A modern farmhouse chicken coop on a lawn near a garden
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How to Build This Modern Farmhouse Chicken Coop: A Detailed DIY Plan

Introduction:

Welcome to this step-by-step guide to building the exact Modern Farmhouse chicken coop illustrated in our recent Pinterest pin. This stylish and functional design is perfect for beginner chicken keepers (and looks amazing in a backyard, as seen in the image!). This coop is designed to safely house 3-4 chickens (depending on size and climate) and provides a secure, raised roosting area, external nesting box, and an enclosed run, just like the one featured in our guide. Let’s get building!

Approximate Time to Build: 2-3 weekends (for beginners). Approximate Cost: $300 – $600 CAD (depending on wood prices and reclaimed materials). Difficulty: Beginner – Intermediate DIY.

Part 1: Preparation & Materials List

Tools You Will Need:

  • Miter saw (preferred) or circular saw.

  • Power drill/driver with bits.

  • Measuring tape & speed square.

  • Level.

  • Staple gun (for mesh).

  • Paintbrushes/rollers.

  • Safety glasses & work gloves.

Shopping List & Materials (Based on image):

  1. Lumber:

    • 2x4s (various lengths: standard 8ft or 10ft are easiest).

    • 2x2s (for the run and window trim, as seen in the design).

    • Shiplap siding boards (preferred for the classic look) OR Plywood sheeting.

    • Pressure-treated 4x4s (for the foundation skids).

  2. Roofing:

    • Natural wood shingles (shakes) (as seen in image) OR metal roofing panels.

  3. Hardware & Mesh:

    • Hardware cloth (Welded wire mesh  – Crucial for security – NOT chicken wire).

    • Exterior screws (2.5″, 1.5″, 1″) and staples.

    • Heavy-duty door hinges and latch.

  4. Windows & Finishes:

    • Small accent windows or window pane kits.

    • Window box kit.

    • Exterior paint (White base) & wood stain (Natural roof/trim).

Part 2: The Step-by-Step Construction

Step 1: The Foundation

  • Cut two pieces of pressure-treated 4×4 lumber to the full length of the desired footprint (e.g., 8ft). These will be your foundation skids.

  • Lay them parallel and level them carefully. Pro tip: Place them on gravel or concrete pavers to prevent direct ground contact and rot.

the foundation of a chicken coop

Step 2: Frame the Base & The Run

  • Build the entire floor frame on top of the skids using 2x4s. For a 4ft x 8ft coop, create a rectangular frame 4ft wide by 8ft long.

  • Divide the base frame (the image shows about 1/3 for the raised coop and 2/3 for the run). Add 2×4 supports.

  • Install hardware cloth across the entire base frame, burying the edges slightly. This stops digging predators.

  • Install the solid flooring (plywood) only on the section designated for the raised coop interior.

step 2 the frame and the run

Step 3: Build the Raised Coop Structure

  1. Frame the walls of the raised coop section (approx. 4ft x 3ft) using 2x4s, elevating them about 1.5 – 2ft off the ground.

  2. Attach your shiplap or plywood siding to the coop section only, creating the “coop” walls. Leave openings for the windows and the access doors.

step 3 build the raised coop structure

Step 4: Construct the External Nesting Box

  • Following the image design, build the small, external rectangular nesting box frame. It should attach to the side wall of the raised coop.

  • Attach siding to the bottom and three sides. Create a separate, hinged lid for easy egg collection.

step 4 construct the externing box

Step 5: Enclose the Run & The Roof

  • Use the thinner 2×2 lumber to frame the large, open run section, attaching the uprights to the base frame.

  • Cover the run framing entirely with the hardware cloth, using a staple gun. Don’t forget the bottom digging barrier!

  • Frame the roof. Add plywood sheathing and install the wood shakes (as pictured). Stain the roof for weather resistance.

step 5 enclose the run and the roof

Part 3: Final Touches & Customization

Step 6: Doors and Windows

  • Build the large human access door for the run section (on the front) and a smaller door for the raised coop section.

  • Install the doors using sturdy hinges and latches. Ensure latches are predator-proof.

  • Install the small accent windows. Create the simple decorative window boxes (as seen). Add fresh flowers for that classic farmhouse curb appeal!

a modern farmhouse chicken coop

Step 7: Painting and Interior

  • Paint the entire coop structure with exterior-grade white paint. Add natural wood stain to the roof shingles and any wood trim.

  • Install the small chicken ladder/ramp leading from the run up into the raised coop door.

  • Inside the coop: Install a roosting bar and fill the nesting box with straw.

💡 Pro Tips for Happy Chickens

Once your coop is built and your flock has moved in, here are two small secrets to keeping them healthy and happy:

 

 

  • Dust Baths are Essential: Don’t forget that chickens absolutely love (and need!) dust baths. It’s their natural way of staying clean and keeping lice and mites away. Make sure they have access to a dry, sandy area where they can dig and fluff their feathers.

  • The Ultimate Treat: If you want to become your chickens’ favorite human, keep a bag of dried mealworms or black soldier fly larvae on hand. They go absolutely crazy for them! It’s a great source of protein and the perfect way to bond with your new flock.”

Conclusion

And there you have it! A complete guide to building your very own Modern Farmhouse chicken coop. It’s the perfect project to combine your love for DIY and homesteading. Make sure to tag us on Pinterest or Instagram when you share your finished project!

Don’t forget that chicken love to bath i

Hope you enjoy ! 

Love projects like this? Explore more ways to enjoy the fresh air in my [Outdoor Activities] category!