Black Bean
General Information about #081C12
The hexadecimal color code #081C12 represents a very dark shade of green, often referred to as 'Black Bean'. It is composed of 3.14% red, 10.98% green, and 7.06% blue. In the RGB color model, it is defined by the values R:8, G:28, and B:18. In the CMYK color model, which is used in printing, it is composed of 71.43% cyan, 0% magenta, 65.48% yellow, and 89.02% black. This color is typically perceived as a muted, earthy tone due to its low saturation and brightness. Its darkness makes it suitable for use as a background color where high contrast with foreground elements is desired, or as an accent color to provide depth. It should be used carefully to ensure readability and accessibility, especially when used with text.
The color #081C12, also known as Black Bean, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its extremely low luminance value of 0.007 makes it difficult to achieve sufficient contrast with lighter foreground colors, which is essential for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Black Bean struggles to meet these ratios with most common text colors, potentially causing eye strain and making content inaccessible. To improve accessibility, it is advisable to use a much lighter foreground color, employ larger font sizes, or consider a different background color altogether. Tools that measure color contrast ratios can assist in evaluating and ensuring compliance with accessibility standards. Web developers should also avoid using #081C12 for interactive elements like buttons or links, as it can be challenging for users to identify and interact with them.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of green can provide a similar earthy feel while improving contrast and readability.
Dark gray provides better contrast with most text colors, making it a more accessible choice.
A dark olive green offers a sophisticated look with improved visibility compared to pure Black Bean.
Applications
Web Design Background
In web design, the hex color #081C12 can be utilized as a background for sections intended to evoke a sense of nature or sophistication. Imagine a website for an organic skincare brand using it as the backdrop for testimonials, paired with light beige text to ensure readability. Avoid using it for interactive elements due to its low contrast. The color could also be used subtly in website illustrations such as a forest background. It is also conceivable for dark-themed sites for coding tutorials.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #081C12 can be incorporated as an accent color in modern or minimalist spaces. Consider using it for a feature wall in a study or home office, complemented by light-colored furniture and warm lighting to prevent the room from feeling too dark. It could be paired with natural wood tones and metallic accents like brass or copper. Alternatively, it could be used as a subtle color for plants or vases.
Fashion Base Color
In fashion, #081C12 could be utilized as a base color for a garment, such as a long wool coat or dark pants, paired with brighter accessories to create a balanced and sophisticated look. This color can work well with natural fibers like cotton or linen, adding a touch of grounding elegance to the outfit. Consider pairing it with gold jewelry or vibrant scarves for a more striking appearance.