Asphalt

About the Color Asphalt (#150508)

The hexadecimal color code #150508 represents a very dark shade of red. It's often referred to as 'Asphalt' due to its resemblance to the color of freshly laid asphalt or bitumen. In the RGB color model, #150508 is composed of 8.24% red, 1.96% green, and 3.14% blue. Converting this to the CMYK color model yields approximately 0% cyan, 76% magenta, 62% yellow, and 92% black. This indicates that the color is primarily composed of black with a touch of magenta and yellow to create its specific hue. Asphalt is a color that evokes feelings of strength, stability, and modernity. It is often used in designs where a serious, industrial, or urban aesthetic is desired. Due to its dark nature, this color is not the best choice for text, especially on darker backgrounds, due to accessibility concerns.

The hex color #150508, often referred to as Asphalt, presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily due to its extremely low luminance. When used as a text color, it requires a very light background to provide sufficient contrast for readability, especially for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Asphalt falls short of these recommendations when paired with many common background colors. Therefore, it is crucial to use contrast checking tools to ensure compliance. Designers and developers should consider alternative, lighter colors for text or use Asphalt sparingly for decorative elements where readability is not paramount. Thoughtful consideration of color contrast is essential to create inclusive and accessible web experiences.

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Alternative colors

Applications

• Web Design Backgrounds

  Asphalt's deep, muted tone makes it suitable for backgrounds in web design, especially when aiming for a sophisticated or industrial aesthetic. It pairs well with lighter text colors to create a strong visual contrast. Furthermore, it's a great choice for elements like navigation bars or footers, where a subtle, understated color is desired. Its dark nature allows other design elements to stand out. Ensure sufficient contrast when using it as a background, and carefully select complementary colors for a balanced design.

• Interior Design Accents

  In interior design, Asphalt can be employed for accent walls or furniture to add depth and sophistication to a room. It works particularly well in modern or minimalist spaces, complementing materials like concrete, metal, and wood. This color can be used to create a calm and grounding atmosphere, especially in bedrooms or living rooms. When used in small doses, Asphalt adds a touch of elegance without overpowering the space. Consider lighter textiles and accessories to brighten up the room and balance the dark tone.

• Fashion Accents and Outerwear

  Asphalt finds its niche in fashion as an accent color, particularly in accessories like belts, shoes, or handbags. Its dark, neutral tone makes it a versatile choice that complements a wide range of outfits. It can also be used for outerwear, such as jackets or coats, providing a sleek and modern look. In menswear, it is a popular choice for suits and formal wear, offering a sophisticated alternative to black. The use of asphalt in fashion creates an understated elegance. Because of its closeness to black it can provide a softer more interesting alternative

Complementary color

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