Asphalt
General Information about Asphalt (#110A0A)
The color #110A0A, also known as Asphalt, is a very dark shade of gray-brown. In the RGB color model, it consists of 6.67% red, 3.92% green, and 3.92% blue. This composition results in a color that is perceived as somber, subdued, and almost black. Asphalt falls within the range of near-black colors, often used to convey a sense of seriousness, sophistication, or urban grit. Its low saturation and luminance values mean it reflects very little light, making it appear deep and intense. It is often used in design to create contrast or to ground brighter, more vibrant colors. The hexadecimal representation #110A0A allows for precise color specification in digital applications, ensuring consistent rendering across various devices and platforms.
The hex color #110A0A, also known as Asphalt, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its extremely low luminance makes it difficult to discern text or elements rendered in this color against a white or light background. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments. To ensure accessibility, it's vital to use #110A0A sparingly and always pair it with a very light color for text or interactive elements. Tools like contrast checkers can help evaluate whether the contrast ratio meets the minimum requirements (4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text). This dark hue should also be avoided for crucial visual cues, such as error messages or important notifications, unless accompanied by clear textual descriptions or icons. For optimal accessibility, consider using slightly lighter shades or different color combinations altogether.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Footer and Header
Asphalt (#110A0A) can be effectively used in website footers and headers to create a strong visual anchor. It provides a solid, grounding effect, especially when contrasted with lighter content sections. The dark hue conveys a sense of stability and professionalism, making it suitable for corporate websites or portfolios aiming for a sophisticated look. However, readability is key, so text placed on this background must be a light color with sufficient contrast. Also, consider using it for subtle background accents or dividers to delineate sections without overwhelming the design. This use case works well when a website aims for a muted, serious tone.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Asphalt (#110A0A) can be employed to create a modern and sophisticated atmosphere. Think of it as an accent wall color in a minimalist living room or a feature color in a home office. The deep, dark shade adds depth and drama to a space, especially when paired with lighter neutrals like white, beige, or light grey. Furniture made of metal or glass would create a nice contrast. Furthermore, it can be used in smaller elements such as picture frames or decorative items to bring some depth into a bright and friendly space.
Fashion - Grounding Neutral
In fashion, Asphalt (#110A0A) serves as a grounding neutral, perfect for creating a sophisticated and edgy look. It can be used as the base color for outfits, particularly in outerwear like jackets or coats, or in accessories such as bags and shoes. When paired with brighter or bolder colors, it allows those hues to stand out while providing a solid foundation. It's also a versatile choice for creating monochromatic looks, especially when playing with different textures like leather, wool, and silk. Asphalt can easily create a chic and urban aesthetic, reflecting a modern sensibility.