Asphalt
About Asphalt (#100909)
The hex color #100909, often referred to as Asphalt, is a very dark shade of gray-brown. It is composed of 6.27% red, 3.53% green, and 3.53% blue. In the RGB color model, it is defined as RGB(16, 9, 9). The color's darkness means it has a very low luminance value. In terms of color perception, #100909 tends to evoke feelings of sobriety, seriousness, and sophistication. Due to its near-black nature, it's often used to create a sense of depth and can be paired with lighter colors to achieve visual contrast. It is essential to consider the end-use application when utilizing this color, especially in digital interfaces or print media, to ensure readability and avoid issues related to insufficient contrast.
The hex color #100909, also known as Asphalt, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very low luminance. With such a dark shade, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast when used with text or interactive elements. A general guideline suggests a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text against its background, as defined by WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines). Using lighter colors for foreground elements like text or icons becomes essential to meet these standards and provide a readable experience. Failure to do so can exclude users with visual impairments, making the content difficult or impossible to perceive. Always test color combinations with accessibility tools to confirm compliance and ensure inclusivity.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of gray can provide better contrast while still maintaining a dark, muted aesthetic.
A dark charcoal gray offers a bit more visual separation and can improve readability when used as a background.
A brownish grey, similar to umber, is an alternative to provide a small tint of colour
Applications
Dark Website Themes
In web design, Asphalt (#100909) can be used for creating dark, sophisticated website themes. It is especially useful for backgrounds of sections that need to stand out, or for highlighting content with light-colored text on top. The color evokes a sense of professionalism and seriousness, making it suitable for corporate websites or portfolios aiming for a sleek and modern look. However, careful attention to contrast is necessary to ensure readability.
Modern Interior Accents
In interior design, Asphalt can be used as an accent color in modern and minimalist spaces. It can be used on walls, furniture, or accessories to add depth and a touch of urban sophistication. When paired with lighter shades of gray, white, or beige, it creates a balanced and harmonious environment. Furthermore, it works well with metallic accents like silver or gold to enhance its luxurious feel.
Urban Fashion Apparel
In fashion, Asphalt can be used as a primary color for clothing, creating a sleek and edgy style. Think of jackets, trousers, or dresses in this shade for a modern and sophisticated appearance. When combined with brighter colors or metallic accessories, it adds a touch of contrast and personality. It's a color that embodies an urban, robust character, fitting for collections that aim for a bold statement.