Asphalt
General Information about Asphalt (#160E05)
The hexadecimal color #160E05, commonly referred to as Asphalt, is a very dark, almost black shade. It is composed of 8.63% red, 5.49% green, and 2.75% blue. In the RGB color space, it has values of R:22, G:14, B:5. In the CMYK color space, its approximate values are C:0, M:0.364, Y:0.773, K:0.914. This color evokes feelings of seriousness and depth, often associated with urban landscapes and industrial themes. Due to its low luminosity, it requires careful consideration when used in design to ensure sufficient contrast and readability, particularly when used for text or interactive elements. Understanding its composition helps designers utilize it effectively, whether as a subtle background or a strong accent color.
The hex color #160E05, often referred to as Asphalt, presents considerable accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its extremely low luminance value makes it unsuitable for text or interactive elements without careful consideration of contrast ratios. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text against its background. #160E05 will likely fail these tests against most background colors, necessitating a lighter foreground color to ensure readability for users, including those with visual impairments. When used as a background, it's crucial to pair it with very light text or graphical elements. To improve accessibility, consider using color contrast checking tools during the design process and testing the design with users who have visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #28221e
A slightly lighter shade that provides better contrast for text while maintaining a similar dark aesthetic.
- #333333
A dark gray that offers improved visibility and accessibility compared to pure black, without straying too far from the original color's intention.
- #222222
A good option as an alternative base for design systems that need to meet accessibility requirements while keeping a dark theme.
Applications
Web Design
Asphalt (#160E05) can be used to create a sophisticated and serious website design. It's particularly suitable for pages that need to convey reliability and professionalism. Using it with a bright complementary color and careful attention to contrast, web developers can create a modern and impactful design.
Interior Design
In interior design, Asphalt can be used as an accent color for walls or furniture to provide depth and contrast in a room. It pairs well with lighter, warmer colors to prevent the space from feeling too dark. Consider using it for elements like throw pillows, rugs, or as a base for metallic accents.
Fashion
In fashion, Asphalt can serve as a versatile base color for clothing items like jackets, trousers, or skirts. It can be paired with brighter colors or metallic accessories to create a stylish and edgy look. It's especially effective when used in materials with interesting textures or finishes.