We worked with Michelle Visser—author and podcast host of Simple Doesn’t Mean Easy—to design a 7×28 Lean-To Combination Coop in New Hampshire that reflects both her values and the realities of raising backyard chickens in New England. Chickens were one of the very first steps in Michelle’s journey toward more intentional living, and for years, her flock lived in a much older coop that had seen better days.
When it became clear that the structure wouldn’t survive another winter, Michelle began searching for a long-term solution. As a result, as Michelle put it, her chickens didn’t just get a new home—they got a “castle.”
Check out the features in this coop below and contact us if you’re interested in a similar coop!
Listen to Michelle Tell Her Story!
Delivering the Coop from PA to NH
From the initial design conversations to final delivery, Michelle described the process as straightforward and personal. After a few phone calls with our team, her coop was built to her exact specifications and delivered from Pennsylvania to her New England farm in just a few weeks.
While she initially worried about how they would transport such a large structure, the chicken coop delivery exceeded expectations. “Not only did they do what they said they were going to do, but they did it with ease,” she said.
The delivery driver even touched up small areas with matching stain upon arrival—a professional touch that Michelle deeply appreciated.
Features of This 7×28 Lean-To Combination Coop
7×12 Coop Area
7×16 Run
Metal Roof
Roosting Bar
Windows
LP Lap Siding
Custom Features of Michelle’s 7×28 Lean-to Combination Coop
1/2″ x 1/2″ Wire Mesh Upgrade
After some bad experiences dealing with predators that could tear through standard wire, upgrading to ½” × ½” wire mesh was an obvious choice. “We’ve had predators get into our coop before,” she shared, “and they actually tore through wire we had around it.”
The tighter, heavier-gauge mesh provides added security without restricting airflow, giving Michelle peace of mind and her flock a safer environment.
1/2″ x 1/2″ Wire Mesh Over Windows
To further protect the flock, Michelle also added ½” × ½” wire mesh over the coop windows. This enables her to keep windows open for ventilation while still preventing pesky predators from entering the coop area. Given her past experiences, this added protection was a smart way to close potential entry points and reinforce the coop’s overall security without sacrificing comfort inside.
Epoxy Floor
“I’m not going to lie—I’ve never enjoyed cleaning a chicken coop,” Michelle said. “But with the epoxy floor, it’s so much easier.”
This upgrade supports better hygiene inside the coop while saving time and effort, making routine maintenance far more manageable.
Roll Away Nesting Box
Designed so eggs roll out of reach once laid, roll away nesting boxes help prevent broken eggs, egg-eating habits, and unwanted broodiness. “If a hen decides she wants to eat an egg or go broody, she can’t,” Michelle explained, “because the eggs are rolled away and safe.” For her, it’s a simple way to keep egg collection clean and consistent.
7×28 Lean-to Combination Coop in NH Gallery
Tell Your Story
If you have purchased a chicken coop from The Hen House Collection or one of our Authorized Dealers, please contact us and let us tell your chicken coop story. We love getting feedback from users of our chicken coops.
