Asphalt
General Information about Asphalt (#140804)
The hex color #140804, also known as Asphalt, is a very dark shade of brown, almost black. It is composed of 7.84% red, 3.14% green, and 1.57% blue. In the RGB color space, it is close to black, and visually, it evokes feelings of darkness, strength, and understated elegance. Colors similar to asphalt are often used to represent industrial themes, urban landscapes, and a sense of durability. In color theory, #140804, being a dark shade, is associated with seriousness and can bring a sense of stability to designs. However, its use requires careful consideration, as its low luminance can pose challenges for accessibility. When used in design, it's typically paired with lighter or brighter colors to create contrast and visual interest.
The hex color #140804, often referred to as Asphalt, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very low luminance. Its dark nature means that text or interactive elements using this color as a background would require extremely light foreground colors to ensure readability and usability. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast between foreground and background colors is crucial for users with visual impairments. To meet accessibility standards, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text is recommended. Given the darkness of #140804, achieving these ratios requires careful selection of foreground colors and may necessitate the use of color contrast tools to verify compliance. Designers and developers should also consider providing alternative color schemes to accommodate users with different visual preferences or needs.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of gray can provide better contrast and readability, while still maintaining a muted and sophisticated feel.
A dark brown can offer a similar aesthetic to asphalt, but with potentially improved contrast depending on the specific hue.
Using true black (#000000) as a background color ensures maximum contrast with light text. It's a safe choice for ensuring readability.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
Asphalt, represented by the hex color #140804, can be effectively used in website design to create a sense of sophistication and urban grit. It can serve as a background for sections highlighting testimonials or case studies, particularly for companies in the construction, engineering, or urban planning sectors. Using it sparingly as a background color for specific website sections and combining it with lighter text creates a professional look. It's crucial to pair this dark color with sufficiently bright text to maintain accessibility standards.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Asphalt can be used as an accent wall color in modern or industrial-themed spaces. It works especially well in rooms with ample natural light, where its darkness won't make the space feel too cramped. Complementing it with metallic accents and light-colored furniture can create a balanced and visually appealing environment. This color can also be used for smaller elements, such as picture frames or decorative pieces, to add a touch of urban edge without overwhelming the room.
Fashion Design
In the fashion industry, the hex color #140804 can represent a dark neutral in clothing designs. It offers a dark and sophisticated alternative to black, suitable for creating minimalist and elegant garments. Consider incorporating this color into outerwear, such as coats or jackets, to evoke a sense of ruggedness. This can also be an excellent color for footwear like boots, creating a bold yet functional aesthetic. Combining it with lighter shades or accent colors such as silver or gold can add visual interest.