Asphalt
General Information about Asphalt (#120F09)
The hex color code #120F09, also known as Asphalt, is a very dark shade of brown. It belongs to the family of neutral colors and evokes feelings of stability, sophistication, and groundedness. In the RGB (Red, Green, Blue) color model, #120F09 is composed of 7.06% red, 5.88% green, and 3.53% blue. In the CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black) color model, its composition is 0% cyan, 16.67% magenta, 50% yellow, and 92.94% black. This indicates that the color is heavily reliant on black pigment, resulting in its deep, muted tone. Asphalt is often associated with urban landscapes, industrial settings, and a sense of understated elegance. It is frequently used in design to create a sense of depth or to provide a neutral backdrop for brighter elements.
The hex color #120F09, representing Asphalt, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very low luminance. Its dark nature results in extremely poor contrast against standard light backgrounds like white (#FFFFFF). This makes it difficult for users, especially those with visual impairments, to discern text or graphical elements rendered in this color. To ensure accessibility, it is crucial to pair #120F09 with very light colors that provide a high contrast ratio. Following WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using color contrast checking tools is essential to verify compliance. Alternative strategies include providing sufficient spacing around elements using this color and offering user-adjustable color schemes to enhance readability and usability for all users. For improved accessibility, consider lighter shades or tints of the color or use it sparingly for decorative elements rather than crucial information.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Asphalt (#120F09) can be utilized to create a sophisticated and muted aesthetic, especially for backgrounds or accents in websites targeting a mature audience. However, due to its dark nature, it should be paired with high-contrast text and interactive elements to ensure readability and usability. It is suitable for creating a sense of depth and richness in designs that aim for a serious or professional tone. The color evokes feelings of stability and groundedness, making it ideal for websites focused on finance, architecture, or luxury goods.
Interior Design
In interior design, Asphalt can be used to evoke a sense of industrial chic or modern minimalism. It works well as a wall color in large, well-lit spaces or as an accent color in furniture or accessories. When using this color, it's important to balance it with lighter elements to prevent the space from feeling too dark or oppressive. Consider incorporating metallic accents or natural textures like wood or stone to create a balanced and inviting atmosphere. It can be suitable for living rooms, studies, or even bedrooms.
Fashion
In fashion, Asphalt can serve as a versatile neutral base for creating edgy and sophisticated looks. It can be used for garments like trousers, jackets, or dresses, which can then be paired with brighter or more vibrant accessories to create contrast and visual interest. It also lends itself well to minimalist designs and can be combined with other neutral tones for a subtle, understated style. This color can create a look suitable for both professional settings and casual outings.