Black Bean
General Information about #051A12
The hex color #051A12, often referred to as "Black Bean", is a very dark shade of green. It resides within the range of deep, earthy tones and carries a subtle hint of nature. This color is characterized by its low saturation and luminance, which contributes to its muted appearance. In color theory, #051A12 is created by a combination of small amounts of red, green, and blue light, with green being the most prominent. Its darkness makes it a challenging color to use in many applications, requiring careful consideration of contrast and surrounding colors. The color's RGB values are R:5, G:26, B:18, and its CMYK values are C:81, M:0, Y:31, K:90.
The color #051A12, a dark, muted green, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its low luminance value necessitates careful consideration of contrast ratios, especially in text-based applications. To ensure readability, it's crucial to pair it with a very light color for text or interactive elements. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text is recommended to meet WCAG AA standards. When used for graphical elements, a contrast ratio of 3:1 against adjacent colors is necessary. Avoid using this color for essential visual information without providing alternative cues, such as icons or text labels. Users with low vision or color blindness may struggle to distinguish this color from a dark background, so sufficient contrast is vital. Thorough testing with accessibility tools is recommended to ensure compliance.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #103020
A slightly lighter shade of green that provides better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #333333
A neutral dark grey that offers improved readability when used as a background color for lighter text.
- #153025
This shade offers a brighter and more visible alternative, enhancing overall clarity and user experience, while retaining a similar dark base.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
In web design, #051A12 can serve as a subtle background color for website sections related to nature, sustainability, or eco-friendly products. It evokes a sense of grounding and tranquility. However, due to its darkness, it's crucial to use it sparingly and pair it with light-colored text and visual elements to ensure readability and a balanced aesthetic. Consider using it as a secondary color in the overall color scheme, complemented by brighter accents to draw attention to key information and calls to action. Proper use of whitespace can also enhance the visual appeal and prevent the design from feeling too heavy or overwhelming.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #051A12 can be employed as an accent color for walls or furniture in spaces aiming for a sophisticated and natural ambiance. This color can be beautifully combined with lighter, earthy tones like beige or cream to create a calming and inviting atmosphere. Consider using it in rooms with ample natural light to prevent the space from feeling too dark or enclosed. Accessorizing with plants and natural materials further enhances the connection to nature and complements the color's inherent qualities, adding depth and richness to the overall design.
Product Packaging
This color can be incorporated into packaging design for organic or sustainable products to convey a sense of naturalness and eco-friendliness. It is best used when paired with minimalist design elements and natural textures to enhance the product's perceived value and commitment to environmental responsibility. The dark green can evoke feelings of trust and reliability, attracting environmentally conscious consumers. Ensure that the design is not overly reliant on color for conveying information, providing alternative visual cues for accessibility.