Karaka
General Information about Karaka (#20160B)
The hexadecimal color code #20160B represents a very dark shade of brown, often described as 'Karaka.' It is composed of 12.5% red, 8.6% green, and 4.3% blue. In the RGB color space, it signifies a muted and deep tone. This color evokes feelings of earthiness, warmth, and sophistication. It tends to have a grounding and stabilizing effect, reminiscent of natural elements like soil, wood, and dark chocolate. The color is often associated with elegance and understated luxury, as its deep and rich hue provides a sense of depth and character. It can be used to create a sense of warmth, and it has a natural and organic feel.
The color #20160B, a very dark shade of brown, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used for text, it requires a very light background to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, ideally achieving a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 as recommended by WCAG guidelines for AA compliance and 7:1 for AAA compliance. Without adequate contrast, users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness, may struggle to distinguish the text from the background. In user interface design, avoid using #20160B as a primary background color, especially if interactive elements are present. Consider using it sparingly for decorative purposes or in combination with lighter shades to maintain usability. Thoroughly test color combinations with accessibility tools to confirm compliance with accessibility standards and ensure a positive user experience for everyone.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #30261b
A slightly lighter brown that offers better contrast against white backgrounds.
- #333333
A neutral dark gray that provides a more versatile alternative for text and UI elements.
- #362f24
A deep olive green that can provide a similar earthy feel, while potentially offering slightly better contrast depending on the context.
Applications
Web Design Accents
In web design, #20160B can be used sparingly for background accents or decorative elements to evoke a sense of earthiness, sophistication, or understated luxury. It is well-suited for websites related to coffee, chocolate, or other natural products. It is also useful for creating a dark theme for websites or applications, but proper contrast ratios must be maintained to guarantee accessibility. However, use with caution as a primary text color as it requires a very light background for readability.
Interior Design
In interior design, Karaka (#20160B) can be incorporated into furniture finishes, wood detailing, or as a paint color for accent walls in spaces where a warm, grounding atmosphere is desired. It can complement natural materials like wood, stone, and leather, and it works well in libraries, studies, or home theaters to create a cozy and intimate environment. The color adds depth and richness when paired with lighter, contrasting elements.
Fashion Apparel and Accessories
In fashion, this dark brown shade can be used for leather goods like belts, shoes, and handbags, or for garments like jackets, trousers or sweaters. It serves as a versatile neutral that can be paired with a wide range of colors and styles, offering a refined and understated aesthetic. The color is often associated with quality and durability, making it a popular choice for classic and timeless pieces.