Ebony Clay
General Information about #222E3B
The hexadecimal color code #222E3B represents a dark, muted shade of gray-blue, often referred to as Ebony Clay. This color belongs to the family of near-black hues, possessing a low luminance value that lends it a sophisticated and understated quality. In the RGB (Red, Green, Blue) color model, #222E3B is composed of 13.33% red, 18.04% green, and 23.14% blue. Its CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) values are 42.4, 22.9, 0.0, and 76.9. The color is often associated with feelings of tranquility, stability, and sophistication. Due to its dark nature, it is most effectively used with lighter colors to provide adequate contrast for readability and visual appeal.
The color #222E3B, also known as Ebony Clay, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly when used as text on a white background. Its low luminance value results in a contrast ratio that may not meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for normal-sized text. This means that users with visual impairments, such as low vision or color blindness, might find it difficult to read. To improve accessibility, it's recommended to use this color for larger text sizes (e.g., headings) or to pair it with a much lighter background color to ensure sufficient contrast. When using this color for interactive elements like buttons or links, it's crucial to provide alternative visual cues, such as underlines or hover effects, to clearly indicate their interactive nature.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #333f4e
A slightly lighter shade of gray can offer improved readability while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #344553
A desaturated blue can provide a softer contrast than pure black, enhancing visual comfort.
- #080808
This color is almost black but still shows some difference. Can be used as a background color.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
Ebony Clay can be effectively used as a background color for website headers or footers, providing a sophisticated and understated look. When combined with lighter text and carefully chosen accent colors, it creates a visually appealing and professional design. The dark hue also contributes to reducing eye strain, especially for websites with prolonged user engagement. Additionally, this color works well with minimalist designs, enhancing the focus on content and improving the overall user experience. Its neutral tone allows it to blend seamlessly with various design styles, from corporate to creative portfolios.
Interior Design Accents
In interior design, #222E3B can be utilized for accent walls or furniture pieces to introduce a touch of elegance and depth to a space. It pairs well with lighter, warmer colors like beige or cream, creating a balanced and inviting atmosphere. The color's ability to absorb light makes it suitable for spaces where a sense of coziness is desired, such as bedrooms or reading nooks. Furthermore, incorporating this color in textured materials like velvet or suede can amplify its luxurious appeal and enhance the overall aesthetic of the room.
Infographics and Data Visualization
Ebony Clay is a good color for infographics since it's neutral and can be used for charts and diagrams. It provides a high level of readability when combined with white or other light colors for labels and annotations. The dark background allows data visualizations to stand out, making them easier to understand and interpret. Using this color also ensures consistency with a broader design theme, especially in corporate presentations or reports. The subtle, sophisticated tone minimizes distractions and keeps the audience focused on the information being presented.