Blue Charcoal
General Information about #040B17
The hexadecimal color code #040B17 represents a very dark shade of blue, often referred to as 'Blue Charcoal'. It is composed of 1.57% red, 4.31% green, and 9.02% blue. In the RGB color model, it is defined as (4, 11, 23). This color is a subdued, almost black, shade, creating a sense of depth and sophistication. Due to its low luminance, it is generally used in situations where a subtle and understated background is desired, or as an accent color to provide contrast to brighter elements. Understanding the composition and properties of such a color is important in graphic design and other creative fields where precise color selection is crucial.
The hex color #040B17, a deep shade of blue charcoal, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its low luminance value results in very poor contrast against standard white backgrounds, making text and interactive elements difficult to perceive for users with visual impairments. Individuals with low vision, color blindness, or general visual fatigue will struggle to distinguish content using this color. To ensure accessibility, it's crucial to use a very light color for text or interactive elements placed on a #040B17 background. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text is recommended, as defined by WCAG guidelines. Consider using online contrast checker tools to verify compliance. Avoid using this color for essential visual information without sufficient contrast.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e2736
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #2c333a
A dark gray that offers improved readability compared to the deep blue charcoal.
- #001f3f
A more saturated blue, closer to the primary blue tones, allowing for a wider choice of matching colors.
Applications
Website Background
This deep, muted color can serve as a sophisticated background in web design, particularly for websites aiming for a sleek, professional look. It creates a sense of depth and can effectively highlight brighter elements on the page. Ideal for technology, finance, or design portfolios where a sense of understated elegance is desired. However, ensure sufficient contrast with text and interactive elements to maintain usability.
Mobile App UI
Blue charcoal can be used in mobile app design to create a calming and professional user interface. Use it sparingly for backgrounds or key UI elements to convey sophistication. It pairs well with lighter accent colors for buttons and icons. The key is to balance aesthetics with user experience by ensuring readability and visual clarity, avoiding eye strain caused by a too dark interface.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #040B17 can be used as an accent wall color or for furniture pieces to create a moody, atmospheric space. It works well in bedrooms or living rooms, providing a sense of calm and relaxation. To prevent the room from feeling too dark, pair it with lighter colors, such as whites, creams, or light grays, and introduce metallic accents for a touch of elegance. Incorporate natural light and complementary textures to add depth and visual interest to the space.