20 Chicken Coop Décor Ideas to Create an Idyllic Backyard (2024)

20 Chicken Coop Décor Ideas to Create an Idyllic Backyard (1)

More than abackyard trend or passing phase, backyard chicken keeping is here to stay. As more and more people discover the joys of raising abackyard flock with delicious, fresh eggs at their service, chickens have become cherished backyard pets.

The primary function of a chicken coop is to provide theflock witha sheltered spot in which to lay their eggs and keep them safe from predators at night. A coop doesn’t need to be fancy, it just needs to be functional. It should have spacious nesting boxes filled with soft nesting material, wide, sturdy roosting bars, plenty of ventilation, strong welded wire on the windows, and predator-proof latches on the doors that even the wiliest raccoon can’t unlatch.

Meet the Expert

Lisa Steeleis a fifth-generation chicken keeper, aspiring herbalist, freelance writer, and author ofGardening With Chickens ($12). She is also the host of the television showWelcome to My Farmairing in local Maine markets.

But who’s to say you can’t add a bit offun to your coop?From homemade treats to chicaccouterments, chickens enjoy living the high life while providing families with a steady supply of eggs. And while chickens don’t ask for much in return, today’s keepers love to spoil their flock. After all, pampered chickens lay the freshest eggs!Keep reading for 20 tips on sprucing up your coop.

01of 20

Hang Curtains

20 Chicken Coop Décor Ideas to Create an Idyllic Backyard (2)

Studies have shown that chickens will instinctively seek out the most secluded spot they can find to lay their eggs. Farmers hang empty feed sacks or burlap bags over the front of their chickens’ nesting area to encourage laying, but why stop there? Use some pretty material to fashion curtains on a rod installed in the coop. Tie the curtains back with lace, ribbon, or string. If you don’t sew, use Velcro, staples, or nail fabric in place. When the curtains get dusty, take them down for laundering or make anew!

02of 20

Apply Wallpaper

20 Chicken Coop Décor Ideas to Create an Idyllic Backyard (3)

A well-dressed coop needs wallpaper, of course! Instead of traditional wallpaper, use vinyl contact paper or shelf liner on the walls. Not only does contact paper prevent mites or other insects from burrowing into the wood to hide, but it also makes cleanup incredibly easy. A wet sponge will quickly wipe the walls clean.

03of 20

Install Flooring

20 Chicken Coop Décor Ideas to Create an Idyllic Backyard (4)

Like getting the right wallpaper, purchasing a scrap of vinyl linoleum or other waterproof flooring for your coop will make cleaning much easier. Mopping linoleum clean is far easier than trying to clean bare wood. It also will prevent floorboards from rotting in the case of spilled water.

04of 20

Paint Exposed Wood

20 Chicken Coop Décor Ideas to Create an Idyllic Backyard (5)

Painting the exposed wood on the inside of the coop acts in much the same wayascontact paper. Cleaning is easier and it makes the wood less attractive to burrowing insects. Choosing a light color will also help brighten up the inside of the coop.

05of 20

Hang a Chandelier

20 Chicken Coop Décor Ideas to Create an Idyllic Backyard (6)

Another fun coop décor idea is to hang a chandelier or luxe light fixture from the ceiling. It'll give your chickens a glamorous backdrop and maybe even provide a little extra light.

06of 20

Put up a Mirror

20 Chicken Coop Décor Ideas to Create an Idyllic Backyard (7)

Hang a mirror on the wall of the coop during winter to keep hens from getting bored when they can’t be outside as much. They will enjoy watching themselves in the reflection. A word of warning if you have a rooster: If he catches sight of another handsome fellow in the coop, he might be tempted to fight him, so be aware of that potential for a broken mirror.

07of 20

Outfit With Art

20 Chicken Coop Décor Ideas to Create an Idyllic Backyard (8)

Do chickens appreciate a gallery wall as much as the rest of us? We may never know, but it certainly doesn't hurt to give your bird babies something to look at while also elevating their space.

08of 20

Opt for a Cute Thermometer

20 Chicken Coop Décor Ideas to Create an Idyllic Backyard (9)

Chickens are extremely susceptible to heat exhaustion, so keeping an eye on the coop’s temperature is important. Why not hang a large decorative thermometer to help you track the temperature and add to yourchicken coop décor? It can be as big and elaborate as you would like—the chickens won’t mind.

09of 20

Collect Egg Baskets

20 Chicken Coop Décor Ideas to Create an Idyllic Backyard (10)

Check eBay, antique shops, flea markets, or yard sales for metal egg baskets. If you’re the type who always forgets to bring a bowl or basket from the house to collect eggs, consider hanging a small assortment of egg baskets in the coop. Feed scoops are also inexpensive and can be hung individually or in groups on the walls.

10of 20

Sprinkle Dried Herbs

20 Chicken Coop Décor Ideas to Create an Idyllic Backyard (11)

Tossing some fresh or dried herbs into nesting boxes is another great chicken coop décor idea. Herbs can help flies and other insects from lingeringin the coop and look pretty while doing so. Fragrant herbs and edible flowers such as lavender, rose petals, calendula, chamomile, lemon balm, and mint are all favorites.

11of 20

Roll Out the Welcome Mat

20 Chicken Coop Décor Ideas to Create an Idyllic Backyard (12)

One of the simplest ways to give your coop a facelift? Roll out a welcome mat and spruce up the outside to look a little more inviting. Install an attractive light fixture, hang a few simple décor pieces, pop in some greenery, and you're all set with the cutest coop around.

12of 20

Plant Some Greenery

20 Chicken Coop Décor Ideas to Create an Idyllic Backyard (13)

Planting bouquets of fresh herbs does more than just make your coop look and smell great. Place them on windowsills or hang them in bunches from a pegboard or hooks. Herbs have been shown to repel against mites, and they can provide your chickens with a treat to munch on. Basil, thyme, lavender, and mint are good choices.

13of 20

Get Inspired

20 Chicken Coop Décor Ideas to Create an Idyllic Backyard (14)

Combine your love for your bird babies with your love of, well, anything. Get inspired when creating a hen haven—a themed coop will bring you and your chickens joy every day.

14of 20

Embrace Classic Architecture

20 Chicken Coop Décor Ideas to Create an Idyllic Backyard (15)

Looking for a truly unique home for your chicks? Design your own and model it after your favorite style of classic architecture. For example, if Cape Dutch meets classic French is your inspiration, run with it. The sky's the limit.

15of 20

Make it Modern

20 Chicken Coop Décor Ideas to Create an Idyllic Backyard (16)

For lovers of modern design, consider giving your chickens a contemporary coop. Opt for clean lines, and a streamlined color palette to get the look. Industrial and organic touches can complement a modern aesthetic as well.

16of 20

Repurpose an Old Door

20 Chicken Coop Décor Ideas to Create an Idyllic Backyard (17)

Give your coop an extra pop (and save some money) by rehabbing an old door. Leave it as-is or paint it in a contrasting color for some flair. Opting for a door with a working lock will keep your chickens a little safer, too.

Using a regular-sized door instead of a chicken-sized one can make it easier for you to access the coop cleaning and visiting your chicks.

17of 20

Commission a Sweet Sign

20 Chicken Coop Décor Ideas to Create an Idyllic Backyard (18)

Give your coop a personal touch with a sweet, custom sign. Commission a metal or wood sign locally or from a maker marketplace like Etsy, or opt for a DIY version if you're crafty.

18of 20

String Some Lights

20 Chicken Coop Décor Ideas to Create an Idyllic Backyard (19)

Every outdoor space can benefit from the addition of some ambient lights—even chicken coops. Hang some affordable string lighting to give your chickens the cute, cozy, and chic space they deserve.

19of 20

Cultivate the Landscape

20 Chicken Coop Décor Ideas to Create an Idyllic Backyard (20)

Whether your coop is a pre-fab hut or a hand-built haven, it can definitely benefit from some lush landscaping. Aside from beautifying your coop, the right landscaping can supplement your flock's diet, provide them with comfortable shade, and deter pests and predators from harming your hens.

20of 20

Decorate for the Holidays

20 Chicken Coop Décor Ideas to Create an Idyllic Backyard (21)

Hanging homemade pine garlands, wreaths, and strands of Christmas lights can turn a coop festive for the holidays. As an added bonus, rodents are reputed to not enjoy the scent of pine, so the garlands can act as a mouse deterrent.

12 Raised Garden Bed Ideas to Try in Your Own Backyard

Article Sources

MyDomaine uses only high-quality, trusted sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.

  1. Riber AB, Nielsen BL. Changes in Position and Quality of Preferred Nest Box: Effects on Nest Box Use by Laying Hens.Applied Animal Behaviour Science. 2013;148(3-4):185-191.doi:10.1016/j.applanim.2013.08.005

  2. Lara L, Rostagno M. Impact of Heat Stress on Poultry Production.Animals. 2013;3(2):356-369. doi:10.3390/ani3020356

  3. Maia MF, Moore SJ. Plant-Based Insect Repellents: A Review of Their Efficacy, Development and Testing.Malar J. 2011;10(S1):S11. doi:10.1186/1475-2875-10-S1-S11

  4. Nechita IS, Poirel MT, Cozma V, Zenner L. The Repellent and Persistent Toxic Effects of Essential Oils Against the Poultry Red Mite, Dermanyssus Gallinae.Veterinary Parasitology. 2015;214(3-4):348-352. doi:10.1016/j.vetpar.2015.10.014

  5. Singla N, Thind RK, Mahal AK. Potential of Eucalyptus Oil as Repellent Against House Rat, Rattus Rattus.The Scientific World Journal. 2014;2014:1-7. doi:10.1155/2014/249284

20 Chicken Coop Décor Ideas to Create an Idyllic Backyard (2024)

FAQs

What is the best layout for a chicken coop? ›

Usually, the chicken door should be located on the south facing side of the chicken coop. If designing a large coop, include a full-size door to make it easier for you to access the coop and clean the coop. Windows should be located on the east and west facing sides of the chicken coop.

How big of a coop for 20 chickens? ›

Chicken Coop Size Calcultor Table | Outside Space
Number Of Chickens420
Small Chickens32 s.f.160 s.f.
Medium Chickens40 s.f.200 s.f.
Large Chickens48 s.f.240 s.f.
Feb 15, 2023

How can I make my chicken coop more interesting? ›

Bales of Hay or Straw

Putting a bale or pile of straw or hay in the chicken coop or run will keep your girls entertained for hours - they are not a fan of piles! Watch as they scratch and peck at the straw searching for insects, seeds and other hidden goodies until there is a pile no more.

What is the best direction to face a chicken coop? ›

Build your chicken coop facing the south so that the coop will receive sunlight throughout the day.

What is best floor for chicken coop? ›

Coop flooring

Concrete is ideal as it is easy to clean and prevents pests or predators from digging underneath. Strong, galvanised or stainless steel aviary mesh is also suitable along with concrete pavers. Wooden boards can also work but must be supported above ground level to avoid any rot.

What is the best foundation for a chicken coop? ›

If you live in an area prone to erosion, you may want to consider adding a foundation with rocks or larger pebbles for additional drainage underneath the substrate that you choose to use in your run. Remember, just like people, chickens don't want soggy feet!

How many nesting boxes for 20 chickens? ›

Many seasoned chicken keepers recommend 1 chicken nesting box per 4-5 hens, but you should always have 2 minimum. So, if you have 20 chickens, you should have at least 4-5 nest boxes.

How big of a roost do I need for 20 chickens? ›

Bar length will vary by flock size, but plan for approximately ten inches of roosting space per chicken (although they are likely to perch close together for stability and warmth). Less space may be needed for bantam breeds, but allow enough to avoid competition for roosting room.

How many chickens feed 20 people? ›

Keep in mind that the size of the chickens and the specific cuts can vary, so adjust accordingly based on the actual portion sizes you're using. So, you would need approximately 10 chickens to feed about twenty people with three pieces each (thighs, legs, and wings).

What do chickens want in their coop? ›

Basic Needs for Chicken Coops

But all coops should have the following basic elements: four walls, a roof, proper ventilation, nesting boxes, and roosts/perches. Many coops are also attached to a chicken run. So the hens can have an opportunity to stretch their legs and enjoy the fresh air.

What do chickens like to do all day? ›

Chickens are naturally foragers. They love to be kept busy and free-range and peck at bugs, weeds, and grasses. But, for many chicken owners it's not safe or possible to have them free ranging in the backyard all day. The problem is that sometimes enclosed chooks can adopt some destructive behaviour, such as bullying.

What not to use in a chicken coop? ›

Rice hulls, peanut hulls, and corncobs aren't ideal for chicken bedding. They aren't as absorbent, and since they are an organic material, you have to keep on top of it and make sure the area is clean. “High mold levels and high ammonia retention make them not the best,” Byrum explains.

How far away from your house should you put your chicken coop? ›

No matter how strong the urge is to set your chicken coop directly next to your house, resist it. Besides the unpleasant odor and noise, chickens can attract pests you don't want to welcome to your home. In most cases, about 25- 30 feet away from the house is sufficient.

How close should a chicken coop be to a house? ›

This distance can vary wildly from state to state and town to town, depending on local regulations and the size of the coop, but usually ranges from 10 feet to 150 feet from any residence.

Should I build my chicken coop in the sun or shade? ›

To have happy, healthy hens, you need a bit of both: Shade in the summer and Sun in the winter. The coop needs shade during the heat of the day, but a little morning sun is both healthy, and the sun in the winter allows the chicken coop to warm up from the night chill.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Fr. Dewey Fisher

Last Updated:

Views: 5824

Rating: 4.1 / 5 (42 voted)

Reviews: 81% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Fr. Dewey Fisher

Birthday: 1993-03-26

Address: 917 Hyun Views, Rogahnmouth, KY 91013-8827

Phone: +5938540192553

Job: Administration Developer

Hobby: Embroidery, Horseback riding, Juggling, Urban exploration, Skiing, Cycling, Handball

Introduction: My name is Fr. Dewey Fisher, I am a powerful, open, faithful, combative, spotless, faithful, fair person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.