Asphalt

General Information about Asphalt (#0E0C00)

#0E0C00, also known as Asphalt, is a very dark shade of brown, almost black. It belongs to the black color family and possesses minimal saturation and very low lightness. This color evokes feelings of strength, stability, and urban landscapes, reminiscent of roads and cityscapes. In color psychology, very dark shades are often associated with sophistication, mystery, and formality. However, its darkness requires careful application to avoid overwhelming designs or causing visual fatigue. It's important to balance it with lighter, contrasting colors to ensure readability and visual interest. This color is more commonly used for backgrounds or accents rather than primary design elements due to its depth.

The color #0E0C00, a very dark shade, poses significant accessibility challenges. Its extremely low luminance results in poor contrast against most background colors, especially white. Text using this color is likely to be unreadable for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. To ensure accessibility, it's crucial to pair this color with very light backgrounds, achieving a contrast ratio that meets WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance. Avoid using this color for essential information, links, or interactive elements without careful consideration of contrast. Alternatives might include slightly lighter shades or the strategic use of borders and outlines to enhance visibility. Prioritizing accessibility ensures a more inclusive user experience.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Web Design: Dramatic Backgrounds

  In web design, #0E0C00 can be used sparingly as a background for a hero section to create a dramatic and mysterious feel. However, due to its low contrast, it must be paired with bright, contrasting text to ensure readability. It can also be used for decorative elements, such as dividers or borders, to add subtle depth to a design. This color is effective for conveying a sense of sophistication and exclusivity, making it suitable for luxury brands or websites aiming for a high-end aesthetic. Careful consideration of contrast is essential to maintain usability and accessibility.

• Interior Design: Industrial Chic

  In interior design, #0E0C00, representing asphalt, can be used as a grounding element in a modern, industrial-chic space. It works well on accent walls, particularly when contrasted with lighter, warmer tones like beige or cream to prevent the space from feeling too dark and oppressive. The color can also be incorporated through furniture pieces, such as leather sofas or metal shelving, to create a sense of urban sophistication. When using such a dark color, ensure ample natural or artificial light is available to brighten the room and highlight the color's subtle nuances.

• Fashion: Edgy Minimalism

  In fashion, #0E0C00 can serve as a versatile base color for creating edgy, minimalist, or sophisticated looks. It's an excellent choice for outerwear, such as trench coats or leather jackets, providing a sleek and timeless appeal. This color can also be used for accessories like belts, shoes, or bags to add a touch of understated elegance to any outfit. When styling with asphalt tones, incorporating textures and contrasting fabrics is key to prevent the outfit from looking flat or dull. Metallic accents or pops of bright color can further elevate the overall look.

Complementary color

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