Building a coop under my back deck?

[chuckschicks]

I've been seriously considering building my first coop under my deck, but have a few concerns:
1. No sunshine on the birds. Is this a problem? I plan to have a run, but even that will be in shade.
2. Smell. Should I be concerned with possible odor, especially when we have guests and we "retire to the veranda."
I see having plenty of ventilation, and half of the building is already there so my labor and materials are cut in half right off the bat.
Any comments or concerns or questions are welcomed. Thanks, folks.

Chuck

 

[4 the Birds]

Under the deck would not be ideal for sure. How large is your yard? Out away from the house and in the sun would be much better. Shade is great to keep things cool but without direct sun, things can stay damp, moldy, and wet conditions create smell. If you do decide to build under the deck then I would add some type of roofing under the deck so that rain water would not be dripping through the deck and in the run.

 

[chfite]

Under the deck would still require a roof to keep the chickens and the litter dry.

It would provide beneficial shade to deal with the major problem of heat.

Adequate ventilation would resolve any problems with smell that aren't addressed by cleaning.

Chris

 

[chuckschicks]

I should add that I have to deal with 90+ degree Georgia summers, so under the deck temps are usually consistently cooler. A roof is understood, as is regular cleaning.
My yard is plenty big, but I have plenty of unused space under the deck....
Any other ideas or comments?
Thanks to both who have responded.