Smalt
General Information about Smalt (#042894)
The hex color code #042894, also known as Smalt, represents a deep and saturated shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and evokes feelings of trust, stability, and intellect. In the RGB color model, #042894 consists of 1.57% red, 15.69% green, and 58.04% blue. Its CMYK equivalent is approximately 97% cyan, 73% magenta, 0% yellow, and 42% black. Smalt is often associated with professionalism, authority, and calmness, making it a popular choice in corporate branding, website design, and interior decor. The color has historical significance, as Smalt pigment, made from potassium glass colored with cobalt, has been used for centuries in paints, glazes, and dyes.
The color #042894, a deep shade of blue often referred to as Smalt, presents several accessibility considerations for web design. Given its low lightness value, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast when pairing it with text or other interactive elements. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. When using #042894 as a background, lighter colors like whites, yellows, or light blues should be considered for foreground text to meet these standards. Tools like contrast checkers can help in verifying the accessibility of color combinations. Failure to provide adequate contrast can result in a poor user experience, especially for individuals with visual impairments. Moreover, avoid relying solely on color to convey information; use supplementary cues like text labels or icons to ensure inclusivity.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Corporate Website Design
Smalt (#042894) can be employed as the primary color in website designs for financial institutions or corporate entities aiming to project an image of stability and trustworthiness. The deep blue evokes feelings of security and reliability, making it suitable for headers, navigation bars, and call-to-action buttons. It can also be effectively used in charts and graphs to represent data, especially in contexts where clarity and professionalism are paramount. In user interfaces, using this color for primary actions can guide the user, but always ensure sufficient contrast with text.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #042894 can be utilized as an accent color in rooms to create a sense of depth and sophistication. It pairs well with lighter, neutral tones like grays and beiges, adding a pop of color without overwhelming the space. Consider using it for throw pillows, artwork, or as a feature wall color in a home office or study. The color is often seen as intellectual and calming and promotes concentration. In fashion, it can be used for evening dresses to convey a sense of luxury and grace.
Banking Apps
Smalt is a suitable selection for the background of mobile banking apps, providing a sense of security. This color can be paired with white text and icons for key functionalities, ensuring readability and intuitive navigation. It also serves as a solid background for loading screens, providing a sense of calm and reliability. Complement it with teal-colored graphics and interface elements for a touch of modernity. This combination is known to work well as it offers a sense of professionalism.