Asphalt
General Information About Asphalt
The hexadecimal color #140408, often referred to as Asphalt, is a very dark shade of gray-black. It belongs to the family of near-black colors and possesses minimal luminance, making it appear almost completely black to the human eye. This color is created by a low and nearly equal combination of red, green, and blue light in the RGB color model. In the CMYK color model, commonly used for printing, it would require high percentages of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black inks to replicate this shade. The color #140408 is frequently associated with themes of sophistication, mystery, and strength, and is often utilized to create a sense of depth or seriousness. Its subdued nature makes it a versatile choice for backgrounds, accents, or when a subtle, understated color is desired.
The hex color #140408, a very dark, almost black shade, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its extremely low luminance results in poor contrast against most background colors, especially white and light tones. This lack of contrast makes it difficult for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness, to discern text or graphical elements rendered in this color. Web developers should avoid using #140408 for text or important interface elements unless paired with a very light or bright contrasting color to ensure sufficient readability. Tools like contrast checkers can help determine if the contrast ratio meets WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. Failure to meet these standards can exclude users and create a frustrating or unusable experience. When using this color, ensure interactive elements have alternative visual cues beyond color alone.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #140408 can be used sparingly as a background color for specific sections to create a sense of depth or sophistication. It can also be used for decorative elements like lines or borders to add a subtle touch of elegance. However, it's crucial to avoid using it for large blocks of text or interactive elements due to its poor contrast. Instead, pair it with a light, contrasting color for headings or call-to-action buttons to ensure readability and usability. When used thoughtfully, #140408 can enhance the visual appeal of a website without compromising accessibility.
Interior Design
In interior design, #140408 can serve as a grounding element in a room. Imagine a feature wall painted in this deep asphalt hue, offset by lighter greys and creams for furniture and accents. The dark color creates a sophisticated, cozy atmosphere. It's particularly well-suited for bedrooms or home theaters where a sense of enclosure is desired. Accessorize with metallic elements like brushed brass or silver to add a touch of luxury and prevent the space from feeling too heavy or dark. Remember to incorporate ample lighting to balance the intensity of the color.
Fashion
This dark color may be a great base color for outfits that should have a serious and solid appearance. In combination with dark grey, dark blue or black, this color will appear in a great solid way.