Couldn't we ask that about almost any aspect of American life?
Do we really need 3 or 4 bedroom homes, with more than one bathroom? Could we live with less?
Do we need homes that are 1500, 2000, 2500 square feet? Or, could we go back to building homes that are 900 square feet and 3 bedrooms, as was the case in the 50s suburb home (one bedroom for the boys, one for the girls). Or, we could go back to rural Texas where my grandfather grew up as one of 8-10 people (depending on who was living with the family) in a one room home.
Do we really need cars? All of us? Or, could those of us who live in the city abandon the cars and use the bus, even if inconvenient for our schedules (even if it would take me an hour to go where it now takes me 7 minutes)?
How about food? Why should we have chocolate, soda, or even coffee? We could all eat beans, rice, and oatmeal, cabbage, potatoes, etc. and just the minimum of fruit for health.
It's a matter of lifestyle choice. I chose to buy a 50+ year old house, while others might want (no, demand) newer. I chose to buy into an older ethnically/racially mixed neighborhood, instead of practicing "flight" out of such an area. I chose a subcompact, super gas efficient car, where others I work with choose SUV's and higher end cars. I don't eat out more than a few times a year (if that) and almost never go to a fast food restaurant. I don't own a stereo, though I have a record player with a built in radio/cd player (no external speakers). I don't buy / wear a lot of high end makeup. I buy almost all my clothes and household furnishings at thrift shops and garage sales, or occasionally estate sales and auctions.
I happen to choose to spend my money differently. I don't have to feel guilty about it. I cannot personally help every person in the world. That doesn't mean I don't do something, though. It doesn't mean I don't donate money and/or time, or items needed by others. It doesn't mean that I don't open my home up, even, in times of need. Of course, it doesn't mean I do, either. This isn't the place that I talk about this. It really isn't the appropriate place to do so.
Frankly, if building with new materials, it doesn't cost MUCH more to build something nice. All the decor for the home I'm building now was bought at a thrift shop or on clearance -- so not terribly pricey (maybe $30 worth of decor). The building itself cost more, sure. However, mine is INSIDE my house (garage, actually) so I will see it constantly. It's like a piece of furniture, actually.
For those people who live in congested areas, cities, or suburbs, having a nice looking coop can help keep bird keeping on a friendly note with the neighbors. Putting up a coop that looks like it was built with the rejects of a Hooverville is not going to endear the neighbors. There is a lot to be said for being friendly -- or at least on good terms with the neighbors. For those who live in isolated rural areas (and I "did" for many years) it's possible to get by with something that looks less decorative or is much more basic. I know that I, at least, would still want it to look decent, since I'd be seeing it daily.
Also, remember that aesthetics are more important to some of us than others. Though I don't spend much on my wardrobe, I am "very" aware of style. Though I don't spend much on hairdos or makeup, I am "very" aware of making sure that what I do spend is spent wisely on what will do the most good. While I may not have the fanciest aviary going in, I want it to look nice where I can enjoy it. (And, frankly, it cost less than my tv anyway.)