Asphalt
General Information about Asphalt (#170E03)
The hexadecimal color code #170E03, often referred to as Asphalt, is a very dark shade of brown. It is composed of 9.02% red, 5.49% green, and 1.18% blue. In the RGB color space, this equates to R:23, G:14, B:3. The CMYK color model breaks it down into 0% cyan, 39.13% magenta, 86.96% yellow, and 90.98% black. Asphalt's primary attribute is its deep, muted tone, making it suitable for applications where subtlety and depth are desired. However, its darkness necessitates careful consideration of contrast when used with other colors, particularly in contexts such as text and user interface design. The color has a very low luminance.
The color #170E03, also known as Asphalt, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its extremely low luminance results in very poor contrast against standard white backgrounds, making text and other elements virtually unreadable for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Asphalt falls far short of these requirements. To improve accessibility, it is essential to pair Asphalt with much lighter colors to achieve acceptable contrast. Utilizing tools that calculate contrast ratios can help designers ensure compliance with accessibility standards, creating a more inclusive user experience for individuals with varying visual abilities. Avoid using this color for important visual elements.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Asphalt can serve as a grounding color for accent walls or furniture. Its dark and muted tone creates a sophisticated backdrop, allowing brighter colors and textures to pop. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, enhancing a space with a sense of understated elegance. When using Asphalt, consider incorporating ample lighting to prevent the room from feeling too dark or closed off. Accent pieces in metallic finishes, such as gold or copper, can also add warmth and visual interest to the overall design scheme. Balance is key to effectively utilizing this deep shade in interior spaces.
Fashion Base Color
In fashion, Asphalt can be used as a base color for creating sophisticated and edgy outfits. Its dark hue works well with a variety of textures and materials, such as leather, denim, and knitwear. Consider pairing Asphalt-colored garments with lighter, brighter accessories to create contrast and visual interest. For example, an asphalt-colored jacket can be paired with a vibrant scarf or a statement necklace. This color is versatile and can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. It’s perfect for creating a minimalist yet stylish look.
Web Design Accent
In web design, Asphalt can be used sparingly for subtle background accents, borders, or dividers. However, due to its poor contrast against light text, it's best to avoid using Asphalt for large blocks of text or important UI elements. Instead, consider using it for decorative elements or as a secondary color in a broader color palette. When using Asphalt, always prioritize accessibility by ensuring that there is sufficient contrast between text and background colors. Tools like contrast checkers can help you verify that your color choices meet WCAG guidelines and provide a better user experience.