Catalina Blue
General Information about Catalina Blue (#0A3876)
The hexadecimal color #0A3876, commonly referred to as Catalina Blue, is a deep, saturated shade of blue within the broader blue color family. It is composed of 3.92% red, 21.96% green, and 46.27% blue. In the RGB color space, it's represented as RGB(10, 56, 118). This color conveys feelings of trust, stability, and intelligence, which makes it suitable for various applications in branding, web design, and even interior decoration. Catalina Blue is a versatile color, but its darkness means careful consideration must be given to contrast when used with text or other elements. Lighter colors typically pair best to ensure readability and accessibility. This color can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any design project when used thoughtfully.
The color #0A3876, also known as Catalina Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as a background for text. Its low lightness value (being a dark color) requires careful consideration of contrast ratios. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability, particularly for users with visual impairments. When using #0A3876 as a background, aim for a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular). Light text colors like white (#FFFFFF) or very light grays are generally necessary to achieve this contrast. It's also important to avoid using this color for interactive elements without clear visual cues, as it can be difficult for users to discern interactive areas. Providing alternative styling, such as borders or underlines, can significantly improve usability. Always test color combinations with accessibility tools to ensure compliance with accessibility standards and optimal user experience for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e4a87
A slightly lighter shade offers improved readability as a background color, while still maintaining a similar aesthetic feel.
- #284b63
A more desaturated version provides a softer, less intense visual experience.
- #062a5a
A darker shade can be used to provide a greater sense of depth or to emphasize other elements in the design.
Applications
Corporate Branding
Catalina Blue (#0A3876) evokes feelings of trust, security, and professionalism, making it an excellent choice for branding in the finance or technology sectors. This color can be applied to logos, website headers, and marketing materials to create a sense of stability and reliability. Using it sparingly as an accent color can also draw attention to key elements and calls to action, enhancing the overall brand message. Furthermore, its depth can create a sophisticated look and feel, enhancing user experience and contributing to a memorable brand identity.
Web Design
In web design, #0A3876 can be used for navigation bars, headers, and footers to create a visually appealing and organized layout. The deep blue tone provides a sophisticated look and helps to differentiate sections of the webpage. Use of a contrasting color for text and interactive elements ensures readability and accessibility. Consider using it alongside lighter shades of blue or complementary colors to create a balanced and engaging user interface, enhancing user experience on desktop and mobile platforms.
Interior Design
In interior design, Catalina Blue can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere in bedrooms or living rooms. It pairs well with neutral colors like gray, beige, and white, as well as natural materials like wood and stone. Consider using it as an accent wall color or for upholstery to add depth and interest to a space. Using lighter shades of blue or complementary colors like gold or yellow can create a balanced and inviting environment.