Chathams Blue
General Information about Chathams Blue
Chathams Blue, identified by the hexadecimal color code #1E506B, is a dark, desaturated shade of blue. It evokes feelings of calmness, stability, and professionalism. In the RGB color model, it consists of 12.2% red, 31.4% green, and 41.96% blue. The color is often associated with trust and reliability, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and web design in industries such as finance and technology. Its subdued nature allows it to be versatile, pairing well with both neutral and vibrant colors. The color name is inspired by the Chathams Islands, a remote archipelago east of New Zealand. The islands are known for their unique environment and natural beauty, resonating with the calming and natural feel of the color.
The color #1E506B, also known as Chathams Blue, presents some accessibility challenges primarily due to its relatively low lightness value. When used as a background color, it requires careful consideration of the foreground text color to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between foreground and background colors should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using white or very light shades of yellow or orange as foreground text on a #1E506B background can help meet these contrast requirements. Tools like contrast checkers are essential for verifying compliance. For users with low vision or color blindness, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability and usability. Therefore, in web design and other applications, always test color combinations to ensure they are accessible to all users. Avoid pairing #1E506B with darker shades of blue, green, or gray, as this will likely result in insufficient contrast.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Chathams Blue can be used for header backgrounds or navigation bars, providing a calm and professional feel. It pairs well with light gray or white text for optimal readability. The color can also be used for subtle accents, such as button highlights or link underlines, creating a cohesive visual experience. When incorporating it, ensure that the overall color scheme maintains adequate contrast for accessibility. Consider using it with lighter complementary colors to balance the overall visual impact. Furthermore, this blue could be used to subtly emphasize calls to action or importnat information.
Interior Design
In interior design, Chathams Blue can be used to create a serene and calming atmosphere in bedrooms or living rooms. It works well as an accent wall color or for upholstery. Complementary colors like beige or light gray can be used to balance the coolness of the blue. Accessorize with natural materials such as wood or linen to enhance the calming effect. Using it sparingly can create a sophisticated and tranquil ambiance, while overusing it can make a room feel cold and unwelcoming. When applying the color ensure a light and airy room.
Branding
This shade of blue conveys a sense of calmness, trust, and professionalism which is perfect for brand identities in finance, tech, or healthcare. It can be used in logos, website design, and marketing materials. Consistent use of this color across all brand touchpoints can create a recognizable and trustworthy image. Pair it with neutral colors like white or gray for a clean and modern look, or with brighter complementary colors to make a bold statement. Consider the target audience and the message you want to convey when integrating this color into your branding strategy.