Creole
General Information about Creole
The hexadecimal color code #1A0D02 represents a very dark shade of brown, often described as 'Creole'. It is composed of 10.2% red, 5.1% green, and 0.8% blue. In the RGB color model, this translates to R:26, G:13, B:2. The color has low saturation and brightness, contributing to its muted and subdued appearance. Creole is often associated with earth tones, natural materials like wood and leather, and a sense of antiquity or tradition. It can evoke feelings of warmth, stability, and groundedness. Its darkness lends itself to creating contrast with lighter colors and adding depth to designs. However, its limited brightness also means it requires careful consideration regarding accessibility and readability, especially when used for text or critical UI elements.
The color #1A0D02, also known as Creole, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its very dark hue results in a low contrast ratio against common background colors like white. This makes text and other elements using this color difficult to read, potentially causing eye strain and hindering comprehension. Web developers should avoid using #1A0D02 for text or important interface elements without carefully considering contrast. To ensure accessibility, pair it with a very light color that provides sufficient contrast (a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text, as specified by WCAG guidelines). Consider using contrast checking tools to verify the accessibility of color combinations. If the design requires a dark color, explore lighter alternatives or add a contrasting background or border to improve readability and overall user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #331a00
A slightly lighter shade of brown that provides better contrast against light backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #462307
A deep coffee color that offers a richer tone and improved readability compared to Creole.
- #260e00
Use a shade of dark brown with more red hues to bring warmth to the design.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Creole (#1A0D02) can be used sparingly as an accent color for backgrounds or borders, especially when aiming for a vintage or rustic aesthetic. However, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast with text and other interactive elements. For instance, it can serve as a background for a section header with light-colored text, creating a subtle visual separation. Avoid using it for critical information or calls to action unless paired with a very light color. Creole can also be effective in creating a dark mode theme, but careful attention must be paid to ensure all elements remain readable and accessible.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Creole can be incorporated as a grounding element in a room. It could be used for wooden furniture or as a dark accent wall in a room with lighter colored walls and accessories. To avoid making the room feel too dark, make sure there is plenty of natural light or artificial light to brighten the room. It can also be paired with warmer colors such as reds, oranges or yellows to create a more inviting feeling. This can also work well in creating contrast.
Graphic Design
In graphic design, Creole (#1A0D02) adds sophistication and depth to branding materials, packaging, and illustrations, especially when paired with complementary colors. Use it for subtle backgrounds, borders, or text elements to evoke a sense of luxury and refinement. It is well-suited for designs that aim to convey tradition, stability, or a timeless quality. The color helps to ground the design, providing a solid base for brighter or more vibrant colors to stand out. Perfect for logos or designs that require a touch of class.