Te Papa Green
General Information
The hex color #173F3A, also known as Te Papa Green, is a dark, muted shade of green that evokes feelings of nature, tranquility, and sophistication. It derives its name from the Te Papa Tongarewa Museum of New Zealand, suggesting a connection to cultural heritage and the natural world. In the RGB color model, #173F3A is composed of 9.02% red, 24.71% green, and 22.75% blue. Its relatively low saturation and moderate darkness make it a versatile color for various applications, from web design to interior decor. It's commonly used in branding to convey trustworthiness and environmental consciousness, and its calming effect makes it suitable for creating relaxing environments.
The color #173F3A, also known as Te Papa Green, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly in text-based contexts. Its relatively low luminance necessitates careful consideration of contrast ratios. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal text and 3:1 for large text against its background. When using #173F3A for text, pairing it with light colors like white (#FFFFFF) or very pale yellows can achieve sufficient contrast. Conversely, avoid using it with darker shades as the contrast will likely fall below acceptable levels, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read. In graphical elements, ensure that meaningful visual differences are present besides color alone. Consider adding texture, patterns, or labels to complement color-coding and provide alternative cues for those with color vision deficiencies. Testing with accessibility tools such as contrast analyzers and screen readers is crucial to confirm compliance with accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Design
In web design, Te Papa Green can serve as a sophisticated background for website headers or footers, particularly for sites focused on nature, sustainability, or eco-friendly products. Its muted tone evokes a sense of calm and reliability, making it suitable for brands wanting to project an image of trustworthiness. Furthermore, it is well-suited for accent elements like buttons or icons, especially when paired with a complementary color for visual emphasis and improved user experience. When incorporated thoughtfully, #173F3A can contribute to a cohesive and visually appealing design.
Interior & Fashion Design
In interior design, this color can be incorporated as an accent wall in living rooms or bedrooms to bring a touch of nature indoors, fostering a relaxed atmosphere. Combine it with wooden furniture and natural fabrics to enhance its organic feel. It's also suitable for painting kitchen cabinets to achieve a modern, understated look. In fashion, Te Papa Green is a versatile color choice for garments, especially for outerwear or accessories. Its subtle hue blends well with neutral colors, making it easy to style and creating a refined, earthy aesthetic.
Branding
Te Papa Green can be a captivating choice for branding materials, where it conveys an eco-conscious and grounded impression. It's particularly effective for logos and packaging of organic food brands, environmental organizations, or sustainable product lines. The color’s natural association evokes feelings of health, tranquility, and environmental responsibility, aligning well with brand values. Used sparingly for accent colours or background elements, it adds a subtle yet impactful touch to stationery and promotional materials.