Vulcan
General Information about #121722
The hexadecimal color code #121722, often referred to as "Vulcan," is a very dark, desaturated shade of blue-gray. It is composed of 7.1% red, 9% green, and 13.3% blue. In the RGB color model, this translates to (18, 23, 34). This color is frequently perceived as somber, mysterious, and sophisticated. It is commonly associated with qualities such as depth, seriousness, and introspection. In terms of light and darkness, #121722 leans heavily towards the darker end of the spectrum, resulting in a low luminance value. It's important to note the context in which this color is used, as its dark nature can evoke a sense of elegance or, conversely, gloominess depending on its application and the surrounding colors.
The hex color #121722, also known as Vulcan, presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily due to its very low luminance. Its contrast ratio against a standard white background is exceedingly poor, making text or interactive elements using this color difficult for individuals with visual impairments to perceive. To ensure accessibility, it is crucial to avoid using #121722 for text or essential UI elements without employing a much lighter foreground color that provides sufficient contrast. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text is recommended by WCAG guidelines. Using tools to evaluate color contrast is highly advisable during the design process. Furthermore, consider providing alternative color schemes that offer better contrast for users with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #282c34
A slightly lighter shade that maintains a dark aesthetic while improving contrast.
- #3e4444
A desaturated grey that offers a neutral background with better legibility when paired with light text.
- #36454f
A dark blue-grey which provides a subtle alternative to black, and can appear professional and clean.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
In web design, #121722 can be utilized as a background color for website sections intended to convey a sense of sophistication or mystery. Its dark nature can make content pop when paired with appropriately contrasting text and graphical elements. It works exceptionally well in creating a dark-themed website, providing a sleek and modern feel. However, attention must be paid to the color choices of UI elements to ensure sufficient readability and usability, such as using lighter hues for text, buttons, and icons. The key is to maintain visual harmony by introducing contrasting colors to prevent the website from appearing too monotonous or dreary.
Fashion Design
In the realm of fashion, #121722, akin to a dark charcoal, can be incorporated into clothing designs to evoke a sense of elegance and understated style. The hue can be effectively employed in crafting versatile pieces like jackets, trousers, or dresses that exude refinement. This color is exceptionally suitable for creating formal wear, lending an air of sophistication and seriousness to the ensemble. It can also serve as an excellent base color for layering other pieces on top or complementing the main piece with brighter colored accessories. The key is to ensure that the fabric has an interesting texture or is paired with other colors and materials.
Interior Design Accent
#121722 can be used in interior design to create a dramatic and intimate atmosphere. It can serve as an accent wall color in a home theater or a sophisticated study. In a commercial setting, it could be used in a lounge or bar to create a sense of exclusivity. When using this color, it is essential to balance the darkness with ample lighting and lighter colored furniture or décor to prevent the space from feeling too enclosed or somber. Metallic accents can be added to complement the dark color and add a touch of elegance.