The situation of no contemporary and systematic study on the origin of ecological design ideals for ancient villages in Huizhou has hinders the development and adoption of those design ideas to some extent. Based on case studies and relevant literatures, we elaborate on the development of ecological design ideas for Huizhou ancient villages from the aspects of ecological culture, design and creation. Our study shows that the ecological culture of Huizhou ancient villages is influenced by ancient Chinese philosophy, which stresses the balance between Yin and Yang, the unity between heaven and man, and the harmony between man and nature; the idea of ecological design is influenced by local resources and environment and focuses on design in light of local conditions and building in light of local material; the idea of ecological creation is influenced by traditional idea and practical experience and embodies the notions of green, environmental protection and economy on resources, which becomes gradually procedural, normalized and effective. The ancient Huizhou village design idea can provide beneficial guidelines for development of a local ecological design theory system, for solutions to present regional ecological problems, for urban planning and for better development of rural villages.