By Audrey HayesUpdated November 2026
Multi unit birdhouse plans let you build one structure that holds several nesting pairs at once, which is the practical choice for swallows, martins, and some cavity nesters that prefer to nest near each other. If you are trying to choose between printed plan sets, the right pick depends on how many birds you want to host, how much cutting and joinery you are willing to do, and whether the plans cover more than one species. The three options below were compared on scope of instruction, clarity of cut lists, range of species covered, and the amount of build detail each set provides, with owner feedback patterns in mind.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallSimple Birdhouse Plans – Foolproof InstructionsView on Amazon - 2
Best for multi-species projectsMaking Bird-Friendly Birdhouses (Fox Chapel Publishing)View on Amazon - 3
Best budget pickProject Paper Plan to Build 27 Birdhouses and FeedersView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Simple Birdhouse Plans – Foolproof Instructions | Builders who want clear, step-by-step multi-chamber construction | Step-by-step instructions for functional nest boxes that attract birds year-round |
| Making Bird-Friendly Birdhouses (Fox Chapel Publishing) | Builders hosting several species on one property | Plans for 15 specific birds plus bat houses and a winter roost |
| Project Paper Plan to Build 27 Birdhouses and Feeders | Builders who want a wide range of designs from one plan set | 27 separate builds in one plan package, materials not included |
Simple Birdhouse Plans – Foolproof Instructions
Simple Birdhouse Plans— Foolproof Instructions: The Step-by-Step Guide for Building Functional, Beautiful Nest Boxes That Attract Birds All Year Long
Best for: Builders who want clear, step-by-step multi-chamber construction
This is a good fit for a first-time builder who wants the process spelled out in order, with fewer assumptions about prior experience. It suits anyone planning a single larger structure with multiple compartments rather than a collection of different species designs.
Key specs
- Format: step-by-step build instructions for nest boxes
- Focus: functional, attractive construction intended to draw birds across the year
Pros
- Instructions are sequenced for beginners who want to follow along without guesswork
- Emphasis on functional entrances and structure rather than decoration alone
- Useful as a single reference when planning one larger, multi-room build
Cons
- Scope is narrower than a multi-species collection, so you may need additional plans for other birds
- Experienced builders may want more detailed cut lists than a beginner-oriented guide provides
Bottom line: Pick this if you want a clear, dependable build guide for a single multi-unit project and you are comfortable working from step-by-step instructions.
Making Bird-Friendly Birdhouses (Fox Chapel Publishing)
Making Bird-Friendly Birdhouses: Instructions and Plans for 15 Specific Birds, Including Bluebirds, Wrens, Robins & Owls (Fox Chapel Publishing) Create Nest Boxes, Bat Houses, a Winter Roost, and More
Best for: Builders hosting several species on one property
This book covers instructions for a wide range of birds, plus bat houses and a winter roost. It suits someone who wants to attract more than one kind of bird and prefers having multiple designs in one reference rather than buying separate plans.
Key specs
- Covers instructions and plans for 15 specific birds
- Includes nest boxes, bat houses, and a winter roost
Pros
- Broad species coverage in one volume, useful for mixed-habitat properties
- Includes non-bird structures such as bat houses that broaden the project range
- Designs are organized by species, making it easy to match a plan to a target bird
Cons
- Breadth means individual multi-unit designs may get less depth than a dedicated colony plan
- Builders focused only on one large colony structure may find much of the content unused
Bottom line: Choose this if you want one reference covering many species and structure types, rather than a single multi-unit design.
Project Paper Plan to Build 27 Birdhouses and Feeders
Project Paper Plan to Build 27 Birdhouses and Feeders – Material Not Included
Best for: Builders who want a wide range of designs from one plan set
This plan package offers a large number of birdhouse and feeder designs. It is best for a builder who wants variety and is willing to select and adapt designs, including any multi-unit layouts, from a broad set of options.
Key specs
- Includes plans for 27 birdhouses and feeders
- Materials are not included with the plan set
Pros
- Large number of designs in a single package, good for comparing layouts
- Covers feeders as well as houses, useful for a complete backyard setup
- Materials are not bundled, so you can source lumber to suit your budget and location
Cons
- Breadth can mean each design gets less explanatory detail than a single focused guide
- Because materials are excluded, you will need to plan your own lumber list and hardware
Bottom line: A solid option for a builder who wants many designs to choose from and enjoys adapting plans to fit their own materials.
Buying Guide
Compartment count and spacing
Multi-unit designs typically separate nesting chambers with partitions and give each unit its own entrance. Check whether the plan specifies unit size, entrance diameter for your target species, and spacing between units. Colonial birds like swallows and martins need separation, while some species tolerate closer spacing. Verify the entrance hole size against the species you want before you cut.
Good picks for this: Simple Birdhouse Plans – Foolproof Instructions, Making Bird-Friendly Birdhouses (Fox Chapel Publishing)
Species coverage
Decide whether you want one colony structure or a set of designs for several species. A plan built around a single species will usually give more precise dimensions for that bird. A broader guide is more useful if you are planning a varied backyard habitat.
Good picks for this: Making Bird-Friendly Birdhouses (Fox Chapel Publishing), Project Paper Plan to Build 27 Birdhouses and Feeders
Cut list clarity
A usable plan gives dimensions for every part, including panel thickness, partition sizes, and roof pitch. Look for a clear cut list with quantities, not just a drawing. Ambiguous dimensions are the most common source of misfit parts in multi-unit builds, where small errors repeat across several compartments.
Good picks for this: Simple Birdhouse Plans – Foolproof Instructions, Project Paper Plan to Build 27 Birdhouses and Feeders
Material and wall thickness
Wood thickness affects insulation, durability, and how well the structure holds fasteners. Many nest box guides call for untreated lumber around 3/4 inch thick, and softwoods such as cedar or pine are common choices because they resist weathering. Avoid pressure-treated lumber inside nesting chambers. Confirm the material recommendations in any plan before buying.
Good picks for this: Making Bird-Friendly Birdhouses (Fox Chapel Publishing), Simple Birdhouse Plans – Foolproof Instructions
Ventilation and drainage
Multi-unit houses concentrate moisture and heat. Plans should include ventilation gaps near the roof and drainage holes in the floor of each chamber. Check that the design includes these features and that the instructions explain where to place them.
Good picks for this: Simple Birdhouse Plans – Foolproof Instructions
Mounting and access for cleaning
Plan for a way to open the structure each season to clean out old nesting material and check for pests. Hinged roofs or removable panels make this easier. Mounting height and pole design matter too; a poorly mounted colony house is harder to clean and more exposed to predators.
Good picks for this: Project Paper Plan to Build 27 Birdhouses and Feeders, Making Bird-Friendly Birdhouses (Fox Chapel Publishing)
Skill level and tools
Multi-unit builds involve more cuts and joints than single-room houses. Confirm that the plan’s required tools match what you own. A drill, a jigsaw or hand saw, and a square cover most basic projects, but accurate cutting of partitions benefits from a miter or table saw. If you are new to woodworking, read the full instructions before buying materials.
Good picks for this: Simple Birdhouse Plans – Foolproof Instructions
FAQ
What is a multi-unit birdhouse?
A multi-unit birdhouse is a single structure divided into several separate nesting chambers, each with its own entrance. It is designed to host multiple nesting pairs of the same species, most often colonial birds such as purple martins and swallows.
Which birds use multi-unit houses?
Purple martins are the best-known example and typically use large multi-compartment houses. Some swallows and other colonial species may also use multi-unit structures. Always check the species requirements for entrance size and spacing before building.
How far apart should compartments be?
Spacing depends on the species. Many colonial birds need separate chambers with partitions and individual entrances, but the exact spacing varies. Follow the dimensions in your chosen plan and verify them against species guidance from a reliable source.
What wood is best for multi-unit birdhouse plans?
Untreated softwoods such as cedar or pine are commonly recommended because they weather well and are safe for nesting birds. Avoid pressure-treated wood and paints or finishes inside the chambers.
Do I need special tools to build one?
Most builds require a saw for accurate cuts, a drill with bits for entrance holes and fasteners, and a square for alignment. A table saw or miter saw makes partition cuts more precise but is not strictly required.
How do I keep a multi-unit house clean?
Open the structure at the end of the nesting season, remove old nesting material, and check for parasites or damage. Designs with hinged roofs or removable panels make this much easier.
Where should I mount a multi-unit birdhouse?
Mount it in an open area away from dense trees, with a clear flight path and protection from predators. Mounting height and pole design should allow safe access for cleaning. Local wildlife agencies can advise on placement for your region.
Conclusion
For a single, clearly documented multi-unit build with beginner-friendly instructions, Simple Birdhouse Plans – Foolproof Instructions is the most direct choice. Builders hosting several species on one property will get more from Making Bird-Friendly Birdhouses (Fox Chapel Publishing), which covers many birds and structure types in one reference. If you want the widest range of designs and plan to source your own materials, Project Paper Plan to Build 27 Birdhouses and Feeders gives you the most options. Match the plan to your target species and build skill, and confirm entrance sizes and spacing before you cut.
Sources
- Federal guidance on migratory bird nesting habitat and nest box considerations (fws.gov)
- Cornell Lab nest box guidance, including entrance sizes and species-specific requirements
- Consumer safety information relevant to wood finishes and treated lumber use (cpsc.gov)
Related reading
- Wren Birdhouse Plans Free: Build a Cedar House in One Weekend
- Wine Cork Birdhouse Plans: A Step-by-Step Build for Beginners
- Western Bluebird Birdhouse Plans: Build a Nest Box in One Afternoon
- Tree Swallow Birdhouse Plans: A Step-by-Step Build Guide
About Audrey Hayes
Audrey Hayes is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our woodworking guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
