Sherpa Blue
General Information about Sherpa Blue
The hex color #004649, also known as Sherpa Blue, is a dark, slightly desaturated shade of cyan-blue. It is a color often associated with qualities like calmness, stability, and trust, making it a popular choice in various design applications. The color is composed of 0% red, 27.5% green, and 28.6% blue. In the RGB color space, this equates to (0, 70, 73). Its CMYK values are 100% cyan, 4% magenta, 0% yellow, and 71% black. This color can evoke a sense of professionalism and sophistication, making it suitable for corporate branding, web design, and even interior decorating. The name 'Sherpa Blue' suggests a connection to the rugged, dependable nature of the Sherpa people, further reinforcing its associations with reliability and resilience.
The hex color #004649, also known as Sherpa Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used for text or interactive elements. Its low luminance value means that it requires careful pairing with contrasting colors to ensure readability and usability. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments. When using #004649 for text, it is essential to use a light-colored background to achieve a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. For graphical elements and user interface components, a contrast ratio of at least 3:1 is recommended. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance. If adequate contrast cannot be achieved, it is better to consider alternative, lighter colors that offer better visibility. Proper attention to color contrast ensures inclusivity and enhances the user experience for everyone.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against dark backgrounds, enhancing readability.
- #808080
A neutral gray that offers a safe and accessible alternative for text and background pairings.
- #a0d6b4
A paler teal which is easier on the eyes and provides a gentler feel when you don't need a high contrast.
Applications
Website Headers and Footers
Sherpa Blue (#004649) can be effectively used in website headers and footers to create a professional and calming aesthetic. Its deep blue hue is reminiscent of trust and stability, making it ideal for branding and establishing a sense of reliability. When incorporating it into a website's design, consider using it sparingly as an accent color to avoid overwhelming users. Pair it with lighter shades of gray or white to maintain balance and readability. Ensure interactive elements, such as buttons and links, have sufficient contrast to remain accessible. The color can also be used for icons and other visual elements to add a touch of sophistication without being too distracting.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, Sherpa Blue can create a serene and sophisticated atmosphere, particularly in living rooms and bedrooms. It serves as an excellent choice for accent walls, upholstery, or decorative accessories like cushions and throws. To balance the depth of the color, pair it with lighter neutrals such as beige, cream, or light gray. Metallic accents, such as gold or copper, can add a touch of elegance. Natural elements like wooden furniture or indoor plants can also complement the color, creating a harmonious and inviting space. Consider using it in rooms with ample natural light to fully appreciate its depth and richness.
Data Visualizations
Sherpa Blue can be incorporated into data visualizations to represent specific categories or highlight key insights. Its distinct hue helps differentiate data points and enhances the overall clarity of the visualization. Ensure that you maintain sufficient contrast between the blue and other colors used in the chart to improve readability and avoid visual clutter. Consider using variations of Sherpa Blue or complementary colors to create a cohesive and informative visual representation. Use sparingly to avoid a monotonous or confusing representation, but in a strategic way to clearly highlight key findings.