Karaka
General Information about Karaka (#18170B)
The hexadecimal color code #18170B represents a very dark shade of brown, often referred to as Karaka. It is composed of 9.4% red, 9% green, and 4.3% blue. In the RGB color model, this translates to R:24, G:23, B:11. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 0% cyan, 4.2% magenta, 54.2% yellow and 90.6% black. Its primary characteristic is its deep, muted tone, which evokes feelings of earthiness, sophistication, and understated elegance. Colors with this kind of tone appear in different types of wood barks and are often associated with Autumn. Karaka can be seen as a neutral color. Its darkness lends an air of seriousness and can give off a calm impression.
The color #18170B, also known as Karaka, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its very dark hue results in extremely low contrast against common background colors like white, making text and other elements difficult to read. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Karaka falls far short of these recommendations when paired with light backgrounds. To improve accessibility, consider using Karaka sparingly, primarily for decorative elements. When used for text or interactive elements, it's crucial to pair it with a very light color that provides sufficient contrast. Tools like contrast checkers can help evaluate and adjust color combinations to meet accessibility standards, ensuring a more inclusive user experience. Always prioritize users with disabilities by carefully selecting color palettes and testing them with accessibility tools.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of brown that offers better contrast against light backgrounds while maintaining a similar earthy tone.
A muted olive green that provides a subtle alternative for designs seeking a natural, understated feel.
A dark grey, almost black, offering a safe choice for text, while still being a sophisticated and calming color.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
Karaka, with its deep, earthy tone, can be effectively used as a background color for website sections dedicated to nature, sustainability, or organic products. Its richness creates a sense of depth and sophistication, enhancing the visual appeal of the content. Complementing it with lighter colors and natural textures can further enhance the design, creating a cohesive and inviting user experience. For example, in e-commerce sites, a chocolate company might use the color for headers to promote its organic cacao origin. This color evokes a sense of grounding and reliability.
Interior Design Accent
In the realm of interior design, Karaka can be utilized as an accent color to add warmth and depth to a room. Its subdued nature makes it suitable for walls, furniture, or decorative elements, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. When paired with natural materials like wood and stone, Karaka enhances the organic feel of the space, bringing a touch of nature indoors. It could also be considered for upholstery in a reading room or as a paint color for a home library.
Branding and Packaging
Karaka can serve as a primary color for branding materials related to organic products, rustic themes, or brands seeking a connection to nature. Its earthy tone can be incorporated into logos, packaging, and marketing materials, conveying a sense of authenticity and trustworthiness. The color could be printed on cardboard boxes to deliver a more environmentally friendly feel for online purchases or on business cards for landscaping companies.