Asphalt

General Information about #160D04

The hex color code #160D04, often referred to as Asphalt, represents a very dark, muted shade of brown. In the RGB color model, it consists of 8.63% red, 5.1% green, and 1.57% blue. Its CMYK values are 0% cyan, 41% magenta, 82% yellow, and 91% black. This color evokes feelings of darkness, earthiness, and stability. Because of its muted and dark nature, it is often used to create a sense of depth and understated elegance in design. The color's low brightness and saturation contribute to its somber and grounded feel, making it suitable for applications where subtlety and sophistication are desired. Its hexadecimal format makes it easy to implement in digital designs, while its distinct characteristics ensure it stands out from standard blacks and grays.

The color #160D04, also known as Asphalt, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its extremely low luminance value means that text or interactive elements using this color as a background require very light foreground colors to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast. Insufficient contrast can render content unreadable for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is generally recommended for standard text, and 3:1 for large text. Designers and developers must diligently check contrast ratios using accessibility tools to ensure compliance. Furthermore, relying solely on color to convey information should be avoided; supplementary cues, like text labels or icons, are crucial for inclusivity. Thoughtful consideration of color choices is essential to provide an equitable user experience.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Website Background

  Asphalt (#160D04) can be used as a subtle background color for websites or applications that aim to convey a sense of sophistication and groundedness. However, due to its dark nature, it's crucial to pair it with light-colored text and elements to ensure readability and accessibility. It's best used sparingly, perhaps for headers or secondary content areas, rather than as the primary background across the entire interface. To ensure sufficient contrast, consider using a lighter shade of gray or brown as an alternative, especially for body text.

• Interior Design Accent

  In interior design, Asphalt (#160D04) can serve as a grounding element, particularly in accent walls or furniture pieces. It imparts a sense of stability and can be combined with brighter, contrasting colors to create visual interest. For example, it can be paired with warm, earthy tones or metallic accents to add depth and sophistication. Using this color in well-lit spaces is essential to prevent the room from feeling too dark. The muted quality of the color makes it a suitable choice for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere when balanced with proper lighting and complementary hues.

• Fashion Apparel

  In fashion, Asphalt (#160D04) can be utilized to create a sense of understated elegance and sophistication, especially in clothing and accessories. The dark and muted tone can be a great alternative to black when aiming for a less harsh appearance. It works particularly well in outerwear, such as coats and jackets, and can be paired with lighter colors or metallic accents to create contrast and visual interest. Given its neutral nature, it lends itself well to various styles and can be incorporated into both casual and formal attire, providing a versatile base for building different looks.

Complementary color

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