Asphalt
General Information about Asphalt (#160407)
The hex color #160407, also known as Asphalt, is a very dark shade of brown, almost black. It belongs to the brown color family. In the RGB color model, #160407 is composed of 8.63% red, 1.57% green, and 2.75% blue. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 0% cyan, 81.7% magenta, 68.4% yellow, and 91.4% black. This composition results in a very dark, muted color that evokes feelings of earthiness and sophistication. Colors like Asphalt are often used to create a sense of depth and grounding in designs. The color is not part of the web safe color palette, and because of that, it may be rounded to the nearest web safe color by some very old devices. Colors near to it are various dark shades of brown and gray.
The color #160407, also known as Asphalt, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very low luminance. With such a dark hue, it provides insufficient contrast against lighter backgrounds commonly used for text and interactive elements. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Asphalt falls far short of these recommendations when paired with typical light backgrounds, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read content or distinguish interactive elements. To improve accessibility, it is crucial to pair Asphalt with very light colors, ensuring that the contrast ratio meets or exceeds the WCAG standards. Alternatives include using Asphalt sparingly for purely decorative purposes or employing it as a background color with very light or white text.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #262626
A slightly lighter shade of gray can offer better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #2f221f
A desaturated brown can provide a more natural and softer alternative while remaining dark.
- #111111
A darker gray can be used for subtle separation from surrounding elements without being as dark as Asphalt.
Applications
Website Background
Asphalt (#160407) can serve as a sophisticated background for websites or applications aiming for a dark and modern aesthetic. Its deep, muted tone evokes a sense of understated elegance and can effectively highlight lighter-colored content or interactive elements. Consider using it for headers, footers, or sidebars to create visual interest without overwhelming the user. Ensure adequate contrast with text and other elements to maintain readability and accessibility. Furthermore, Asphalt can be incorporated into a broader color palette featuring complementary or analogous colors to achieve a cohesive and visually appealing design.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Asphalt can be utilized as an accent color to add depth and sophistication to a space. It works well on walls, furniture, or decorative elements, especially when paired with lighter, warmer tones to create a balanced and inviting atmosphere. Its subdued nature makes it suitable for bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices where a calming and refined ambiance is desired. Consider incorporating textures like velvet or matte finishes to enhance the visual richness and tactile appeal of Asphalt in interior spaces. Additionally, use metallic accents like gold or copper to complement its cool undertones.
Fashion Apparel
In fashion, Asphalt can be used as a primary color for garments such as outerwear, trousers, or dresses to create a sleek and contemporary look. Its dark and neutral tone makes it a versatile choice that can be easily paired with a variety of other colors and accessories. It's particularly suitable for minimalist or urban-inspired styles. Use fabrics like leather, wool, or denim to enhance the tactile appeal and visual interest of Asphalt in fashion applications. It can also be incorporated into accessories such as handbags, shoes, or belts to add a touch of sophistication to any outfit.