Downriver
General Information about #072256
The hex color #072256, often referred to as "Downriver", is a deep, dark shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and possesses a high level of saturation despite its low brightness. In the RGB color model, #072256 is composed of 2.75% red, 13.33% green, and 33.73% blue. This color is generally perceived as serious, stable, and can evoke feelings of trust and authority. It is commonly used in professional settings and corporate branding where a sense of reliability is important. When working with #072256, consider its impact on overall design and ensure appropriate contrast with other elements to maintain readability and visual appeal.
The hex color #072256, also known as Downriver, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value (very dark) results in poor contrast against lighter backgrounds, making text or interactive elements difficult to read. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is essential for ensuring readability and usability. For text to be accessible, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. #072256 will likely fail these contrast tests against common background colors like white or light gray. Therefore, when using this color, it is crucial to pair it with very light text or interface elements to meet accessibility standards. Developers should use contrast checking tools to verify compliance and consider alternative, lighter shades if necessary to improve accessibility and user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1a3b75
A slightly lighter shade that maintains the deep blue aesthetic but provides improved contrast against white backgrounds, enhancing readability.
- #0830a3
A more saturated blue that can draw attention as a highlight color while still offering a rich, dark tone.
- #075630
This color provides a similar level of darkness while shifting slightly toward green, offering a subtle variation on the deep blue theme and creating a sense of depth and sophistication.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
In web design, #072256 is effective for creating a sense of depth and sophistication. It works well for headers, footers, and sidebars where a strong, grounding color is needed. When used sparingly and paired with contrasting light text, it can provide an elegant and professional look. However, it is crucial to use it carefully in larger areas to avoid overwhelming the user and ensure readability.
Corporate Branding
#072256 lends itself well to creating sophisticated branding materials. Envision business cards or letterheads utilizing this shade in conjunction with silver or gold foil lettering to evoke feelings of quality and distinction. Consider using #072256 in logo design to communicate a stable and enduring image.
Interior Design Accents
The rich, dark hue of Downriver can be strategically used in interior design to create accent walls or to provide depth and focus in a room. Paired with lighter, contrasting furniture and decor, this shade can add a touch of luxury and elegance to living spaces. It's particularly suitable for studies, libraries, or home theaters where a calm and immersive environment is desired.