Abstarct: Sustainable tourism development is recognized as an effective approach for strengthening local economies while safeguarding natural resources. In this context, Lake Zarivar in Marivan, endowed with significant natural values, rich biodiversity, and the cultural capacities of Kurdistan, holds substantial potential for the development of ecotourism. However, challenges such as seasonal tourism pressure, insufficient accommodation infrastructure, environmental pollution, traffic congestion, and fragmented governance threaten the sustainability of this landscape. The present study aims to propose a design-oriented model for a tourism–recreational complex in the Zarivar area and seeks to address the following research question: how can spatial organization strategies establish a balance between tourism development and ecological conservation? The research adopts a descxriptive–analytical methodology baxsed on literature review, analysis of the Marivan detailed urban plan, field studies, and semi-structured interviews with experts. The findings indicate that the southeastern zone of the lake, due to its strategic accessibility, favorable landscape conditions, and proximity to major transportation corridors, constitutes an optimal location for the proposed complex. The final design is structured around a “multi-nodal interconnected system” supported by a central pedestrian spine, with vehicular circulation largely relocated to the periphery. The main components include a hotel, two commercial complexes, an eco-oriented tourist village constructed with earthen structures, and a three-part aquatic complex designed to promote year-round tourism. The results demonstrate that through pedestrian-oriented planning, provision of independent parking facilities, enhancement of public transportation access, climate-responsive architectural strategies, and active participation of local communities, a coherent frxamework for sustainable tourism development in Zarivar can be established. Furthermore, the study recommends the implementation of integrated regional management, the regulation of tourism carrying capacity, and systematic waste management as essential measures for ensuring long-term sustainability.