Acadia
General Information about Acadia (#171104)
The hexadecimal color code #171104, commonly referred to as Acadia, represents a very dark shade of brown. It is composed of 9.02% red, 6.67% green, and 1.57% blue. In the RGB color model, it is described as (23, 17, 4). This color has a subdued, earthy feel, often associated with natural elements like wood, soil, and coffee. Due to its low lightness value, it is considered a dark color. In the HSV/HSB color model, Acadia has a hue of 31 degrees, a saturation of 82.61%, and a brightness of 9.02%. It's crucial to consider its low brightness when using it in design, particularly concerning contrast and readability.
The hex color #171104, also known as Acadia, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in text-based applications. Its very low lightness value (dark brown) means that it requires a very light foreground color to meet the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) contrast ratio requirements for readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is needed for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using this color for text or important UI elements without careful consideration of contrast can exclude users with visual impairments. It's essential to use tools to verify sufficient contrast. Furthermore, its low brightness makes it unsuitable as a primary background color for extensive reading, as it can cause eye strain. Alternative color palettes with higher contrast or using this color sparingly as an accent are highly recommended for ensuring inclusive design.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Acadia (#171104) can be utilized sparingly as a background accent for headers or footers to create a sophisticated and earthy feel. It's particularly suitable for websites related to nature, organic products, or luxury brands. However, due to its darkness, it should be paired with light-colored text (e.g., white or very light beige) to ensure readability and accessibility. Avoid using it for large blocks of text or as the primary background color for the entire page, as it can strain the eyes. Consider employing it in combination with other natural tones like beige, green, or gold to create a harmonious and balanced color scheme.
Interior Design
In interior design, Acadia (#171104) can be applied as a deep, grounding accent color in spaces seeking a natural and luxurious ambiance. It works well for furniture pieces like leather sofas or wooden cabinets, adding a touch of sophistication. When used on walls, it's best suited for accent walls or smaller areas to prevent the room from feeling too dark. It pairs beautifully with lighter, warmer colors such as cream, beige, or gold to create balance and visual interest. Incorporating natural textures like wood, stone, or linen further enhances the earthy and inviting atmosphere.
Fashion
In fashion, Acadia (#171104) can serve as a sophisticated and grounding color, particularly for accessories like leather belts, boots, or handbags. It lends a touch of understated luxury to outfits, especially when paired with lighter or brighter colors. For clothing, it's suitable for outerwear such as jackets or coats, providing a warm and earthy tone. Due to its dark nature, it's best to avoid using it for entire outfits, as it can appear overwhelming. Instead, use it as a complementary color to create contrast and depth. Natural fabrics like wool, leather, or cotton complement the color well.