###### Abstract  
This study introduces a novel approach for the multi-model analysis of complex water distribution networks (WDNs). The research focuses on designing and optimizing various WDN configurations while adhering to hydraulic constraints. Several key parameters and criteria are considered to achieve an efficient design. Additionally, different network layouts are evaluated, including looped and non-looped systems with varying numbers of reservoirs. Next, an analytical approach is developed to optimize the proposed WDNs, taking into account pipe type, length, and diameter, as well as nodal demands, elevations, pressure losses, and water velocities. Cost analysis reveals that a single-reservoir, non-looped WDN has the lowest cost (USD 26,892), while a two-reservoir, looped WDN has the highest (USD 30,861). The design inflows vary linearly, ranging from 0.0212 to 0.205 m\({}^{3}\)/s for a 0.3 m pipe diameter and from 0.0589 to 0.5694 m\({}^{3}\)/s for a 0.5 m pipe diameter. Further, a new approach based on the Coral Reef Algorithm (CRA) is developed and implemented to improve the technical and economic viability of the designed WDNs. The CRA effectively showcases its capacity to iteratively enhance network design by reducing overall costs significantly. Notably, higher demand multipliers yield even more efficient solutions, suggesting the algorithm's adaptability to varying demand scenarios. v 2025 5 March 2025 11 March 2025 13 March 2025 11 March 2025 15 3126 10.1201 10. [PERSON] et al. [8] addressed pipe failure issues in WDNs using \"boosted decision trees\", showing that their model serves as a viable alternative to traditional statistical models. [PERSON] et al. [9] combined remote sensing with Genetic Algorithm (GA) optimization to explore water management solutions, developing a model that significantly enhanced regional crop productivity. [PERSON] and [PERSON] [10] optimized WDN design using the Shuffled Frog Leaping Algorithm, resulting in optimal pipe sizes and demonstrating the flexibility of their method for designing pumps or other network components. [PERSON] et al. [2] proposed a multi-objective moth-flame algorithm model for optimizing water resource utilization in multi-reservoir systems, successfully achieving a set of Pareto solutions that balance trade-offs among various components. [PERSON] et al. [5] combined GA with Integer-Linear Programming (ILP) to optimize WDNs, finding their model computationally efficient. [PERSON] and [PERSON] [11] introduced a hybrid GA for designing WDNs, which provided more economically viable designs compared with non-heuristic approaches. [PERSON] et al. [12] identified that WDNs often suffer from water leakages and proposed replacing Pressure Reducing Valves (PRVs) with Pumps as Turbines (PaTs), selecting optimal PaT configurations through their approach. [PERSON] et al. [13] noted that many WDNs are in a deteriorated state, increasing vulnerability to natural and anthropogenic hazards. They introduced a new [PERSON] alongside an optimization framework aimed at enhancing the resilience of WDNs, demonstrating an increase in network resilience of nearly 20%. [PERSON] et al. [14] discussed real-time control of WDNs, emphasizing objectives such as service pressure regulation and energy production. The application of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is also crucial for optimizing WDNs. In their study, [PERSON] et al. [15] developed a CFD-based approach to analyze and enhance fluid flow characteristics in hydraulic systems, which can be adapted for WDN optimization. By employing numerical simulations grounded in Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations in three-dimensional space, the authors examined the effects of angular fitting connections on fluid dynamics, revealing complex hydrodynamic phenomena at local resistances. These phenomena are essential for accurately characterizing both linear and local resistances, significantly impacting the overall efficiency of fluid transport systems.