Asphalt
General Information about #180C03
The hex color #180C03, often referred to as "Asphalt" or a similar dark shade, is a very dark hue primarily composed of red. In the RGB color model, it consists of 9.41% red, 4.71% green, and 1.18% blue. This creates a deep, muted color that is almost black, suggesting a sense of solidity and grounding. Colors like this are frequently associated with serious, reliable, and professional concepts. The color’s very low saturation and brightness give it a subtle, almost understated quality, that can be employed when one does not desire a vibrant element in the visual field. It is more commonly found in digital interfaces as an alternative to pure black, which is sometimes percieved as overwhelming.
The color #180C03, often referred to as Asphalt, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its very low luminance value necessitates careful consideration of contrast ratios. When used as text against a white background, it will fail WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) contrast tests. To ensure readability and usability, it is imperative to pair this color with much lighter hues. A minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 is generally recommended for body text, while a ratio of 3:1 is acceptable for larger text elements and user interface components. Using tools to evaluate color contrast is essential during the design process when incorporating such dark colors. Consideration should also be given to users with color deficiencies; therefore, relying solely on color to convey information should be avoided.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Backgrounds and Accents
Asphalt is suited for creating a sense of groundedness, reliability, and muted elegance. It makes it ideal for backgrounds or accent elements where you wish to avoid excessive brightness. It can also be used in the design of websites, logos, or branding materials, where a feeling of durability and strength is desired. It's also very suitable for tech products to show sophistication. Due to its subtle and understated nature, it requires strategic pairing with brighter colors to create balance and visual interest.
Interior Design Accents
In interior design, Asphalt can be employed to create a sophisticated and somewhat mysterious atmosphere. It's a good choice for accent walls, furniture pieces, or decor items. It can create a nice contrast to brighter or more vibrant elements within a space. Consider using metallic or wooden design elements to elevate the aesthetic appeal of spaces that have been designed with this color.
Fashion Apparel
In the fashion industry, asphalt provides a fantastic base for outfits, allowing other colors and accessories to pop. It also conveys a sense of sophistication and urban style. The color is commonly used for clothing, footwear, and accessories that need a dark and versatile base that evokes an edgy, modern feeling, especially in urban and streetwear designs.