Black Bean
General Information about #081814
The hexadecimal color code #081814, also known as Black Bean, represents a very dark shade of green. It is composed of 3.14% red, 9.41% green, and 7.84% blue. In the RGB color model, it is defined as (8, 24, 20). This color's perceived darkness is due to its low luminance value of approximately 3.66%. Black Bean falls under the category of near-black colors and is often used to convey a sense of sophistication, depth, or mystery. Its subtle green undertone differentiates it from a pure black, offering a nuanced visual effect. This color is generally used sparingly to accent specific elements, when employed as a background, its effect should be carefully considered because of its accessibility challenges.
The color #081814, also known as Black Bean, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its extremely low luminance value (very dark) results in poor contrast against most backgrounds, including the standard white background. This lack of contrast makes text and other graphical elements difficult to discern. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal text and 3:1 for large text against its background to meet Level AA conformance. Black Bean falls far short of these requirements when paired with lighter colors, necessitating careful consideration of color pairings. To improve accessibility, it should be used sparingly and ideally paired with very light colors to achieve an acceptable contrast ratio. Alternative color choices with higher luminance values or the strategic use of borders or outlines can also mitigate accessibility issues when using this color.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1a1a1a
A slightly lighter shade of gray can provide better contrast while maintaining a similar dark aesthetic.
- #0a201a
A very dark desaturated green can still offer a similar visual impression but might have slightly better contrast depending on the background.
- #333333
A dark charcoal color offers more flexibility in achieving acceptable contrast ratios for text and interface elements, while retaining a sense of sophistication.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Black Bean can be utilized as a background color for specific sections or elements where a deep, muted tone is desired. It's particularly effective for creating a sense of depth and sophistication. When employing this color, careful attention must be paid to the foreground elements, which require a very light color, such as white or pale yellow, to ensure sufficient contrast and readability. It's most suitable for decorative purposes or larger graphical elements rather than extensive text blocks due to readability constraints. Furthermore, interactive elements such as buttons or links need distinct visual cues to ensure usability, for example, a contrasting hover state to indicate interactivity.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Black Bean can be used as a sophisticated alternative to traditional black, offering a slightly warmer and more subdued tone. It pairs well with a range of colors, from muted earth tones to vibrant jewel tones, and can be used in various clothing items, from outerwear to accessories. This color is especially suitable for creating elegant and understated looks, conveying a sense of refinement. It can also be effectively incorporated into textured fabrics to add depth and visual interest. Combining Black Bean with metallic accents like gold or silver can elevate its luxurious appeal.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Black Bean can be used as an accent color to create a calming and grounding atmosphere. It's particularly well-suited for spaces where a sense of serenity is desired, such as bedrooms or reading nooks. This color works well on walls, furniture, or decorative elements, such as cushions and rugs. When paired with natural materials like wood and stone, Black Bean enhances the organic feel of a room. Using it in combination with soft lighting and textures creates a cozy and inviting ambiance.