Asphalt
General Information about #17030D
The hex color #17030D, often referred to as 'Asphalt,' is a very dark, muted shade residing within the red color spectrum. Its composition primarily consists of a low concentration of red, with even lesser amounts of green and blue, resulting in its deep, almost black appearance. The color evokes a sense of depth, mystery, and grounding, reminiscent of freshly laid asphalt or a dimly lit alleyway. In color theory, #17030D conveys a sense of sophistication and understated elegance, making it suitable for designs aiming for a minimalist or serious tone. It can serve as a neutral backdrop that allows other brighter colors to stand out or contribute to an overall somber palette.
The color #17030D, a deep, muted shade, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its low luminance value of 0.006 necessitates careful consideration for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between #17030D and white text (e.g., #FFFFFF) is only 12.17:1, falling short of the minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular). Therefore, using white text directly on a #17030D background can render the text illegible for many users. For optimal accessibility, it's crucial to use a lighter color for text, such as a pale gray or off-white, to achieve an acceptable contrast ratio. Alternatively, a background color with a higher luminance value should be chosen to complement #17030D. Testing color combinations with accessibility tools and obtaining feedback from users with visual impairments are essential steps to ensure inclusive design.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #28141e
A slightly lighter shade that retains the dark, muted feel but offers better contrast against light text.
- #333333
A dark gray that provides a more neutral backdrop while remaining in a similar tonal range.
- #2b1709
A deep brown hue which offers a warmer alternative while being similar in darkness.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
Asphalt's grounding and somber tone makes it a suitable choice for website headers and footers, providing a sophisticated backdrop for navigation elements. When paired with lighter, contrasting text and strategic use of whitespace, it evokes a sense of elegance and professionalism. It is particularly effective for corporate websites or portfolios aiming for a minimalist aesthetic. It can also be used as a secondary color to add depth and dimension to designs without overwhelming the primary palette. However, care must be taken to ensure sufficient contrast with other elements to maintain readability and visual appeal.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Asphalt can be used as a primary color for minimalist, understated clothing. Think sleek dresses, tailored trousers, or elegant coats. Its neutrality allows it to pair well with a variety of other colors, from vibrant jewel tones to softer pastels, making it a versatile choice for creating sophisticated and timeless looks. It can also be used as an accent color in accessories such as belts, shoes, or handbags, adding a touch of understated elegance to any outfit. Asphalt is a great color for creating capsule wardrobes.
Interior Design
In interior design, Asphalt can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere. It pairs well with natural materials such as wood and stone, as well as metallic accents like gold or copper. It can also be used for furniture upholstery or decorative accessories like cushions and throws, adding a touch of sophistication to any space. The colour works well with a minimalist approach to design.