If I were to do a new coop from scratch, I would have 3 sections... (1) the main coop (like a garden shed or closed in area, draft free, other than windows), and have the door opening to (2) a fenced in area (perferably completely enclosed & roofed), so that some can sleep out there if they want and still be safe. and it's for good ventilation. (3) you may not need this. but an additional fenced area to run those loose ones in and not let all the others run back out!! Of course I mainly have guineas, chickens aren't as difficult!!

I haven't built my first coop yet either, but I think this is the way I'm going. I'm not real handy, but this looks doable to me.

Be sure and check out all the idea and plan pages. I'm thinking of replacing my cheapo metal gazebo with one of these, too!

lynn

Here is a link that might be useful: starplate system

Thanks! I checked it out...unfortunately they don't deliver to canada..but I can definately find these type of things here too..I'm so excited for spring!! At a local garden store they have this awsome looking log cabin type of shed,looks interresting...not sure how much though$$$ most likely expensive :)