Cobalt
General Information about Cobalt (#074CAD)
Cobalt, represented by the hex code #074CAD, is a deep, rich shade of blue that evokes feelings of stability, trust, and sophistication. It falls within the blue color family, known for its calming and intellectual associations. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 2.75% red, 28.24% green, and 80.39% blue. The color's CMYK values are 97% cyan, 65% magenta, 0% yellow, and 20% black. Originating from the use of cobalt salts in pigments for ceramics and glass, cobalt has a long history of use in art and design. This color is frequently used in corporate branding, website design, and interior decorating to convey a sense of reliability and professionalism.
The hex color #074CAD, also known as Cobalt, presents some accessibility considerations, particularly in the context of web design. Its relatively low luminance value means that it requires careful selection of foreground colors to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Therefore, when using #074CAD as a background, it is advisable to use light-colored text such as white (#FFFFFF) or a very pale yellow to meet accessibility standards. Tools like contrast checkers can be used to verify compliance. Additionally, avoid using this color for essential visual elements without proper text labels or ARIA attributes, as users with color vision deficiencies might struggle to distinguish it from similar dark hues. Providing alternative cues, like patterns or icons, can enhance accessibility for a broader audience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Cobalt (#074CAD) can be effectively used to establish a sense of professionalism and trustworthiness. It's suitable for backgrounds, headers, and navigational elements in corporate websites, financial platforms, or educational portals. This color can be paired with neutral tones such as white or light gray to create a clean and modern look. Furthermore, it can be incorporated into branding materials, logos, and call-to-action buttons to maintain visual consistency. The deep, authoritative nature of cobalt makes it ideal for industries that require conveying stability and expertise, ensuring a polished and user-friendly digital experience.
Interior Design
In interior design, the use of Cobalt (#074CAD) can bring a sense of depth and sophistication to a space. It works well as an accent color in living rooms, bedrooms, or studies, either through painted walls, furniture upholstery, or decorative accessories. When paired with lighter colors such as cream or beige, it creates a balanced and inviting atmosphere. Cobalt can also be used in combination with metallic accents like gold or silver to enhance its luxurious feel. Furthermore, it is a great choice for adding a touch of elegance to home offices or libraries, promoting focus and a sense of calm.
Fashion
In the realm of fashion, Cobalt (#074CAD) serves as a versatile color choice for creating bold and stylish outfits. It can be used in formal wear like dresses and suits to make a statement, or in casual wear like jeans and sweaters for a more relaxed look. Cobalt pairs well with a variety of colors, including white, black, gray, and even warmer tones like mustard yellow or coral. It’s an excellent choice for accessories like handbags, scarves, and shoes, adding a pop of color to any ensemble. Whether it's a sophisticated evening gown or a casual weekend outfit, cobalt brings a touch of elegance and confidence to the wearer.