Asphalt
General Information about #18030C
The hexadecimal color #18030C, often referred to as Asphalt, is a very dark, desaturated shade of red. It's composition consists of 9.41% red, 1.18% green, and 4.71% blue. In the RGB color model, it is represented as (24, 3, 12). Asphalt is often associated with sophistication, depth, and a sense of grounding. It's typically used in designs where a subtle, yet impactful, color is desired. Due to its dark nature, it serves as a good background color when paired with lighter text or elements to create contrast. It should be carefully used in designs where color recognition is essential due to its muted tone and should always be checked against accessibility standards to ensure readability.
The color #18030C, also known as Asphalt, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially when used for text or interactive elements. Its very low luminance value (close to black) requires extremely light foreground colors to achieve sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is needed for normal text and 3:1 for large text to ensure readability for users with moderate visual impairments. Using #18030C as a background color necessitates careful selection of foreground text colors, and even then, achieving the required contrast may be difficult. It's advisable to use color contrast checking tools to verify compliance. If sufficient contrast cannot be achieved, consider using a lighter shade or a different color altogether to ensure accessibility for all users. For decorative purposes, where the color is not essential for conveying information, these strict contrast requirements may be relaxed.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Background
In web design, Asphalt (#18030C) can be used as a background color for headers or footers to create a sophisticated and grounding effect. Due to its dark nature, it works best when paired with bright, contrasting text and visual elements, such as white or light gold, to ensure readability and visual appeal. It's suitable for websites targeting a mature audience, luxury brands, or those aiming to convey a sense of stability and understated elegance. This color can also be incorporated into button designs, icons, or decorative elements to add depth and visual interest to the overall aesthetic, taking care to maintain adequate contrast ratios.
Accent Wall Color
In interior design, Asphalt can be used as an accent wall color in a modern living room or bedroom to create a dramatic and cozy atmosphere. It pairs well with metallic accents like copper or brass and can be complemented with lighter furniture pieces and textiles in shades of gray, beige, or cream. This color choice evokes a sense of warmth and sophistication, making it suitable for spaces designed for relaxation and entertainment. It is important to balance the darkness of Asphalt with ample lighting and reflective surfaces to prevent the space from feeling too enclosed or somber.
Fashion Outerwear
In fashion, #18030C can be utilized as a primary color for outerwear, such as jackets or coats, to convey a sense of understated luxury and versatility. This dark hue serves as a neutral base that complements a wide range of colors and styles, making it a practical choice for wardrobe staples. When incorporated into accessories like handbags or shoes, it adds a touch of sophistication and timelessness to any ensemble. To create a balanced look, consider pairing Asphalt-colored garments with lighter or brighter separates in shades of ivory, blush pink, or emerald green.