Asphalt
General Information about Asphalt (#120E08)
The hex color #120E08, commonly referred to as Asphalt, is a very dark shade of gray with subtle brown undertones. It belongs to the family of near-black colors, often associated with urban landscapes and industrial settings, reminiscent of paved roads and weathered surfaces. In the RGB color model, #120E08 is composed of 7.06% red, 5.49% green, and 3.14% blue. Its darkness results in a low level of saturation, giving it a muted and desaturated appearance. The hex code #120E08 is often used in design to evoke feelings of strength, stability, and a touch of edginess. It is frequently employed as a background or accent color to provide contrast and depth.
The hex color #120E08, also known as Asphalt, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very dark nature. Its low luminance results in poor contrast against most background colors, especially white and light shades. This can make text and graphical elements difficult to read for individuals with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. Web developers should avoid using #120E08 as a primary text color or for essential UI elements unless paired with a very light foreground color that provides a contrast ratio meeting WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) AA or AAA standards. Tools like contrast checkers can help ensure sufficient contrast. When using this color for decorative purposes, ensure that critical information is not conveyed solely through it, and provide alternative visual cues for users who may have difficulty distinguishing it.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #221e18
A slightly lighter shade that retains the dark, muted feel but offers improved readability against light backgrounds.
- #333333
A deep gray that provides a more neutral alternative while still conveying a sense of sophistication.
- #202020
This color provides better readability for text while still being a dark and moody color.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
Asphalt's deep, muted tone makes it a fitting choice for backgrounds that need to recede and allow content to stand out. In web design, it can be used to create a sophisticated and understated feel, particularly for portfolios, landing pages, or sites related to architecture, design, or luxury goods. By using it as a background color, one can create a modern website that is not too flashy. Furthermore, it can also be used for mobile apps to provide a dark theme which reduces the strain on the eyes.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Asphalt can be used as a base color for creating elegant and versatile outfits. It pairs well with brighter accent colors or can be used in monochromatic looks for a chic, minimalist aesthetic. It is also suitable for outer wear such as winter coats as well as leather fashion.
Interiour Design
For interior design, Asphalt can be used as an accent wall color to add depth and drama to a space. It works well in combination with natural materials like wood and stone, and can create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Dark colors also are used in interiour design to make a room more private and secure.