After you know how big and where it is going to be located, and then deciding if you are going to have wheels on it would be helpful. In my opinion I like small fixed structures. The next phase is deciding what features and how it is going to look. The features are pretty much the same for all with nesting areas and perking areas. I recommend that the feeding and watering be done outside the chicken coop.

As for the design of the outside, as the creator you can let your imagination run wild or just use what is offered. I have seen the back of old panel trucks used. That one was pretty unique. There are A frames, old sheds with flat, slanted or beveled roofs. Some look like replicas of the main house. If you prefer one styled in as an old fort, it will look cool. There are even little red barns out there. I even say one that resembled a little town were each hen got her own house in a small village. The most main thing to remember is that the appearance is for you the farmer. Your hens only care about being feed, staying safe as well as having a clean dry place to nest and sleep.

When deciding on the chicken coop remember various types of chickens require different amounts of room. Bantam's need 1 sq ft inside and 4 sq ft outside, laying hens need 1.5 sq ft inside and 8 sq ft outside and large chickens need 2 sq ft inside and 10 sq ft outside.

No matter what chicken coop designs are looked at just pick the one that is right for your needs and situation.