Asphalt
General Information about Asphalt (#150B06)
The hex color code #150B06 represents a very dark shade of brown, often referred to as 'Asphalt' due to its resemblance to the color of paved roads. It falls into the earth tones category, characterized by a muted, desaturated appearance. In the RGB color model, #150B06 is composed of 8.24% red, 4.31% green, and 2.35% blue. Its CMYK values are 0% cyan, 47.6% magenta, 71.4% yellow, and 91.8% black. The color's darkness is indicated by its low lightness value, making it closer to black than white on the spectrum. Because of its low saturation, it lacks vibrancy and appears muted. This color is often associated with stability, grounding, and a sense of earthiness.
The color #150B06, a very dark and desaturated shade, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in text-based contexts. Its extremely low lightness value means that it provides very little contrast against equally dark backgrounds, making it difficult for users, including those with visual impairments, to read text or distinguish elements using this color. Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) emphasize the importance of sufficient color contrast ratios. To meet WCAG standards, it's crucial to pair #150B06 with much lighter colors for text and interactive elements. Tools like contrast checkers can help determine if the contrast ratio between #150B06 and other colors meets accessibility requirements. Avoid using it as a primary background color, as prolonged exposure to such a dark shade can cause eye strain. If this color is used for decorative purposes, ensure that it does not interfere with the readability or usability of essential content.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #22160d
A slightly lighter shade, #22160d, provides a touch more visibility while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #2d1f14
Using #2d1f14 can improve readability because it is closer to the middle of the grayscale.
- #2e2117
The color #2e2117 has more contrast and keeps the earth tone of the original color.
Applications
Web Design - Dark Themes
In web design, Asphalt (#150B06) can serve as a grounding element in a darker theme. It works well for backgrounds of secondary elements or as a subtle accent color to create depth. When used sparingly, it can evoke feelings of sophistication and understated elegance. However, due to its darkness, it is best not to use it for text or interactive elements without ensuring sufficient contrast with a much lighter color. For example, a navigation bar background in Asphalt can provide a modern, sleek feel when paired with white or very light gray text.
Interior Design - Accent Color
In interior design, Asphalt can be used to create a moody and intimate atmosphere. It's suitable for accent walls, furniture, or even flooring in spaces where a sense of calm and depth is desired. When combined with natural textures like wood and stone, Asphalt can bring a touch of the outdoors inside, grounding the space and creating a sense of stability. Consider using it in bedrooms, home offices, or cozy reading nooks to evoke feelings of comfort and security. When using this color, make sure that you also use bright lights to balance it out.
Fashion - Base and Accent color
In fashion, Asphalt is a versatile color that can be used in a variety of ways. It can be used as a neutral base for creating a sophisticated and understated look, or it can be used as an accent color to add a touch of edge and drama. Asphalt is especially well-suited for outerwear, such as jackets and coats, as well as for accessories, such as bags and shoes. When used in combination with other neutral colors, such as black, white, and gray, Asphalt can create a timeless and elegant look. However, when used in combination with brighter colors, such as red, orange, and yellow, Asphalt can create a more modern and daring look.