thank you, and yes we are planning on using the hardware cloth, I know we have foxes and raccoons in the area and don't want to lose any birds! I also just bought an automatic door from chicken doors.com. We are also planning on insulating the coop and it will be solar powered with lights. If you are going to do something might as well do it right!
Sounds like you are doing it right! Post some pics for us when you are finished!