Asphalt
About Asphalt (#110E0A)
The hexadecimal color code #110E0A represents a very dark shade of brown, almost black, often referred to as Asphalt due to its resemblance to the color of paved roads. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 6.67% red, 5.49% green, and 4% blue. This low percentage of each primary color results in its dark appearance. In the HSV (or HSB) color model, it has a hue of 30 degrees, a saturation of 40%, and a brightness of 7%. This color is commonly used to evoke feelings of sophistication, neutrality, and strength. Because of its dark value, it is typically used as an accent color or a background color in design, especially when paired with brighter, contrasting colors to create visual interest.
The color #110E0A, often referred to as Asphalt, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly when used for text or interactive elements. Its extremely low luminance value results in very poor contrast against standard white backgrounds. This fails to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) AA and AAA standards for text and non-text contrast. For instance, normal text requires a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1, while large text needs 3:1. Asphalt would necessitate extremely light foreground colors to even approach these ratios. Therefore, careful consideration is needed. Using it for large graphical elements or as a subtle background accent, paired with very high contrast foreground colors, might be acceptable. Thorough testing with accessibility evaluation tools is strongly recommended to ensure compliance and optimal usability for all users, including those with visual impairments. Ensuring sufficient contrast is essential for readability and overall user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #222222
A slightly lighter shade that provides better contrast while maintaining a dark, neutral aesthetic.
- #333344
A dark gray with a hint of blue, offering a similar feel but potentially improved readability.
- #202210
This is a very dark olive tone, which could provide a softer feel while remaining dark.
Applications
Website Background Accent
Asphalt can be effectively used in website footers or as a subtle background for sections where a sense of depth and sophistication is desired. When used as a background, ensure that all text and interactive elements have sufficiently high contrast ratios to maintain accessibility. The color helps to create a professional and modern look, especially when paired with lighter accent colors. It's often seen in minimalist designs, where the dark background helps emphasize other visual elements. Also, ensure that the background does not distract the content, and be certain to test with people with low vision or other vision deficits.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, asphalt can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It's often employed in accent walls or as a base color for furniture. When using asphalt in a room, it's important to balance it with lighter elements to avoid making the space feel too dark or oppressive. Consider incorporating natural light sources and lighter-colored decor items to create a balanced and inviting environment. Using plants and other earthy tones will bring more harmony to the colors of the living space.
Fashion Apparel
In fashion, Asphalt serves as a versatile base color for creating sophisticated and edgy outfits. It can be used for garments like jackets, pants, or dresses, providing a neutral backdrop for bolder accessories or statement pieces. Pair with brighter colors like red, yellow, or electric blue to create contrast and add visual interest. To create an outfit that is both elegant and stylish, combine Asphalt clothing items with metallic accents like silver or gold jewelry.