My run in horse stalls pasture access is set up similar so I understood. Planned it so on the rare occasions I have to get machinery back there, always to deal with the mud, I can just close two gates together and chain them. I only need to do this occasionally so chain is good enough, no...
The gate idea sounds cool. Maybe you could have rotation options to grow them some forage. Having an extra coop could never be a bad idea. Just think of what you could put in there! I shouldn't encourage anyone to get just one more bird, sorry.
I have 19 in about 10 x 20, seems comfortable, maybe a few more if I can find some Croad Langshans. My brooder does take up some floor space though. They sleep on top so it's not totally wasted but still hogs nearly 3 feet during the day.
Your brooder is good in that it's easy to get to for you. I'm elbow crawling into my near floor level one to reach in. Yet I can set it up so they can hide in there during integration. I'll be interested to hear the consensus about what's best.
Good idea, I think that might be the best way. Although I have a pullet that would be too mentally dull to move.
Or a conveyer belt system, crank the handle from the outside. Ahhh, maybe scavenge a register belt from a grocery store?
Will there be computer automated feeders? How about a tinkered up roomba that vacuums poop?
Can't imagine how much fun you'll have with that much space!