Asphalt
General Information about #180808 (Asphalt)
The hex color #180808, often referred to as Asphalt due to its resemblance to the dark, tarry substance used in paving, is a very dark shade of brown. It's composed of 9.4% red, 3.1% green, and 3.1% blue. In the RGB color space, it translates to (24, 8, 8). Asphalt is a color that evokes feelings of sophistication, modernity, and perhaps a touch of urban grittiness. It is often used in design to create a sense of depth and grounding, and it can serve as a neutral backdrop that allows other colors to stand out. However, due to its low luminance, it's important to use it judiciously, particularly in contexts where readability and accessibility are paramount. Its muted nature makes it a versatile color that can be incorporated into various design styles, from minimalist to industrial.
The hex color #180808, often referred to as Asphalt, presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily due to its extremely low luminance. Its dark nature results in very poor contrast against typical light backgrounds, making it difficult for individuals with visual impairments to discern text or interface elements rendered in this color. To ensure inclusivity, it is crucial to avoid using #180808 for text or important interactive elements unless paired with a very light color that meets WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) AA or AAA contrast ratio requirements. Using online contrast checkers is highly recommended to verify compliance. Furthermore, relying solely on color to convey information should be avoided; supplementary cues such as text labels or icons should be provided to enhance accessibility for all users, including those with color vision deficiencies.
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Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accents
In web design, Asphalt (#180808) can be used sparingly for decorative elements, such as subtle background accents or borders, where high contrast is not essential. Its dark and muted tone evokes a sense of sophistication and can contribute to a minimalist or industrial aesthetic. However, it's vital to ensure sufficient contrast when used near text or interactive components to maintain accessibility standards. Additionally, this color can effectively serve as a grounding element in a color palette, anchoring brighter or more vibrant hues.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Asphalt can be used to create a dramatic and moody atmosphere. It works well as an accent wall color in a modern living room or bedroom, paired with lighter neutrals and pops of color to prevent the space from feeling too dark or oppressive. Additionally, it can be incorporated through furniture and accessories, such as leather sofas, metal accents, or dark wooden elements, to add depth and sophistication to the overall design. Careful consideration of lighting is crucial to ensure the space remains inviting and balanced.
Fashion Color Palettes
In fashion design, asphalt or very dark greys and browns are used to convey an understated but upscale aura for clothing items and even accessories. Dark, muted tones like this can be used as complementary colors, or as the main focus of the outfit, as it is a versatile color that also gives off a serious, take-charge feel when used in the right context. The color is typically associated with sleek, modern styles.