Asphalt
General Information about #16040C
The hex color code #16040C represents a very dark shade of red on the color spectrum. It is often described as 'Asphalt' due to its resemblance to the color of fresh asphalt. This color is composed of 8.63% red, 1.57% green, and 4.71% blue. In the RGB color model, these values translate to 22 red, 4 green, and 12 blue. The CMYK representation is 0% cyan, 82% magenta, 46% yellow, and 91% black. With a hue of 340 degrees, a saturation of 81.8%, and a lightness of 5.1%, this color is a muted and deep tone. It has a subdued appearance due to its low saturation and lightness levels, making it suitable for applications where subtlety is preferred over vibrancy.
The color #16040C, a very dark, desaturated shade of red, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its extremely low luminance (darkness) means that text or interactive elements using this color as a background will require very light text to ensure sufficient contrast. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) AA standards. Using this color for critical information or interactive elements without careful consideration of contrast can exclude users with visual impairments. When using this color, provide sufficient contrast. For web design, contrast checking tools are recommended during the design phase to ensure compliance with accessibility standards, making the content usable for everyone.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #282828
A slightly lighter and less saturated shade of grey to provide better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #220000
A darker, more saturated red that still evokes the feeling of asphalt, but provides a bit more visibility.
- #333333
A dark and more neutral shade to provide better contrast for text
Applications
Website Background
In web design, #16040C can be utilized as a background color for website sections that require a strong, grounding visual element. It could be applied in website footers or headers, where a sense of stability and subdued elegance is desired. However, it is crucial to pair this dark shade with very light text to ensure readability and accessibility. When used sparingly and thoughtfully, #16040C can create a sophisticated and professional aesthetic. It can be used to highlight important design elements with complementary light colors.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #16040C can serve as an accent color, particularly in modern or industrial-themed spaces. It can be incorporated into furniture upholstery, wall art, or decorative objects to add depth and character to a room. The color pairs well with lighter, neutral tones such as greys, creams, or whites, creating a balanced and visually appealing contrast. It could also be used as a wall-paint in combination with bright furniture or vice versa.
Fashion Design
In fashion, #16040C can be used as the main color for clothing or accessories. Its dark and mysterious hue evokes a sense of urban chic and understated sophistication. It pairs well with metallics for a bold statement or neutrals for a minimalist look.