Asphalt
General Information about #120E09
The hexadecimal color code #120E09 represents a very dark, almost black shade. It is composed of 7.06% red, 5.49% green, and 3.53% blue. In the RGB color model, this translates to R:18, G:14, B:9. Its CMYK representation is C:0, M:0.222, Y:0.5, K:0.929. This color evokes a sense of darkness, mystery, and sophistication. Due to its low lightness value, it's essential to use it carefully in design, particularly in web applications. It belongs to a family of colors that often communicate elegance, somberness, or a serious tone. The name 'Asphalt' is used to describe the shade, which can be used to refer the dark and muted shade of grey color.
The color #120E09, a very dark shade, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its extremely low luminance makes it difficult to perceive, especially for individuals with visual impairments. Using this color as text on a white background would result in a very low contrast ratio, failing WCAG standards for readability. To ensure accessibility, it is imperative to avoid using #120E09 as a primary text or interactive element color. If it is essential to use this color in a design, provide very high contrast ratios with light foreground colors. Additionally, consider using larger font sizes and clear, simple typography to improve readability. It's crucial to provide alternative cues such as icons or labels alongside the color to ensure that information isn't conveyed solely through color. Thoroughly test designs with users, including those with visual impairments, to validate accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #333333
A slightly lighter shade of gray that provides a bit more visibility while still maintaining a dark, muted aesthetic.
- #36454F
A dark charcoal gray which offers improved contrast compared to pure black, enhancing readability and visual comfort.
- #2E3A23
A muted, darker shade of green with a subtle earthy tone, providing a natural and calming contrast with a hint of color.
Applications
Modern Website Background
In web design, #120E09 can serve as a sophisticated background element for websites aiming for a modern, minimalist feel. Its deep, almost black hue provides a stark canvas that can highlight brighter elements and typography. For example, a technology company might use it behind a hero section featuring sleek product imagery and bold, contrasting text. It can also function as a secondary color in UI elements like subtle dividers or hover states, adding depth and dimension without overwhelming the user interface. However, one must ensure adequate contrast is present when combining it with light foreground elements.
Elegant Fashion Apparel
In fashion, #120E09 translates into elegant and understated clothing choices. Think of a finely tailored wool coat or a pair of sleek leather boots. The color can be applied to create versatile, timeless pieces that can be easily integrated into diverse wardrobes. As a color, it evokes a sense of sophistication and confidence, making it a suitable option for both professional and casual settings. Incorporating accessories with metallic accents or lighter shades will introduce contrast and visual interest to the outfit.
Interior Accent Color
In interior design, #120E09 acts as a grounding element. It can be used as the primary color for accent walls in living rooms or home theaters, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere. It also serves as a classic color choice for furniture such as leather sofas, coffee tables, and cabinets. Using this dark shade provides a strong contrast against lighter furniture, flooring, and wall decor. Using natural or artificial lighting effectively is important to prevent the room from feeling too dim and maintain the overall balance of the room.