How to turn a chicken run into a functional garden bench
In short: You don't have to choose between backyard utility and aesthetic beauty. By using curved steel mesh and salvaged timber, you can build a multi-use tunnel that serves as an extension for your poultry while providing a sturdy seat for your own relaxation.
The project involves constructing a curved steel mesh tunnel designed to expand a chicken run in a small backyard setting. The primary structural component is 50mm x 50mm square mesh, cut into two strips measuring approximately 2.9 meters long and 700mm high. To ensure the structure remains stable while allowing for specific height requirements, about 300mm of the mesh is buried underground, resulting in a standard sitting height of roughly 400mm.
Durability and protection are integrated into the design through specific material treatments. While the upper sections are allowed to rust naturally for several weeks before being sealed, the underground portions are galvanized to prevent corrosion. For added security against predators like foxes, the base is braced with smaller mesh pieces using a 'C' clip fencing tool and filled with compacted rocks before backfilling with soil and mulch.
The most complex engineering occurs at the top of the tunnel. To create a curved roof from straight timber, salvaged macrocarpa sleepers are cut into 500mm lengths and shaped into wedges using cardboard templates. These pieces are screwed to the mesh with 30mm washers. Every third piece is hinged to provide easy access to the interior space. This design effectively sections off a garden area for lush planting—including native flax, everlastings, fan-flowers, and bulbine lilies—while creating a functional outdoor seat.
This project highlights the intersection of creative problem-solving and practical gardening. It demonstrates how collaborative DIY efforts can transform mundane agricultural needs into sophisticated landscape features that maximize small spaces.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: How to build a tunnel for your chickens | DIY Garden Projects | Gardening Australia
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/gardening-how-to-build-a-tunnel-for-your-chickens-diy-garden-projects-.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in Gardening · Latest · A–Z · All topics
