Chathams Blue
General Information
Chathams Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #1B4C7C, is a deep and calming shade of blue. It belongs to the family of blue colors and is often associated with feelings of trust, stability, and professionalism. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 10.6% red, 29.8% green, and 48.6% blue. This particular shade of blue is named after the Chatham Islands, a remote archipelago in the Pacific Ocean, known for its rugged beauty and tranquil atmosphere. The color evokes a sense of depth and sophistication, making it a popular choice in various design applications, ranging from web development to interior design. Its relatively low saturation and luminance contribute to its understated elegance and versatility, allowing it to be easily combined with other colors.
The hex color #1B4C7C, also known as Chathams Blue, presents specific accessibility considerations for web developers. Its relatively dark hue means it needs to be paired with a light color for text or interactive elements to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Using a color contrast checker is crucial to verify compliance. When used as a background, light-colored text such as white or very light gray would be suitable. Avoid pairing it with other dark colors, as this would render content illegible for users, especially those with visual impairments. Also, it's beneficial to consider color blindness when selecting color pairings. This particular shade of blue should be tested with tools that simulate different types of color blindness to confirm that critical information remains distinguishable.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #34688e
A slightly lighter blue that still evokes a sense of calm but provides better contrast against dark backgrounds.
- #4a647a
A desaturated blue that offers a more neutral tone, suitable for backgrounds where the primary focus is on content.
- #2962ff
A vibrant blue for cases where a strong accent color is needed, ensure sufficient contrast for accessibility.
Applications
Website Design
Chathams Blue, with its calming and professional feel, is excellent for designing website headers and navigation bars. Its deep hue provides a sense of stability and trustworthiness, making it a solid choice for businesses in finance, technology, or education. Using it as a background color for call-to-action buttons, paired with a contrasting text color, can draw attention and encourage user interaction. It also works well for highlighting important sections or creating visual separation within a webpage, contributing to a more organized and user-friendly design. Additionally, it can be used for icons and other graphical elements, adding a touch of sophistication to the overall aesthetic.
Interior Design
In the realm of interior design, #1B4C7C can be used to create a serene and sophisticated atmosphere. It works particularly well in bedrooms or studies, promoting relaxation and concentration. Consider using it as an accent wall color, complemented by neutral tones like beige or gray for the other walls. Upholstering furniture in this color, such as a sofa or armchair, can add a touch of elegance to a living room. When paired with natural materials like wood or stone, it creates a harmonious and inviting space. Accents of gold or brass can further enhance its richness and depth, elevating the overall design scheme.
Fashion Design
Chathams Blue, #1B4C7C, can be incorporated into fashion design to create a classy and sophisticated look. This color is suitable for dresses, suits, or even accessories like scarves and handbags. Its depth and richness make it a versatile choice for both formal and casual wear. It pairs well with neutral colors like white, gray, and black, as well as with metallic accents like silver and gold. Using it in combination with lighter shades of blue can create a monochromatic effect, adding depth and interest to the outfit. It is also a great color for corporate wear, as it emanates professionalism and trust.