Ecoworks
Neighbourhood Refill Station 2.0
Ecoworks x DesignSingapore Council
2026
What does it take to make refill a habit?
Developed in collaboration with EcoWorks and supported by the Good Design Research initiative by DesignSingapore Council, this project explores how design can encourage long-term refill behaviours in everyday life.
While refill systems have the potential to reduce packaging waste, adoption remains a challenge. Many consumers still find it easier to purchase new products than to change existing habits.
This project goes beyond designing a refill bottle.
It explores how design can encourage long-term refill behaviours by understanding the barriers, motivations, and everyday realities that shape consumer choices.
Through multiple rounds of user testing and co-creation sessions with residents across Singapore, conducted in partnership with Residents' Networks and supported by MP Ms Poh Li San and MP Mr Foo Cexiang, we gathered insights into both the functional and emotional factors that influence refill adoption.
Grounded in user feedback, behavioural observations, and product trend research, the project seeks to create a refill experience that is intuitive, desirable, and trusted—making sustainable habits easier to adopt and sustain in everyday life.
User Journey
Explored how users interact with refill systems before, during, and after refilling, identifying everyday challenges and opportunities.
Designing for behaviour change starts with listening.
Through multiple rounds of user testings, we worked closely with residents across Singapore to understand how people perceive refill systems, sustainable consumption, and long-term product ownership.
Initial Ideation Sketches
Initial ideation sketches exploring form, function, and user interaction.
User Testing
Conducted user testing with residential communities to gather insights, feedback, and opportunities for design refinement.
One recurring challenge was refill confidence. Users shared concerns about spills, bottle alignment, and the effort required to accurately position bottles beneath the nozzle.
In response, we designed an integrated funnel that makes the bottle's refill purpose immediately recognisable while providing greater confidence during refilling.
To further reduce the need for precise manual aiming, the bottle and machine were designed as a complementary system, featuring matching alignment cues that help guide bottle positioning naturally.
Together, these interventions reduce cognitive effort during refilling, creating a more intuitive and trustworthy experience for both first-time and returning users.
CMF
Evaluated CMF directions with users, identifying colour preferences that strengthen product appeal and support sustained reuse.
Our findings revealed that functionality alone is not enough. While usability remains essential, people also consider aesthetics, perceived value, and emotional connection when deciding whether a product deserves a place in their homes.
Rather than being hidden away in a cabinet, a refill bottle designed for long-term use should feel worthy of display—reflecting both personal taste and a commitment to more sustainable habits.
Positive User Adoption
Designed around user needs and preferences, the EcoWorks refill bottle was well received, with most participants indicating they would use it in their daily routines.
