Asphalt
General Information
The hexadecimal color code #130908 represents a very dark shade of gray, often described as asphalt due to its resemblance to the color of the road surface. This color is composed of 7.45% red, 3.53% green, and 3.14% blue. In the RGB color model, it is characterized by these low values, resulting in its dark appearance. The low saturation and brightness contribute to its neutral, almost black, quality. The color is often associated with feelings of stability, sophistication, and a touch of industrialism. Its muted nature makes it a versatile color for backgrounds and accents where a subtle presence is desired.
The color #130908, a very dark shade of gray, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its extremely low luminance value means that text rendered in this color against a white background, or even a light-colored background, will likely fail WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) contrast ratio requirements. Specifically, it is crucial to ensure a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) against its background. Using this color for essential textual information is strongly discouraged without careful consideration and testing of contrast. If this color is desired, implementing a light foreground color, such as white or a very light gray, is imperative to meet accessibility standards. Furthermore, avoid using this color for interactive elements like buttons or links unless the hover, focus, and active states provide sufficient contrast. Consider providing alternative color schemes for users with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #262626
A slightly lighter gray can provide better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #332927
A warmer, dark brown can evoke a similar feeling of earthiness but with potentially better contrast depending on the background.
- #36454F
A dark greyish-blue might be a better alternative as it is more visible.
Applications
Web Design - Background Accent
In web design, #130908 can be utilized sparingly as a background color for specific sections to create a sense of depth or contrast. It's well-suited for headers, footers, or sidebars. However, due to its darkness, it should be paired with light-colored text to ensure readability and accessibility. Additionally, this color works well for subtle dividers or borders to separate content sections without being too visually distracting. Its neutral tone allows it to blend seamlessly with various design aesthetics, from minimalist to industrial.
Interior Design - Accent Color
In interior design, #130908 can be used as an accent color for walls or furniture to create a sophisticated and grounding atmosphere. It can be paired with lighter neutral colors like creams or grays to create a balanced and inviting space. Consider using it for a feature wall in a living room or bedroom to add depth and drama. When using it, ensure there's enough natural or artificial light to prevent the room from feeling too dark and enclosed. Incorporating metallic accents like gold or silver can enhance the color's richness.
Fashion - Base Color
In fashion, #130908 can be used as a versatile base color for creating a sleek and understated look. It's suitable for clothing items like pants, skirts, or jackets. It can be paired with bolder colors like red or blue for a contrasting effect or with other neutral tones like beige or white for a more minimalist style. This color is also excellent for accessories such as belts, shoes, and bags. Its neutrality makes it easy to coordinate with different outfits and styles.