Tarawera
General Information about #103E4D
The hexadecimal color code #103E4D represents a dark, muted shade of cyan-blue, often referred to as 'Tarawera'. It belongs to the cyan color family, possessing a relatively low saturation and brightness. In the RGB color model, it consists of 6.27% red, 24.31% green, and 30.2% blue. The color is frequently associated with feelings of calmness, depth, and sophistication. Due to its low lightness value, it is generally used as an accent color or a background for lighter text and elements. Color #103E4D can be produced by subtractive mixing of cyan, magenta, and yellow pigments, making it suitable for printing applications. In web design, this color is often employed to create a professional, serious, and slightly mysterious visual impression.
The color #103E4D, also known as Tarawera, presents some accessibility challenges. Its low luminance value of 0.03 makes it difficult to achieve sufficient contrast against lighter backgrounds. When used as text, it requires careful consideration of font size and weight to ensure readability. Following WCAG guidelines is crucial; a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Pairing #103E4D with a very light color or using it for decorative elements rather than essential information can help mitigate these issues. Also, provide alternative text or cues for users who may have difficulty distinguishing the color. For interactive elements, such as buttons, ensure sufficient visual cues beyond color alone, like borders or icons, to indicate their state and function, therefore making the content accessible to users with visual impairments. Testing with accessibility tools and soliciting user feedback is highly recommended.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #205e6d
A slightly lighter shade that improves contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #cccccc
A neutral gray that complements Tarawera and provides better readability as a background color.
- #add8e6
A light cyan color that can be used in combination with the main color to provide better readability.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, #103E4D can serve as an accent color for headers, footers, or sidebars. Its dark, subdued nature lends itself well to creating a sophisticated and professional look. However, it's essential to use it sparingly and balance it with lighter colors to avoid overwhelming the user. Furthermore, #103E4D could be effectively employed for data visualization, especially in charts and graphs where a darker color is needed to highlight specific data points. When designing for mobile applications, consider using #103E4D for interactive elements, but make sure the contrast ratio with the background color meets accessibility standards to ensure a user-friendly interface.
Interior and Fashion Applications
In interior design, #103E4D can be used to paint accent walls in living rooms or bedrooms, creating a cozy and calming atmosphere. When combined with natural wood tones and soft lighting, it can transform a space into a sanctuary. In fashion, #103E4D can be featured in clothing or accessories, providing a versatile and elegant choice for both casual and formal attire. It pairs well with neutral colors like beige, cream, and gray, as well as bolder colors like gold and burgundy, allowing for a wide range of styling options and enabling individuals to express their personal style with refinement.
Graphic Design Element
In the realm of graphic design, Tarawera provides a sophisticated and understated option for branding materials. Its depth lends itself to creating logos and visual identities that evoke feelings of trust and reliability. It can be utilized on backgrounds to make text and other elements more eye-catching. Further, the color can be used in infographics to represent important data points, lending a sense of professionalism to the overall presentation.