Black Bean
General Information about Black Bean (#031811)
The hex color #031811, also known as Black Bean, is a very dark shade of green, almost appearing black to the naked eye. It belongs to the family of near-black colors with subtle green undertones. In the RGB color model, it consists of 1.18% red, 9.41% green, and 6.67% blue. Its primary use is in situations where a very dark color is desired, but a slightly softer, more organic feel than pure black is preferred. It finds application in areas where subtle color variations are important for creating depth or nuance. However, due to its darkness, its use should be carefully considered in terms of contrast and readability, especially in designs that require text or graphical elements.
The color #031811, also known as Black Bean, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Its extremely low luminance results in very poor contrast against virtually any background, especially white. This makes text rendered in #031811 difficult or impossible for users with visual impairments to read, including those with low vision or color blindness. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is essential for readability. To ensure accessibility, it's crucial to pair #031811 with very light colors or consider alternative, lighter shades with a higher luminance value. Tools like contrast checkers can help determine if a color combination meets accessibility standards. Avoid using this color for essential elements like text, important icons, or interactive components without thorough testing and adjustments for accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #132821
A slightly lighter shade of green can provide better contrast while retaining a similar aesthetic.
- #232323
A dark gray offers improved readability against light backgrounds compared to the near-black Black Bean.
- #3f3f00
A dark olive green offers a more visible alternative while keeping a natural, muted tone.
Applications
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Black Bean (#031811) can be used sparingly to add depth and sophistication to a space. It works best as an accent color in rooms with ample natural light or in conjunction with lighter, contrasting hues. Consider using it for small furniture pieces, decorative accents like cushions or throws, or as a wall color in a powder room. To avoid making a space feel too dark or enclosed, pair Black Bean with warm whites, creams, or light grays. Metallic accents like gold or brass can also enhance its richness. Proper lighting is crucial to prevent the color from appearing flat and lifeless.
Fashion Accent
In fashion, Black Bean can serve as a unique alternative to traditional black, offering a slightly softer and more organic feel. It's a versatile color for creating understated and elegant looks. Consider using it for outerwear, such as a trench coat or a knitted cardigan, or for accessories like scarves and hats. When pairing Black Bean with other colors, opt for earthy tones like browns, beiges, and rusts for a harmonious palette. It also complements jewel tones like emerald green and sapphire blue. Avoid using it in large quantities close to the face, as its dark nature may not be universally flattering.
Web Development Background
For web development, using #031811 as the primary text color is not advisable due to accessibility concerns. However, it can be incorporated effectively as a background color for banners or graphical elements, provided that the foreground text is a light color that provides sufficient contrast. Ensure that the color contrast ratio meets accessibility guidelines (WCAG 2.0 AA) for text and interactive elements. It can also be used as a secondary color for decorative purposes, such as borders, dividers, or subtle shadows, where readability is not critical. Always test the color combination on different devices and screen sizes to ensure optimal visibility.