Black Bean
General Information
The hex color code #0A160E, often referred to as "Black Bean", is a very dark, muted shade of green. It sits low on the color value scale, indicating its deep saturation and minimal brightness. This color is composed of 3.92% red, 8.63% green, and 5.49% blue. In the RGB color space, #0A160E is closer to black than any other color, due to its low values across all channels. It is perceived as a sophisticated and understated color, carrying a sense of depth and earthiness. Colors like this are often associated with nature, maturity, and stability, although in this particular instance, the values are closer to darkness. Black Bean is rarely used as a primary color, and is best used as a background color.
The color #0A160E, also known as Black Bean, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Its extremely dark nature results in very low contrast against lighter backgrounds, potentially rendering text and other elements unreadable for users with visual impairments. To ensure inclusivity, it's crucial to use this color sparingly and always pair it with a sufficiently light color to achieve a contrast ratio that meets WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards, ideally a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Careful consideration must be given to users with low vision or color blindness, who may struggle to distinguish elements using this color without adequate contrast. Testing with accessibility tools is essential to validate color choices and ensure that content remains accessible to all users. Avoid using #0A160E for important UI elements.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1A261E
A slightly lighter shade of black that provides better contrast against white backgrounds while still maintaining a dark aesthetic.
- #1A361E
A dark green that offers a subtle hint of color while remaining relatively neutral and easy to pair with other colors.
- #36454F
Charcoal grey provides a softer alternative to black, offering better readability against light backgrounds.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Black Bean (#0A160E) can be used sparingly as a background color for sections where a dramatic or sophisticated look is desired. However, due to its dark nature, it's essential to pair it with light-colored text and elements to ensure readability and accessibility. It can also be used for decorative elements like borders or dividers, providing a subtle contrast to lighter elements. When using it for interactive elements, ensure sufficient hover and focus states are implemented with lighter colors to provide clear visual feedback to the user. Consider using it for branding elements where a dark, earthy tone is desired.
Interior Design
In interior design, Black Bean (#0A160E) can serve as a grounding color for walls or furniture in spaces aiming for a natural or rustic feel. It pairs well with wood tones, natural fabrics, and lighter accent colors to create a balanced and inviting atmosphere. It can be particularly effective in creating a cozy and intimate ambiance in bedrooms or reading nooks. It is suitable for elements like accent walls, cabinets, or even as a trim color to add depth and sophistication to a room.
Fashion
In fashion, Black Bean (#0A160E) can be utilized as a base color for creating earthy and understated looks. Garments in this color work well as foundational pieces, blending seamlessly with other natural tones or acting as a neutral backdrop for brighter accents. Its deep shade evokes a sense of grounding and pairs well with textures like corduroy, linen, and suede. It's suitable for creating sophisticated, minimalist styles that emphasize the beauty of natural materials and simple silhouettes. Can be used for pants, jackets, and accessories, offering a subtle alternative to traditional black.