Black Forest
General Information
The hex color #0A1B04, also known as Black Forest, is a very dark shade of green, almost appearing black to the naked eye. It sits within the green color family and evokes feelings of nature, depth, and earthiness. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 3.92% red, 10.59% green, and 1.57% blue. In the CMYK color model, used for printing, it consists of 63% cyan, 0% magenta, 85% yellow, and 89% black. This color is often associated with forests, shadows, and a sense of mystery. Its very low luminance makes it challenging to use in design without careful consideration of contrast and accessibility. It can be a good choice for creating a subtle, sophisticated look, especially when paired with lighter colors or natural materials.
The color #0A1B04, also known as Black Forest, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its extremely low luminance value (very close to black) means that text or elements using this color as a background will require very light text to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments to perceive content effectively. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Black Forest is unlikely to meet these standards with most colors except for nearly pure white. When using this color, careful consideration is needed to choose appropriate foreground colors, and tools like contrast checkers should be employed to verify compliance with accessibility standards. Failure to meet these standards can exclude users and hinder their ability to access information.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1a2b14
A slightly lighter shade of green can provide better contrast while still maintaining a natural, forest-like feel.
- #36411e
A dark olive green offers a bit more brightness and can be more versatile in various designs.
- #333333
A dark grey provides a high readability in combination with white fonts and still give a modern look.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Black Forest (#0A1B04) can be used sparingly for background elements or decorative accents to evoke a sense of nature, depth, or mystery. Due to its very dark nature, it is best paired with very light text to ensure readability and accessibility. Consider using it for headers, footers, or as a subtle overlay on images. Avoid using it for large blocks of text or interactive elements, as the low contrast can strain the eyes and reduce usability. Proper use of this color requires a strong understanding of color theory and accessibility guidelines to ensure a positive user experience.
Interior Design
In interior design, Black Forest can serve as a sophisticated accent color in spaces that aim to create a sense of tranquility and connection with nature. It works well in combination with natural materials such as wood, stone, and linen, adding depth and grounding to the overall aesthetic. Consider using it for accent walls, furniture upholstery, or decorative accessories like cushions and throws. It is particularly well-suited for studies, bedrooms, or meditation spaces, where a calming and contemplative atmosphere is desired. Ensure adequate lighting is in place to prevent the space from feeling too dark or somber.
Fashion
In fashion, Black Forest can add a touch of understated elegance and mystery to an outfit. It works well as a base color for garments like dresses, skirts, or trousers, creating a sophisticated and versatile look. Pair it with lighter, contrasting colors for accessories like scarves, jewelry, or shoes to add visual interest and prevent the outfit from appearing too monotonous. It's an excellent color choice for evening wear or for creating a chic, minimalist style. The color expresses reliability and style.