Chicken Coops for Backyard Flocks

Want to raise chickens but not sure what type of coop is best for your backyard? These 11 stylish hen houses will help you decide whether to buy one or design and build one yourself — plus how to make a coop work with your landscape.

By Anna Millman
Filed under: Backyard, Gardening

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Teepee Coop and Compost Bin

Inspired by the conical tents used mostly by the Great Plains American Indians, large culms of bamboo form the outside of this coop. Flaps secured at the top can be dropped down for shade.
The owners' chickens especially like the adjacent compost bin, and their scratching and pecking help aerate it and break down the organic matter. The hens also add their own droppings, which serve as excellent fertilizer. Note: If your chickens have access to compost, don't add food scraps that would be bad for them to eat, and be sure to watch out for mold.