Black Forest
About Black Forest (#071500)
The hexadecimal color code #071500, often referred to as 'Black Forest' due to its resemblance to the deep, dark greens found in heavily forested areas, is a very dark shade of green. It is composed of 2.75% red, 8.24% green, and 0% blue. In the RGB color space, it has the values R:7, G:21, B:0. This color has a very low saturation and a near-zero lightness value, contributing to its almost black appearance. Colors like this are often perceived as sophisticated, mysterious, and calming, although their limited visibility requires careful use in design. Due to its darkness, it's not recommended for use with smaller texts.
The color #071500, also known as Black Forest, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its extremely low luminance results in very poor contrast against virtually any background color, including white (#FFFFFF). This makes it difficult for users with visual impairments, such as low vision or color blindness, to read text or distinguish elements using this color. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for ensuring readability and usability. Therefore, using #071500 as a primary text or background color is strongly discouraged. When incorporating it in designs, prioritize pairing it with very light colors to meet minimum contrast ratios. Consider alternative, more accessible colors whenever possible to ensure an inclusive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1a2300
A slightly lighter shade that maintains a dark forest aesthetic but offers improved contrast against light backgrounds.
- #36451d
A dark olive green that provides a similar feel while being more distinguishable.
- #333333
A deep charcoal gray that could serve as a neutral alternative, offering better readability.
Applications
Web Design Accents
In web design, Black Forest can be used sparingly for decorative elements, such as borders or subtle background accents, to evoke a sense of mystery or nature. However, it should never be used for critical text or interactive elements due to its poor readability. Consider pairing it with high-contrast colors for any text or icons placed on this background to meet accessibility standards. It is suitable for themes with a dark mode option, offering a distinctive, deep hue.
Interior Design Accents
In interior design, Black Forest can be applied as a wall color in small spaces or as an accent color to create a cozy, enveloping atmosphere. It can also be used for furniture upholstery or decorative pillows, especially when combined with natural materials like wood and stone. Due to its darkness, it's best used in rooms with ample natural light or with strategic artificial lighting to prevent the space from feeling too closed in. It pairs well with metallic accents.
Fashion Accents
In fashion, Black Forest could be a striking color choice for outerwear, creating a sense of sophistication and depth. It's also appropriate for accessories such as scarves, gloves, or hats. While not commonly used for entire garments, it works well as a base color for printed fabrics, providing a dark and grounding backdrop. The color can also be used in more formal settings for clothing, where darker colors are prefered.