We started by measuring out and trenching right next to the tool shed. This would be the ideal place to build the coop and run, as it was within viewing distance from the back windows of the house. The footprint ended up being around 12' x 14'. We dug about 10" into hard Texas black clay to make room for the cinder blocks that would go in for the foundation. Notice that we intentionally left the oak tree running right through the middle of the run area.