Asphalt
General Information about Asphalt (#140A06)
The hex color #140A06, often referred to as "Asphalt," is a very dark, muted shade of brown. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 8.24% red, 3.92% green, and 2.35% blue. Its darkness results in a low luminance value, making it a challenging color for readability when used as a background. In a CMYK color model, it consists of high percentages of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black, reflecting its dark nature. Colors like Asphalt are often employed to evoke feelings of sophistication, stability, or mystery. Its subdued nature makes it suitable for applications where background elements should not overpower the foreground content. When using Asphalt, proper color contrast is crucial to consider.
The hex color #140A06, also known as Asphalt, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its low luminance. With such a dark shade, using it as a background color necessitates very light text to ensure readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text according to WCAG guidelines. Insufficient contrast can severely impair the experience for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. It's crucial to test color combinations with accessibility tools to avoid making content inaccessible. Using darker shades for extended reading or user interface elements is generally discouraged because of eye strain. Ensure sufficient spacing between elements using this color to maintain usability.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Industrial UI Design
Asphalt (#140A06) can be used to create a sophisticated and grounded user interface for applications that require a serious or industrial feel. It's suitable for dashboards displaying complex data, providing a calm visual foundation that reduces eye strain. In website design, Asphalt can serve as an accent color in headers or footers to create a strong visual anchor. It pairs well with lighter colors and strategic pops of brighter colors to draw attention to key elements. The color is best used in moderation, focusing on elements where a sense of stability is desired.
Urban Fashion and Interior Accents
In fashion, Asphalt (#140A06) can be incorporated into clothing and accessories to create an edgy, urban aesthetic. It's an excellent choice for outerwear like jackets or boots, providing a versatile neutral that can be easily paired with a wide range of colors. In interior design, Asphalt can be used for accent walls, furniture upholstery, or flooring to add depth and sophistication to a space. It works particularly well in minimalist or industrial-inspired interiors. Accessorize with metallic or brightly colored elements to add contrast and visual interest.
Dramatic Beauty Looks
In the realm of beauty and cosmetics, Asphalt (#140A06) can be used to create dramatic and intense looks, particularly in eye makeup. It's a popular color for eyeliner, eyeshadow, and eyebrow pencils, providing depth and definition to the eyes. When used in nail polish, Asphalt offers a sleek and modern alternative to traditional black or gray shades. Combining Asphalt with shimmering or metallic shades can elevate the look for evening wear. When using Asphalt in beauty applications, consider individual skin tones and preferences to create personalized and flattering styles.