Asphalt
General Information About Asphalt (#0E0A01)
The hexadecimal color code #0E0A01, often referred to as Asphalt, represents a very dark shade of brown, almost black. It is composed of 5.49% red, 3.92% green, and 0.39% blue. In the RGB color space, it has the values R:14, G:10, B:1. In the CMYK color space, it is composed of C:0, M:0.29, Y:0.93, K:0.95. Its dark and subdued nature lends itself to designs seeking a sense of sophistication, mystery, or earthiness. The color evokes feelings of stability and grounding, but it must be used cautiously to avoid overwhelming designs or creating accessibility issues due to low contrast. Understanding its composition and the psychological associations it carries is crucial for effective use in various creative applications.
The color #0E0A01, often referred to as Asphalt, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its very dark nature means that text or interactive elements using this color as a background require extremely light foreground colors to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, achieving a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text is crucial for readability. Given the darkness of #0E0A01, only colors close to white or very light shades of gray or yellow are likely to meet these requirements. Using this color without careful consideration of contrast can exclude users with visual impairments, such as those with low vision or color blindness. Therefore, if #0E0A01 is used, thorough testing with accessibility tools and consideration of user needs are essential to avoid creating barriers.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1a160f
A slightly lighter shade that maintains the dark, sophisticated feel of Asphalt while improving contrast for text.
- #121212
A darker gray that offers a similar aesthetic but might be more versatile in various design contexts.
- #28241a
A muted brown that echoes the natural, earthy tones of Asphalt, providing a softer alternative.
Applications
Website Headers and Footers
Asphalt (#0E0A01) can be effectively used as a background color for website headers or footers, lending a sense of understated sophistication. It pairs well with lighter text and graphics, creating a professional and modern look. However, it should be used sparingly for large blocks of text due to potential readability issues. In UI design, it can serve as a subtle accent color for interactive elements, drawing attention without overwhelming the user. When used strategically, Asphalt can enhance the overall visual appeal of a website, conveying a sense of elegance and reliability.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, Asphalt can be used as a wall color in rooms where a calming and grounding atmosphere is desired, such as bedrooms or home offices. It pairs well with natural wood tones, metallic accents, and pops of brighter colors to create a balanced and inviting space. It can also be used on accent walls to add depth and drama to a room. When using this color, it is important to consider the amount of natural light available, as it can make a room feel darker. Lighter-colored furniture and accessories can help to brighten the space and create a more balanced feel.
Fashion Accent and Neutral
In fashion, Asphalt serves as a versatile neutral that can be incorporated into various designs and styles. It can be used as the main color in clothing items, like dresses or suits, providing a sleek and understated aesthetic. This color also serves as a great background for accessories and other pieces of clothing to really stand out. This color will offer a grounding effect on the rest of the outfit, bringing together and creating a more cohesive style. As a general rule, Asphalt's unique attributes make it a valuable component of any fashion designer's color palette.