Let’s be honest—most chicken runs aren’t exactly known for their visual appeal. Wire fencing, patchy ground, a bit of chaos (and maybe a few escape attempts). But if you’re keeping chickens in your backyard, there is a way to make the run look like part of your garden—not just something you plonked next to the compost bin and hoped for the best.
With a few smart layout choices and a touch of garden know-how, you can build a chicken run that’s not just functional, but actually looks lovely—and works with your outdoor space, not against it.
Tuck It Into a Natural Spot
Instead of placing your chicken run right in the middle of the lawn, try blending it into an existing part of your yard. A run alongside a garden fence, behind the shed, or even against the side of your house (yes, people do it!) can make the setup feel more tucked-in and intentional.
If you’re using your chicken coop against the house, make sure there’s good ventilation and access for cleaning. Add a bit of planting along the outer edge—think lavender, rosemary, or even some tall grasses to soften the look and give your hens a bit of shade too.
Use Materials That Match Your Garden
This is a game-changer. Instead of using mismatched wire or leftover boards, try building your chicken run frame out of wood that matches your fence or raised beds. Use black-coated wire instead of silver for a cleaner look, and paint the coop in a colour that matches your shed, garden furniture, or house trim.
Want that sweet little English chicken coop vibe? Go with soft whites, sage green, or light grey for the frame and add a tiny roof over the entry. A climbing plant on the side (like jasmine or starflower) instantly makes the area feel more decorative than utilitarian.
Design for Daily Use—But Keep It Cute
This is still a chicken run, after all—so it needs to be easy to clean, safe, and secure. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be easy on the eyes. A little gravel or stepping stone path to the coop helps define the area and makes egg collection less of a soggy adventure.
Consider adding a low fence or planter box around the front to visually separate it from the rest of the yard. If you’re working on a chicken run in the garden itself, you can build a longer, narrow design that follows your garden path—like a chicken run border.
And if you’re going full DIY, you can even add some decorative touches: a mini pergola-style entrance, a chicken name sign (yes, we’ve all done it), or a small flower pot attached to the side. A run can be safe, simple, and still bring a bit of charm to your backyard.