Ebony Clay
General Information about Ebony Clay (#212C36)
The hex color #212C36, also known as Ebony Clay, is a dark, muted shade that resides in the realm of grays within the color spectrum. It is composed of 12.9% red, 17.3% green, and 21.2% blue. In the RGB color space, it is relatively balanced, contributing to its neutral appearance. This color evokes feelings of sophistication, tranquility, and understated elegance. Due to its dark nature, it is often used as a background color or as a base for designs where a subtle and non-distracting presence is desired. Its neutrality makes it versatile and adaptable to various design contexts, from web design to interior decorating.
The hex color #212C36, also known as Ebony Clay, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it requires very light text to ensure readability for individuals with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is essential for text to be easily discernible. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Therefore, when using #212C36, careful consideration must be given to the foreground text color to meet these standards. Tools are available to check contrast ratios and ensure compliance, which is crucial for inclusive design. Using this color for decorative elements is less critical, but for interactive elements like buttons, sufficient contrast is still vital.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #333333
A slightly lighter shade of gray that provides better contrast and readability while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #2c3e50
A dark blue-gray that offers a similar muted feel but with a hint of color, making it visually interesting.
- #343a40
A muted dark grey providing a neutral backdrop that is less harsh than pure black.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
Ebony Clay, or #212C36, can serve as an elegant and understated background color for websites, particularly those aiming for a sophisticated and professional look. It works well in the technology, finance, or consulting industries. The color provides a dark backdrop that can make lighter text and design elements stand out. In addition, it is a popular choice for website headers, footers, and sidebars because it complements a wide range of accent colors, allowing for flexible design choices. The key is to pair it with contrasting elements for a visually balanced website.
Interior Design
#212C36, being a dark and muted color, is very appropriate in interior design for creating a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It can be used as a wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to provide a sense of depth and coziness. It also works well for furniture upholstery, such as sofas or chairs, adding a touch of elegance to the space. Complementary colors, like mustard yellow or teal, can be introduced through cushions, artwork, or other decorative accessories to provide contrast and visual interest, preventing the space from feeling too monotonous.
Fashion Design
In fashion, #212C36 can be used as a versatile base color for creating stylish and elegant outfits. It works well for garments like jackets, trousers, or skirts, providing a neutral backdrop for other colors and accessories. This color is particularly effective in creating minimalist or monochromatic looks. To add visual interest, it can be paired with textures such as leather, wool, or silk. The color can also be accented with brighter colors or metallic accessories to create a more striking and fashionable appearance.