One of the most satisfying projects we’ve tackled at Victory Hill Farms has been building our own backyard chicken coop. Not only does it provide fresh eggs daily, but it also gave us a chance to create a space tailored to our birds’ health and our land’s layout.
We started with a basic design: a raised coop with nesting boxes, a sloped roof for runoff, and a secure run to keep predators out. We used salvaged lumber from a nearby barn tear-down, and added a few modern touches — like removable trays for easier cleaning and a motion-sensor light for nighttime security.
If you’re considering raising chickens, don’t be intimidated. A DIY coop is more approachable than you think, and there’s a certain pride in watching your hens settle into a space you built yourself.
In the next few weeks, we’ll share plans, materials lists, and some lessons learned along the way — including how to keep your birds warm through a midwest winter.
