Blue Charcoal
General Information about Blue Charcoal
The hex color #041118, also known as Blue Charcoal, is a very dark shade of blue with slight gray undertones. It belongs to the blue-green color family, characterized by its low saturation and darkness. In the RGB color model, it consists of 4/255 red, 17/255 green, and 24/255 blue. When represented in CMYK, its approximate values are 83% cyan, 29% magenta, 0% yellow, and 91% black. This color is often associated with feelings of calmness, stability, and sophistication. Its dark nature makes it suitable for creating a sense of depth and seriousness, while the blue undertones add a touch of tranquility. It's commonly used in designs where a subtle, understated elegance is desired.
The hex color #041118, also known as Blue Charcoal, presents several accessibility considerations for web developers. Its extremely dark nature results in very low contrast against standard light backgrounds, which can pose significant challenges for users with visual impairments. Ensuring sufficient contrast is crucial for readability and usability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal text and 3:1 for large text. This color will likely fail these criteria against common background colors like white or light gray. Developers should use contrast checking tools to verify compliance and consider pairing it with much lighter text colors to meet accessibility standards. It's also important to consider users with color blindness, who may struggle to distinguish between subtle shades. Therefore, relying solely on color to convey information should be avoided. Providing alternative cues, such as text labels or icons, can improve accessibility for all users. Thoughtful consideration of these factors will ensure a more inclusive and user-friendly web experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #14212b
A slightly lighter shade of blue can provide better contrast against light backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #212529
A dark gray offers a neutral alternative that can be paired with brighter accent colors for improved visibility.
- #004445
This dark teal provides a richer alternative with slightly more vibrancy.
Applications
Professional Website Design
Blue Charcoal's sophisticated and muted tone makes it ideal for creating elegant and professional websites. It can be used for website headers, navigation bars, and footers to establish a sense of authority and trustworthiness. Using it as a primary background color paired with light-colored text creates a visually appealing and accessible design, ensuring a seamless user experience. The dark tone evokes feelings of calmness and serenity, making it suitable for websites related to finance, technology, or consulting where a sense of reliability is paramount.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Blue Charcoal can be used as a wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a cozy and relaxing atmosphere. It pairs well with warm-toned furniture and metallic accents, such as gold or copper, to add a touch of luxury. The color's depth and richness can enhance the perceived size of a room, making it feel more spacious and inviting. Incorporating natural elements like wooden furniture or indoor plants can further complement the color's organic feel, creating a harmonious living space.
Fashion Design
Blue Charcoal can be incorporated in fashion to create sophisticated and understated looks. It can be used for suits, dresses, or outerwear to evoke a sense of elegance and professionalism. Pairing it with lighter colors or metallic accessories can create a balanced and visually appealing outfit. The color's versatility allows it to be dressed up or down, making it suitable for both formal and casual occasions. It's a great alternative to black, offering a softer and more nuanced look.