Asphalt
General Information About Asphalt
The hex color #12080A, often referred to as Asphalt, is a very dark, desaturated shade of brown. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 7.06% red, 3.14% green, and 3.92% blue. Converting this to the CMYK color model, it consists of 0% cyan, 55.56% magenta, 44.44% yellow, and 92.94% black. This color evokes a sense of urban landscapes and muted, industrial environments. Its darkness and lack of vibrant hues contribute to a serious and understated aesthetic. It is a color often associated with strength, durability, and a touch of mystery. Its limited saturation makes it a versatile choice for backgrounds and accents where a subtle, grounding element is desired.
The color #12080A, also known as Asphalt, presents some accessibility challenges due to its low luminance. When used as a foreground color, it requires a very light background to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, especially for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Asphalt falls short of these recommendations when paired with many common background colors. Designers should carefully evaluate color combinations using contrast checkers to guarantee compliance. It's also vital to consider alternative ways to convey information, such as using icons or text labels, to supplement color-based cues. Offering high contrast themes or allowing users to customize colors can significantly improve the accessibility of content using this dark hue.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
Asphalt (#12080A) can be effectively used in website design to create a modern and sophisticated feel. It works well for backgrounds, headers, and footers, providing a dark canvas that allows brighter colors to pop. In user interfaces, it can be used for elements like sidebars or navigation menus, contributing to a sleek and professional aesthetic. However, caution is advised when using it for text, ensuring sufficient contrast with the background to maintain readability and accessibility. Combining it with lighter accents and ample spacing can create a visually appealing and user-friendly design.
Interior Design
In interior design, Asphalt can be used to create a bold and dramatic statement. It works exceptionally well in modern and industrial-style spaces, adding depth and sophistication to walls, furniture, or accent pieces. When paired with lighter colors and metallic accents, it can create a luxurious and inviting atmosphere. It's important to balance the darkness of Asphalt with adequate lighting to prevent the space from feeling too closed in. Consider using it sparingly to highlight specific areas or features within the room, ensuring a cohesive and visually balanced design.
Fashion Design
Asphalt can serve as a sophisticated base for fashion designs, particularly in creating edgy and modern looks. It lends itself well to outerwear, such as jackets and coats, providing a sleek and versatile option. In apparel, it can be used to create a slimming effect, as dark colors tend to recede visually. When incorporating Asphalt into fashion designs, it is essential to balance it with lighter or brighter accents to prevent the overall look from appearing too somber. Accessorizing with metallic elements or pops of color can add visual interest and prevent monotony.