Acadia
General Information about Acadia (#1A1704)
The hexadecimal color #1A1704, often referred to as Acadia, is a very dark shade of brown. It belongs to the RGB color space, with red, green, and blue values of 26, 23, and 4 respectively. In the CMYK color model, its approximate values are 0% cyan, 11.5% magenta, 84.6% yellow, and 89.8% black. This color evokes feelings of earthiness, antiquity, and sobriety due to its close association with natural elements like soil and aged wood. It is commonly used in designs to convey a sense of history, tradition, or groundedness. However, its very dark nature requires careful consideration when used in user interfaces to ensure sufficient contrast and accessibility.
The color #1A1704, also known as Acadia, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its extremely low luminance value of approximately 0.009 results in very poor contrast against standard white backgrounds. This fails WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) AA and AAA standards for text and non-text contrast. To ensure readability and usability for all users, including those with visual impairments, it is crucial to avoid using #1A1704 for text, icons, or interactive elements without employing very light foreground colors. If this color is part of the branding, consider providing high-contrast themes or allowing users to customize the color scheme to improve accessibility. Providing alternative high-contrast options ensures inclusivity, making the content accessible to a wider audience. Careful consideration should be given to background and foreground color combinations to meet accessibility requirements and provide a positive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4E4323
A lighter shade of brown that provides better contrast while maintaining a natural, earthy feel.
- #BFA14E
A slightly desaturated tan that offers a more neutral and accessible background color.
- #343008
This color is a lighter version of the original, providing better contrast for text and other elements.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, #1A1704 can be used sparingly as an accent color to evoke a sense of earthiness or antiquity. It is best suited for backgrounds in small sections or as a subtle border. However, it should never be used for text or interactive elements due to its poor contrast ratio. Consider using it to highlight specific product categories for a more natural presentation. When used for decorative purposes, ensure it is complemented by lighter, accessible colors to maintain a balanced and user-friendly design.
Interior Design Element
In interior design, Acadia (#1A1704) can be incorporated into a room's palette to create a cozy and grounded atmosphere. It works well as a wall color in small doses or as a color for wooden furniture. To balance its darkness, pair it with lighter neutrals such as cream or beige, and introduce pops of brighter colors through accessories and artwork. This will prevent the room from feeling too heavy or somber, while still maintaining a warm and inviting feel.
Fashion Accent
In fashion, #1A1704 can be used to create a sophisticated and understated look. It is ideal for creating vintage or bohemian-inspired outfits, and can be paired with other earthy tones or natural fabrics such as linen and cotton. Consider using it for accessories like belts, bags, or shoes to add a touch of elegance to an outfit without overwhelming the overall look. It can also be incorporated into patterns for a subtle, organic appeal. It is suitable for garments like jackets or skirts, or as an accent color in prints and embellishments.