Asphalt
General Information about Asphalt (#120D08)
The hex color #120D08, often referred to as Asphalt, is a very dark shade of brown, almost appearing black to the naked eye. It belongs to a family of colors that evoke feelings of strength, stability, and a sense of urban sophistication. Its composition is primarily characterized by very low red, green, and blue values, contributing to its near-black appearance. In color theory, #120D08 can be used to create a sense of depth or to ground a design palette. This color is most effectively utilized when contrasted with lighter hues to ensure visibility and readability, especially in digital interfaces and print media. It is often associated with modern and industrial aesthetics, providing a sleek and understated background.
The hex color #120D08, representing Asphalt, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its low luminance. Its dark nature results in very poor contrast against typical light backgrounds like white, making it difficult for users, particularly those with visual impairments, to discern text or important visual elements. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability and usability. To improve accessibility, it is strongly advised to pair #120D08 with much lighter colors for text and interactive elements. Alternatives include using a lighter shade of gray or off-white for the background, or using #120D08 sparingly for decorative purposes only. Thoroughly testing color combinations with accessibility tools is essential to ensure compliance with accessibility standards and a positive user experience for everyone. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for regular text and 3:1 for large text is recommended.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Design
Asphalt (#120D08) can be used in website design to create a sophisticated and grounded aesthetic, particularly well-suited for themes requiring a sense of strength and reliability. It's excellent for headers, footers, or background accents when paired with lighter text colors to ensure readability. Using this color sparingly can add depth without overwhelming the user interface, and it's especially effective for sites related to construction, automotive, or industrial sectors where the 'asphalt' association enhances the brand identity. The color can also be applied to buttons and other interactive elements to provide a subtle, tactile feel, enhancing the user experience.
Interior Design
In interior design, Asphalt can be incorporated as a grounding element. It can be used for accent walls in living rooms or bedrooms to create a cozy, enveloping atmosphere. In furniture selection, consider using this color for sofas, chairs, or wooden finishes to add a touch of masculinity and sophistication. When using it for smaller decor items such as vases or picture frames, ensure there is sufficient contrast with the surrounding lighter colors to avoid the space feeling too dark. The goal is to create a balanced environment that feels both modern and comfortable.
Business Cards
Asphalt (#120D08) is a great choice for creating a very professional look for business cards. For example, the color may be used for the background, and a lighter text color will pop up to provide contrast. The color creates a bold impact that can be balanced with light fonts. It is also a solid choice for companies that are trying to convey a certain image, such as strength, resilience, boldness, or other image. This will add to the overall experience with the card as the color stands out.