option. Providing your flock with an additional layer of fortified protection, these models are easy to set up and maintain, and are designed to last against whatever mother nature throws at them. Weatherproof Free Range Chicken House Designs
Weatherproof Free Range Chicken House Designs
Essential Considerations for Free Range Chicken House Design
Choosing the
right design
for a free-range chicken house can be a challenging task, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming. It is important to understand the fundamentals of
house design
that will provide a safe and secure home for your chickens. With proper planning, you can build a structure that fits your needs, is both
cost-effective
and sustainable.
Location and Environment
When planning the perfect chicken house, the
location
should be the first consideration. The environment around your structure will heavily influence the design. Where is the highest point of the land, or where is the ground the most level? You’ll also need to consider the weather patterns in the area, such as extreme heat, heavy rain, or piercing winds. Other influencing elements include the availability of light, such as direct sunlight or blocked sun, the temperature, and the humidity.
Space Requirements
In addition to the location, think about the layout of your free-range chicken house. Plan the area by taking into account things such as the number of chickens you want to keep, the size of the nests, the
perching
space, and the necessary exits. You may need to use multiple runs that allow your chickens to roam freely. Once you know how much space you will need, the construction can begin.
Ventilation and Insulation
Organizing the proper ventilation and insulation will also be an essential part of the design. Air needs to be able to circulate to maintain proper temperatures year-round, as well as to help combat
humidity
and moisture levels. Adequate insulation should be ensured to minimize the amount of heat escaping and reducing the cost of heating the chicken house during colder months.
Protection and Comfort
Finally, you need to consider the comfort and protection of your chickens. A strong, yet lightweight roof that will protect chickens from the elements is essential. A strong, durable floor provides warmth and safety from predators. Walls should be constructed with regulated wiring mesh or wire fencing and have several doors for easy access. Scratching posts and other accessories can be included to make your chickens feel at home.
Summary
When designing a free-range chicken house,
location
, space requirements, ventilation, insulation,
protection
, and comfort are all key considerations. With planning and research, you can build a structure that optimizes the wellbeing of your chickens while meeting the budget requirements.
