Mallard
General Information about #1C4215 (Mallard)
The hexadecimal color code #1C4215 represents a dark shade of green, often referred to as "Mallard" due to its resemblance to the color of a mallard duck's head. It is composed of 11% red, 26% green, and 8% blue. In the RGB color space, it is a relatively subdued color, leaning heavily towards green with minimal red and blue influence. This color evokes feelings of nature, tranquility, and sophistication. It's a versatile color that can be used in various design applications, from web design to interior decoration, where a subtle and organic feel is desired. Its dark nature makes it suitable for creating a sense of depth and grounding.
The color #1C4215, also known as Mallard, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as text on a white background. Its low lightness value (approximately 11%) means there's low contrast, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast ratios are crucial for readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. When using #1C4215 for text, consider pairing it with lighter background colors to improve contrast. If that is not possible, larger text sizes and bolding can improve readability. Conversely, using it as a background color requires very light foreground colors to achieve adequate contrast. Thorough testing with accessibility tools is recommended to ensure compliance with accessibility standards and accommodate users with diverse visual needs.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #347C1B
A slightly brighter green, this provides better contrast while maintaining a natural feel.
- #4B5320
This olive drab provides a more muted, earthy tone that still maintains a reasonable level of contrast on light backgrounds.
- #0A3D21
Darker green shade with increased saturation, enhancing visibility and providing a stronger visual presence compared to Mallard.
Applications
Web Design Accent Color
In web design, #1C4215 can be used sparingly for accent elements like borders or small icons, especially within a nature-themed website. Due to its low lightness, it should be paired with very light colors for text to ensure readability. It can also work well as a background for hero sections, provided that the text and other elements on top are bright and have sufficient contrast. Using it for interactive elements requires careful consideration of hover and active states to maintain accessibility.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #1C4215 can be used to create a calming and natural atmosphere, especially when combined with other earthy tones like browns and creams. It can be used for wall paint in rooms with ample natural light or for furniture upholstery. Consider using it as an accent color in decorative elements like cushions, rugs, or artwork to bring a touch of the outdoors inside. The dark shade is best balanced with lighter, neutral tones to prevent a space from feeling too closed in.
Military and Outdoor Gear
This shade of green is frequently found in military apparel and gear due to its camouflage properties. It offers effective concealment in wooded and vegetated environments. The muted tone helps reduce visibility in natural settings. Commonly used in outdoor equipment, such as tents and backpacks.