Raising chickens should be enjoyable, but for many backyard chicken keepers, the coop quickly becomes a point of frustration. Maybe it's too small. Maybe it's hard to clean. Or maybe it’s just not built to last. Sound familiar?
That’s where custom chicken coops come in. At Dakota, we believe your coop should work for you, not the other way around. By converting one of our high-quality storage sheds into a chicken coop, you can buy chicken coops that meet your exact needs, whether you’re just starting out or expanding your flock.
Let’s walk through how you can create the perfect custom coop using Dakota’s 3D Configurator.
Traditional pre-built coops are convenient, but they’re not always the best fit, especially if your flock is growing or your space needs are unique. Many mass-produced coops are built with minimal room, limited ventilation, and flimsy materials that may not hold up for more than a few seasons.
Converting a shed into a chicken coop gives you the ability to build a setup that truly works for you and your flock.
Chickens need room to roost, nest, and roam comfortably. A shed-based coop gives them just that and then some. You’ll have room to walk, keep food and water cleanly separated, and even create zones for brooding, isolation, or integrating new birds.
You decide the layout. You choose how many nesting boxes to include. Want a 50/50 split between chickens and feed storage? Done. Want to integrate a small hobby corner or potting bench? You can do that too. You’re designing a space that suits your flock and your daily routine.
Dakota sheds are built to handle tough conditions, from blazing summer sun to freezing Midwest winters. With weather-resistant siding, durable flooring, and secure framing, these structures are made to last. That means fewer repairs, fewer replacements, and a coop that stays functional for years.
Many of our customers love the flexibility of combining their coop with other needs. Use one side for your chickens and the other for garden tools, feed bins, a brooder, or even a small workbench. The added square footage lets you keep everything organized in one place.
Whether you’re raising five hens or a flock of twenty, starting with a shed gives you the freedom to create a setup that grows with your flock.
Building your own custom coop may sound like a big task, but with the right features in mind, it’s totally doable (and even fun).
Here’s what you’ll want to include:
Proper Ventilation: Chickens can overheat easily, and ammonia buildup from droppings is no joke. Add screened windows and gable vents to keep fresh air circulating.
Roosting Bars: Chickens sleep up high, so give them sturdy, comfortable perches off the ground.
Nesting Boxes: Make sure they’re easy to access and spacious enough for egg-laying hens. Aim for one box per 3-4 chickens.
Easy-to-Clean Floors: A smooth, sealed floor makes daily cleanups quicker and prevents moisture from soaking in.
Predator Protection: Reinforce doors and vents with hardware cloth. Choose heavy-duty locks to keep predators out.
Storage Solutions: Add built-in shelves or hooks to keep feed, grit, and cleaning tools organized and within reach.
Want to go the extra mile? These accessories take your custom coop from functional to fantastic:
Automatic Doors: Set a timer or use a light sensor to let your flock in and out, even if you’re sleeping in. It adds convenience and peace of mind, especially during early mornings or bad weather.
Feeding and Watering Stations: Wall-mounted feeders and drinkers keep things tidy and reduce waste. Plus, they help prevent spills and contamination from chickens scratching around.
Lighting: LED lights can help maintain egg production in the winter by extending daylight hours. They also make it easier for you to check in on your flock at night.
Insulation and Heating: If you’re in a colder climate, adding insulation or a small heater keeps your flock cozy and productive all year long. It also helps prevent water from freezing and keeps bedding drier.
With the right add-ons, your coop becomes easier to manage and more comfortable for your flock, so you can spend less time on chores and more time enjoying your chickens.
This is where it gets fun.
Our 3D Configurator makes it easy to visualize and design custom chicken coops from the comfort of your couch. You can adjust the size, layout, doors, windows, colors, and more, all with just a few clicks.
Want to add extra ventilation or build in a storage section? You’ll see it all come to life in real time, so you know exactly what you’re getting before you buy chicken coops.
Here’s how it works:
Once you’re happy with your design, you can save it, share it, or place your order right from the page.
When you build your custom coop with Dakota, you’re getting a solid investment in your flock’s health, your daily convenience, and long-term peace of mind.
Here’s why our sheds are built for backyard chicken success:
Our materials are chosen for longevity. LP® SmartSide® siding resists rot, pests, and harsh weather, while Long Creek Steel’s Tuff Rib Roofing provides protection through every season, from intense summer heat to heavy snow and wind.
Whether you’re housing five hens or thirty, our custom chicken coops come in a wide range of sizes and configurations. Use our 3D Configurator to place nesting boxes, choose door styles, add windows for ventilation, or design a 50/50 split for coop and storage space.
We know that daily coop maintenance can be a hassle, so we build our sheds with features that make cleaning easier. Smooth flooring, wide door access, and ample space mean less bending, less scrubbing, and more time spent enjoying your birds.
Our sheds are built with tight seams, sturdy latches, and high-quality framing, which makes it easier to secure your coop against common backyard predators like raccoons, foxes, and weasels. Reinforce your design with hardware cloth and locking doors for added peace of mind.
You can build your dream coop online in minutes using our 3D Configurator. Pick your size, materials, layout, and features, and preview your coop before you commit.
We’re not just selling a building, we’re helping you create a personalized, high-performing space that supports your flock and simplifies your routine for years to come.
If your current coop isn’t cutting it, or if you’re just getting started, designing your own with our 3D Configurator gives you the flexibility, durability, and space you need to keep your flock happy and healthy.
So go ahead and create custom chicken coops to keep your flock happy and streamline maintenance. Use our 3D Shed Configurator to start designing today.
Want more tips? Download our free guide: “Evaluating Best-Fit Quality Chicken Coops” to get all the info you need before you buy chicken coops.