Asphalt
General Information about #1C0408
The hex color code #1C0408 represents a very dark shade of red, often described as 'Asphalt' due to its resemblance to the color of aged asphalt. It's composed of 11% red, 2% green, and 3% blue. In the RGB color space, this translates to R:28, G:4, B:8. The color has a low saturation and luminance, making it appear almost black in some contexts. The CMYK values are C:0, M:0.86, Y:0.71, K:0.89. This color is rarely used as a primary color due to its darkness but can be used as an accent color, especially in designs aiming for a subtle or sophisticated look. Its hexadecimal nature defines its precise representation in digital environments, ensuring consistency across various displays and platforms. Understanding its composition helps designers make informed decisions about its use and its impact on the overall visual appeal.
The hex color #1C0408, a very dark, desaturated red, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its extremely low luminance makes it unsuitable for use as text on a white or light-colored background, as the contrast would be far below the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) recommended ratios. Users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness, would find it difficult or impossible to read. Similarly, using this color as a background for light text would also pose accessibility issues. To ensure accessibility, #1C0408 should primarily be used for decorative purposes or in situations where its darkness does not impede readability, such as in large graphical elements. When used alongside text or interactive elements, a high-contrast ratio with a very light color, like white or a pale yellow, is absolutely essential. Careful consideration of font sizes and weight is also crucial to improve readability. It is recommended to use accessibility evaluation tools to verify sufficient contrast ratios before deploying this color in user interfaces.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e080c
A slightly lighter shade of dark red can improve visibility without significantly changing the aesthetic.
- #333333
A dark grey offers a more neutral and accessible alternative for backgrounds or elements where high contrast is needed.
- #30140E
A dark brown can provide a similar earthy tone with slightly better readability.
Applications
Subtle Accents in Web Design
In web design, #1C0408 can serve as an accent color for borders or dividers, especially in dark-themed websites. It adds a subtle, sophisticated touch without overwhelming the user interface. Its deep, muted tone is suitable for creating a sense of depth or shadow in design elements. However, it should be used sparingly and not for primary text or interactive components due to accessibility concerns. Careful attention must be paid to the contrast ratios to ensure usability for all users.
Accent Walls in Interior Design
In interior design, #1C0408 can be used for accent walls or decorative elements in a room with ample lighting. Its dark hue creates a sense of warmth and intimacy, making it suitable for bedrooms or home theaters. Pairing it with lighter colors like beige or cream can balance the darkness and prevent the room from feeling too enclosed. The color's richness also complements natural materials like wood and leather, enhancing the overall aesthetic.
Evening Wear in Fashion
In fashion, #1C0408 can be incorporated into clothing designs for evening wear or accessories. Its dark, mysterious quality evokes a sense of elegance and sophistication. It can be used as a base color for dresses or jackets, or as an accent color for belts or shoes. When paired with metallic accents like gold or silver, it creates a luxurious and glamorous look. The color also works well with textured fabrics like velvet or silk, adding depth and dimension to the design.