Asphalt
General Information
The hex color #180b04, often referred to as Asphalt, is a very dark, muted shade of brown with a near-black appearance. It belongs to the dark color family and evokes feelings of depth, seriousness, and sophistication. In the RGB color model, #180b04 consists of 9.41% red, 4.31% green, and 1.57% blue. In the CMYK color model, it is comprised of 0% cyan, 54% magenta, 83% yellow, and 91% black. This composition contributes to its rich, dark tone. Colors like #180b04 are frequently used to create a sense of mystery or luxury in design projects. Given its dark nature, it is crucial to use it judiciously and pair it with lighter colors to maintain visual balance and ensure readability, especially in contexts like web design or print media.
The hex color #180b04, also known as Asphalt, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially for users with visual impairments. Its very low luminance value of approximately 0.008 makes it a very dark color, offering extremely poor contrast against light backgrounds. According to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), sufficient contrast is crucial for readability and usability. Text or interactive elements using #180b04 on a white or light-colored background will likely fail WCAG's contrast ratio requirements, potentially causing difficulties for users with low vision or color blindness. To improve accessibility, consider using lighter text colors such as white or very light grays on this dark background. Alternatively, avoid using this color for text altogether and reserve it for purely decorative elements where its impact on usability is minimal. Implementing these adjustments enhances the overall experience for a broader audience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design - Sophisticated Backgrounds
In web design, #180b04 can be utilized to create a sophisticated and somber atmosphere, especially in website headers, footers, or as an accent color for backgrounds. Its depth suggests elegance and can be paired with lighter colors to create a striking visual hierarchy. When using this color, ensure that the text or interactive elements are adequately contrasted to meet accessibility standards. Additionally, its dark nature can complement minimalist designs, emphasizing other design elements and content. The use of #180b04 in website themes evokes a sense of luxury or mystery, which can be particularly useful for brands aiming for a premium image.
Interior Design - Grounding Color
In interior design, Asphalt (#180b04) can be used as a grounding color for walls or furniture, particularly in spaces intended for relaxation or contemplation, such as bedrooms or studies. Its dark tone absorbs light, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere. It works best when combined with lighter accents such as gold or cream to prevent the space from feeling too dark or oppressive. Textures, such as velvet or matte finishes, can enhance the depth of this color, adding visual interest. For example, a statement wall painted in #180b04 paired with light-colored artwork can create a focal point in a room.
Fashion Applications
In the realm of fashion, this dark hue serves as an excellent base for creating impactful and timeless outfits. It can be used for dresses, trousers, or outerwear, providing a blank canvas for accessorizing with bolder colors or statement jewelry. The color evokes a sense of sophistication and formality, making it suitable for both professional and evening wear. Consider pairing it with metallic accents like silver or gold for an elegant touch or with vibrant hues for a bold contrast. This color is especially effective in creating a slimming silhouette, and its versatility makes it a staple in any wardrobe.