Asphalt

General Information about #0F0406

The hex color #0F0406, often referred to as Asphalt, is a very dark, almost black, shade of gray-brown. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 5.9% red, 1.6% green, and 2.4% blue. Its primary attribute is its extremely low luminance, making it appear very dark to the human eye. This color evokes feelings of urban landscapes, modernity, and subtle sophistication. Due to its darkness, it is often used to create a sense of depth and grounding in designs. The color is not part of the standard web-safe colors, and is a saturated color, since it has values larger than 5 percent. The hex color is mostly used as an accent color in dark themes.

The hex color #0F0406, often referred to as Asphalt, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Its extremely low luminance value means that it provides insufficient contrast against most background colors, especially white or light shades. Text rendered in #0F0406 against a white background would be virtually unreadable for many users, including those with visual impairments. To ensure accessibility, it is crucial to avoid using this color for text or interactive elements without employing a much lighter foreground color to provide adequate contrast as defined by WCAG guidelines. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text is recommended to meet Level AA compliance. If a designer wants to use a dark color, it is recommended to use color contrast tools to verify the color contrast between foreground and background colors.

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Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Web Design Accent

  In web design, Asphalt can be used sparingly as a background accent color for specific sections of a website where high contrast is not essential. For example, it might serve as a dark overlay for a hero image or as a subtle background for a non-critical design element. However, it should never be used for primary text or interactive components without careful consideration of accessibility guidelines and implementation of sufficient contrast. When used thoughtfully, Asphalt can add a touch of sophistication and depth, but its use must be balanced with usability considerations to ensure an inclusive user experience. Also avoid using the color in places where users need to focus, as readability will be reduced.

• Interior Design Accent

  In interior design, Asphalt can be used as a grounding color in a room, particularly in modern or industrial-inspired spaces. It can be used on accent walls, flooring, or furniture to create a sense of depth and sophistication. When paired with lighter colors and metallic accents, Asphalt can create a visually striking and balanced environment. It's important to consider the overall lighting in the room when using such a dark color, as it can make the space feel smaller and darker if not properly lit. Therefore, incorporate plenty of natural and artificial light to offset the darkness and create a more inviting atmosphere.

• Fashion Apparel

  In fashion, Asphalt can be used for clothing items like jackets, pants, or dresses. It is versatile and can be paired with various colors, from bright hues for a bold statement to muted tones for a more understated look. Accessories like bags and shoes can also feature Asphalt, providing a sleek and modern touch to an outfit. The color's neutrality makes it suitable for both casual and formal wear, depending on the fabric and design.

Complementary color

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