Black Bean
General Information
The hex color #04170A, often referred to as "Black Bean," is a very dark shade of green, almost indistinguishable from pure black to the untrained eye. It resides in the lower range of the color spectrum, possessing minimal brightness and high saturation in the green hues. This color evokes feelings of nature, earthiness, and grounding, while also carrying a sense of mystery and depth. In color theory, such deep shades are often associated with sophistication and seriousness, making them suitable for designs aiming to convey stability and trustworthiness. However, its darkness also presents challenges in terms of accessibility, particularly when used in digital interfaces, requiring careful consideration of contrast ratios to ensure readability and usability for all users.
The hex color #04170A, a very dark shade close to black, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its extremely low luminance necessitates careful consideration of color contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments to perceive content effectively. Therefore, using #04170A for text or interactive elements requires pairing it with a very light color to meet the minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Failure to ensure adequate contrast can render content illegible for many users, leading to a poor and frustrating user experience. When used as a background, ensure that all foreground elements have sufficient contrast. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance with accessibility standards. Consider alternatives if achieving sufficient contrast proves difficult.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #14271A
A slightly lighter shade of green can provide better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #222222
A dark gray can be a more versatile alternative, offering better readability with a wider range of foreground colors.
- #228B22
A deep forest green can be a good alternative to evoke nature while being more friendly to accessibility.
Applications
Web Design Accents
In web design, #04170A can be used sparingly for subtle accents or as a background color for sections where high contrast is not essential, such as decorative elements. However, it's crucial to avoid using it for primary text or interactive elements due to accessibility concerns. When used for backgrounds, ensure that all foreground elements have sufficient contrast.
Interior Design Accents
In interior design, #04170A can create a sophisticated and grounding effect when used for accent walls or furniture pieces. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, as well as metallic accents like gold or copper. This deep, dark shade can bring a sense of luxury and depth to a room, particularly in spaces designed for relaxation or focus.
Fashion Neutral
In fashion, #04170A can serve as a versatile neutral that complements a variety of colors and styles. It can be used for creating sleek, minimalist looks or as a backdrop for bolder, more colorful pieces. This dark shade adds an element of understated elegance and can be particularly effective in creating a sense of sophistication and refinement.