Tangaroa
General Information
The color #08203A, also known as Tangaroa, is a deep, dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of depth, stability, and sophistication. It belongs to the blue color family, which is often associated with calmness, trust, and intelligence. In terms of color theory, #08203A has relatively low saturation and brightness, contributing to its subdued and calming presence. This color is often used in designs where a sense of professionalism and reliability is desired. Its hex code indicates the specific mixture of red, green, and blue light needed to reproduce the color accurately on digital displays. The name Tangaroa is derived from the Māori god of the sea, which fits well with the color's aquatic and deep-sea associations. This color is mostly used for backgrounds for logos, websites, and applications.
The hex color #08203A, also known as Tangaroa, presents some accessibility challenges, primarily due to its dark nature. When used as a background color, it necessitates very light text to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. A color like #08203A will likely require text colors close to white (#FFFFFF) to meet these standards. It's crucial to test color combinations using accessibility tools to verify compliance. When using this color for interactive elements like buttons or links, consider providing additional visual cues beyond color alone, such as underlines or borders, to assist users with visual impairments. Ensure sufficient spacing around interactive elements to prevent accidental clicks, especially on touch screens. Also, be mindful of users with photosensitivity; avoid using this dark color in rapidly flashing or strobing patterns.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e3a8a
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains a similar aesthetic while offering improved contrast with lighter text.
- #333333
A dark gray that provides a neutral background, making it easier to pair with a wider range of text colors.
- #102a49
This color offers better readability for the visually impaired when used as a background with white text.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #08203A can be used to create a sophisticated and modern aesthetic. It's particularly effective as a background color for headers or footers, providing a sense of depth and professionalism. Pair it with light, sans-serif fonts for a clean and readable look. It can also be incorporated into website branding for companies looking to convey trust and stability. Furthermore, its dark nature makes it suitable for dark mode interfaces, which are increasingly popular among users.
Interior Design
In interior design, Tangaroa can be used to create a calming and luxurious atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms or living rooms, especially when combined with soft lighting and plush textures. Consider using it as an accent wall color or for furniture upholstery. Metallic accents, such as gold or copper, can further enhance its richness. It is also suitable for offices or study rooms where concentration is important.
Fashion
In the fashion industry, this color makes for elegant evening wear or sophisticated business attire. It can be used for dresses, suits, or accessories like handbags and shoes. The color pairs well with metallic jewelry and can create a statement of quiet confidence and understated style. It could also be used as a base color in patterns to highlight brighter accent colors.