Asphalt
General Information about #170C03
The hex color #170C03, often referred to as "Asphalt" due to its resemblance to the dark, tar-like substance, is a very dark shade of brown. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 9.02% red, 4.71% green, and 1.18% blue. This composition makes it a muted and subtle color, lending itself well to applications where a dark, unassuming hue is desired. The color falls into the brown color family and has a very low saturation and brightness, resulting in a color that absorbs a large amount of light. Because of its dark nature, it is not often used as the primary color in designs but more often functions as an accent, shadow, or background element to create depth and contrast.
The color #170C03, a very dark shade of brown, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a foreground color for text, it requires a very light background to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text to ensure that users with visual impairments can easily distinguish the text from the background. Therefore, it's crucial to carefully select background colors and consider using tools that assess color contrast. Furthermore, avoid using this color to convey crucial information without providing alternative cues, such as icons or labels, to accommodate users who may not be able to perceive the color difference. Proper attention to color contrast and alternative communication methods is essential for ensuring an inclusive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Design
This color can be used to create a sense of grounding and stability in website designs. Use it sparingly for backgrounds or borders to add a touch of sophistication. Due to its darkness, avoid using it extensively as it can make the design feel heavy and overwhelming. It works well with lighter, contrasting colors to create visual interest.
Logo Design
Asphalt can be used to mimic natural shadows and shades. For example, if you are creating a logo with depth, this color can be used as the darkest value in a gradient or as a subtle shadow effect to ground the logo and give it a three-dimensional feel. This is especially useful when creating logos for construction or outdoor-related businesses.
Interior Design
This color embodies a raw, industrial chic when used in interior design, especially within spaces that feature exposed brick, concrete, or metal elements. It works as a grounding accent when featured on walls, furniture, or even light fixtures. It pairs nicely with warmer tones of brown and grey to create a sophisticated and modern ambience. When properly highlighted with strategic lighting, it can evoke a sense of rugged luxury.