Advice and suggestions for Converting Playhouse

[dashonna82]

I want to turn this old playhouse into a coop for my 3 chicks to move into. I am in need of advice and suggestions. I am worried that the coop won't be off the ground. Is that a deal breaker? Any suggestions on renovations are welcome. Thanks!

 

[Folly's place]

It looks great! If it's not on a concrete foundation, plan to rat proof the base with hardware cloth or something. Add windows and openings for ventilation, covered in hardware cloth. Think Ft. Knox, with ventilation. I'd add an outside fenced run, covered with something to keep hawks out. Add shrubs or a shade tree on the south side for summer. Then maybe make it cute! Mary

 

[alica31]

This will be such a cute chicken house!
Now I want to convert my old studio...it can be updated in a similar fashion.
Thanks!

 

[ButtersMama]

Yes, you'll need to attach hardware wire to the bottom to protect from predators. You ask for suggestions??
I would use the side with the window to attach a run. You can remove the window and make a ramp for the chickens to exit to go into the run and return into the coop at night. Having an aluminum, plastic or shingled roof is nice for keeping the run fairly dry. I put visqueen in the winter on the sides of the run to keep snow, wind and wet out. You will need a roost inside the coop. Rig up a trap door with a rope so you can open/close in morning and evening. Use the large door for yourself to collect eggs, cleaning and replenish food/water. You can use milk crates inside for the nesting boxes or build an egg box that hangs on the outside of the coop. You can collect eggs without going inside.
I like to keep my water in run and food inside of coop for cleanliness.