Black Forest
General Information About Black Forest (#0D1604)
The hex color code #0D1604 represents a very dark shade of green, often referred to as "Black Forest." This color is characterized by its extremely low luminance and saturation, making it appear almost black with subtle green undertones. In the RGB color model, it consists of 5.1% red, 8.63% green, and 1.57% blue. The perceived darkness of this color makes it challenging to work with in design, especially regarding accessibility. The name "Black Forest" evokes images of dense, shadowy forests, reflecting the color's somber and nature-inspired aesthetic. Colors like these can bring a sense of nature and calmness. It's a very unique tone and is often seen in earthy designs.
The color #0D1604, also known as Black Forest, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very dark nature. Its low luminance results in poor contrast against typical light backgrounds, making it difficult for individuals with visual impairments to discern text or graphical elements. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Black Forest falls far short of these recommendations when paired with standard white or light-colored backgrounds. To improve accessibility, it is crucial to use this color sparingly and always ensure it is paired with a very light foreground color to achieve an acceptable contrast ratio. Alternatives might include lighter shades of green or brown or avoiding its use for text altogether. Providing alternative text descriptions for images using this color is also recommended.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #36451d
A dark olive green provides a similar earthy feel but with slightly better visibility and contrast.
- #228b22
A deep forest green offers a richer tone that can enhance visual interest without sacrificing readability against lighter backgrounds.
- #36454f
Charcoal provides a more neutral alternative, offering better contrast and readability compared to Black Forest.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Black Forest can be used as a subtle background accent for sections where a natural or organic theme is desired. However, it's crucial to pair it with high-contrast text (e.g., white or bright yellow) to ensure readability. Avoid using it for large blocks of text or critical interface elements due to its low visibility. It is useful for creating a calm and natural feel for a website, particularly when used for non-essential elements.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Black Forest can be incorporated as a sophisticated accent color in spaces aiming for a natural or rustic aesthetic. Consider using it on accent walls or furniture pieces in well-lit rooms. To avoid a gloomy atmosphere, balance it with lighter and warmer colors such as creams, beiges, or soft yellows. It can also work well in combination with natural materials like wood and stone, enhancing the overall organic feel of the space.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Black Forest can be used for creating deep, earthy tones in clothing designs. Use it for creating neutral backgrounds and highlighting with brighter hues. Consider textures like velvet or corduroy to enrich the color's depth. Use it for accessories such as belts or bags to create a natural, grounding element in an outfit. Avoid head-to-toe looks to ensure the outfit feels fresh and balanced, rather than overwhelming.