Asphalt
General Information about #160506
The hex color #160506, often referred to as "Asphalt," is a very dark, desaturated shade of brown. In the RGB color model, it consists of 8.63% red, 1.96% green, and 2.35% blue. This composition places it within the realm of near-black hues, leaning slightly towards the red spectrum. The color's darkness results in a low luminance value, making it appear almost black to the human eye. Colors like asphalt are often associated with industrial or urban environments, conveying a sense of strength and stability. However, its muted nature requires careful consideration when used in design, especially regarding accessibility and contrast with other elements. The web color is subtle but can work as background for many design ideas. It's used to provide contrast to the colors, which are placed on top.
The hex color #160506, also known as Asphalt, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its extremely low luminance value. Its contrast ratio against white is very poor, making text and other elements rendered in this color difficult to read for users with normal vision. For individuals with low vision or color blindness, the legibility is further compromised. In web design, it is crucial to avoid using #160506 for text, icons, or interactive elements unless paired with a very light background to ensure sufficient contrast. Tools like contrast checkers can help evaluate whether the color combination meets accessibility standards such as WCAG. If using #160506 for decorative purposes, ensure it does not convey crucial information that would be inaccessible to some users. Adhering to accessibility guidelines ensures inclusivity and a better user experience for everyone.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Asphalt (#160506) can be utilized sparingly to create a sophisticated and moody atmosphere. It's best suited for backgrounds or accents in sections where readability isn't paramount, such as hero sections or footers. To ensure accessibility, pair it with high-contrast text and interactive elements. For instance, a website for a luxury brand might use Asphalt as a background color, combined with white or cream-colored text and gold accents, to evoke a sense of elegance and exclusivity. The color can be used to create contrast with other brighter colors. This combination allows the website to be visually appealing while maintaining a usable interface.
Interior Design
In interior design, Asphalt (#160506) serves as a grounding neutral, bringing depth and sophistication to a space. It works well in modern and minimalist designs, where it can be paired with lighter neutrals and pops of color to create visual interest. For example, in a living room, Asphalt could be used as the wall color, complemented by light gray furniture, white trim, and vibrant artwork. It can also be incorporated through textiles, such as rugs, cushions, or throws, to add texture and warmth. Its dark tone can work as background to make vibrant colors more prominent.
Fashion
In fashion, Asphalt (#160506) offers a versatile alternative to black, lending an edgy yet refined touch to garments and accessories. This dark hue can be used for staple pieces like trousers, jackets, or dresses, providing a sleek and modern silhouette. It can also be incorporated in accessories such as belts, shoes, or handbags, to add a subtle touch of sophistication to an outfit. Asphalt can be combined with brighter colors like red, blue, or green to create contrast and visual impact. The color is subtle, but can be a good choice for any designer.