Asphalt
General Information about #170903
#170903 is a very dark shade of brown, often described as 'Asphalt' due to its resemblance to the color of paved roads. This color belongs to the brown color group, it's characterized by its low saturation and luminance, making it appear almost black. In the RGB color model, #170903 consists of 9.02% red, 3.53% green, and 1.18% blue. In the CMYK color model, it comprises 0% cyan, 61% magenta, 87% yellow, and 91% black. The color is not commonly used in isolation due to its darkness but can be effective as an accent or background color when paired with lighter, contrasting shades. Its muted tone makes it suitable for designs that aim for a subtle, sophisticated, and understated aesthetic, often evoking a sense of seriousness and stability. The low red component makes it appear dark and muted.
The color #170903, a very dark shade of brown, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in text-based applications. Its extremely low luminance results in very poor contrast against most background colors, including white. This makes it difficult for users with visual impairments, such as those with low vision or color blindness, to distinguish text or other elements using this color. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet WCAG AA standards. #170903 falls far short of these recommendations against nearly any light background. To improve accessibility, it is crucial to pair this color with much lighter shades or avoid using it for text or interactive elements altogether. Consider using it sparingly as a background accent or in purely decorative contexts where legibility is not critical. Providing alternative high-contrast themes is also advisable to ensure inclusivity for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accents
In web design, #170903 can be employed sparingly as a background for specific sections to create a sense of depth or sophistication. Given its darkness, it is best suited for areas where text is minimal or absent, such as headers or footers with simple icons. When used as a background, ensure that all foreground elements have sufficient contrast, ideally using bright whites or light yellows for text and icons. It can also be used to create an elegant dark theme for applications or websites, offering users a visually comfortable experience, especially in low-light environments. However, consider providing a light theme as an alternative for users who prefer higher contrast.
Interior and Fashion Accents
In interior design, #170903 can serve as an accent color for walls or furniture, creating a grounding and sophisticated atmosphere. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, as well as metallic accents in gold or copper. The color could create a dramatic effect in a dimly lit room. Use it on a single wall to keep a room from feeling too closed in. In fashion, #170903 is an excellent choice for leather goods, outerwear, and accessories that convey a sense of timeless elegance and durability.
Brand Identity
In branding, #170903 can be employed to convey a sense of tradition, stability, and reliability. It works well for companies that want to project an image of strength and longevity. This color is appropriate for financial institutions or companies that work with construction. Ensure that there is balance with lighter hues to avoid an overwhelming or somber feel.