Asphalt
About Asphalt (#15100A)
The hex color #15100A, often referred to as Asphalt, is a very dark shade of brown or gray. It belongs to the family of neutral colors and is characterized by its low saturation and luminance values. In the RGB color model, it consists of 8.24% red, 6.27% green, and 3.92% blue. This color is frequently associated with urban landscapes, industrial settings, and a sense of sophistication and modernity. Its muted nature makes it a versatile choice for backgrounds, accents, and other design elements where a subtle and understated aesthetic is desired. The hexadecimal system represents colors using a combination of six alphanumeric characters, where each pair represents the intensity of red, green, and blue components.
The hex color #15100A, also known as Asphalt, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its low luminance. Its dark nature results in very poor contrast against typical light backgrounds, such as white (#FFFFFF). This lack of contrast makes text and other elements using this color difficult to read, especially for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Asphalt falls far short of these recommendations, potentially excluding a significant portion of users. When using this color, it's crucial to pair it with very light foreground colors to achieve sufficient contrast. Alternatively, consider using a lighter shade of gray or a different color altogether to ensure your content is accessible to everyone. Careful consideration is required to ensure readability and usability.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of gray can offer a similar aesthetic while improving contrast and readability.
A dark charcoal color provides a sophisticated look with better accessibility.
If your website allows, consider that users might want to switch to a dark mode that provides sufficient contrast with lighter fonts.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Asphalt can be used sparingly for backgrounds or accents when paired with high-contrast text. It evokes a sense of sophistication and modernity. However, it should not be used for critical interactive elements or extensive blocks of text due to accessibility concerns. Instead, consider using it for decorative purposes, such as subtle borders or background textures, to add depth to your design without compromising usability. Ensure adequate contrast with surrounding elements by using a color contrast checker tool.
Interior Design Feature
In interior design, Asphalt can be used for walls, furniture, or accessories to create a modern and industrial aesthetic. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and metal, as well as brighter accent colors. For example, a living room with Asphalt walls could feature a natural wood coffee table and bright yellow throw pillows. This color is an excellent background for various styles, including Scandinavian, modern, industrial and mid-century styles. When combined with the correct textures and materials it adds an unparalelled class to any ambient.
Fashion Staple
In fashion, Asphalt can be used for clothing, footwear, or accessories to create a sophisticated and understated look. It works well as a neutral base that can be paired with a variety of colors and patterns. For example, an Asphalt-colored dress can be paired with bright red heels and a statement necklace. Or, this hex color could be used as a pair of stylish trousers, combined with a black or white shirt to create contrast.