Black Forest
General Information
The hex color #0A1A05, often referred to as "Black Forest," is a very dark shade of green, almost appearing black to the naked eye. It belongs to the family of green colors but possesses extremely low saturation and brightness. The color's name evokes the imagery of a dense, dark forest, hinting at its association with nature, mystery, and depth. In terms of color composition, #0A1A05 comprises a minimal amount of red (0A), a slightly higher proportion of green (1A), and a very small amount of blue (05) in hexadecimal representation. This combination results in its characteristic dark green hue. Because of its darkness, it can create calm atmospheres.
The hex color #0A1A05, also known as Black Forest, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its very low luminance value results in poor contrast against both white and most light-colored backgrounds. This lack of contrast makes text and other visual elements difficult to read for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. To ensure accessibility, it is crucial to avoid using #0A1A05 for text or interactive elements unless paired with a very light color that provides a sufficient contrast ratio, as defined by WCAG guidelines. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Consider using accessibility evaluation tools to verify contrast ratios and ensure compliance with accessibility standards to provide an inclusive user experience. Using this color as a background requires equally careful consideration to ensure foreground elements are clearly visible.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Interior Design
In interior design, Black Forest can be used as an accent color to create a sophisticated and natural ambiance. It works well in studies, libraries, or other spaces where a sense of calm and focus is desired. Pair it with lighter, earthy tones and natural materials like wood and stone to enhance the organic feel. Avoid using it as the primary wall color in small or poorly lit rooms, as it can make the space feel darker and more confined. Instead, use it for furniture, decorative accessories, or as a subtle accent wall to add depth and character.
Fashion
In fashion, Black Forest can be used to create elegant and understated looks, especially for evening wear or formal occasions. It pairs well with metallic accents like gold or silver, as well as other dark, muted colors. Because it is a dark color, using it in clothing may create a slimming effect. Using it for accessories like handbags and belts may create a unique look. It can also be used for creating a camouflage look.
Webdesign
In web design, #0A1A05 can be used to create a natural look for websites. Because of its limited accessibility, consider carefully when using it for fonts. When using it, make sure that there is enough contrast and that the website can still be used by users with impaired vision. As a web designer you could think of using it for branding with a calm aesthetic.