When it comes to dreaming up her perfect coop, Kate Richards—avid gardener, homegrown cocktail crafter, and wrangler of chickens—always starts with function before deciding on design details. She determines the size of the run, the number of nesting box, the roosting area, and the storage location before putting together the layout. Kate adds extra details and décor elements to her utilitarian layout that can seem over-the-top. She’s known for using unexpected paint colors, patterned wallpaper, and gingerbread trim that make the entire space more aesthetically interesting while fitting in with her own home’s style and architecture.
© Kate E. Richards/drinkingwithchickens.com
Kate shares her colorful chicken coop with us and six features to consider when enhancing the functionality of your chic feathered friend’s home.
1. Ventilation
© Kate E. Richards/drinkingwithchickens.com
It is vital that you provide your birds with proper ventilation in their coops. Droppings can quickly pollute the air, especially if it’s a small enclosed area. While birds must be kept draft-free in the winter, it is also important to regulate temperature.
