Outer Space
General Information about #223540
The hex color #223540, also known as Outer Space, is a dark, muted shade that evokes feelings of sophistication and depth. It belongs to the family of dark gray colors and carries a sense of neutrality and understated elegance. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 13.33% red, 21.96% green, and 25.1% blue. This combination results in a color that is both calming and grounding. Its dark nature makes it a versatile choice for backgrounds and accents, especially in designs that aim for a professional or serious tone. The color name "Outer Space" suggests a connection to the vastness of the cosmos, further enhancing its sense of depth and mystery. The name and the color itself can be used to create an ambience of elegance, serenity, and reliability.
The hex color #223540, also known as Outer Space, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used for text. Its low luminance value means that it requires careful consideration of contrast ratios. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments to be able to perceive content effectively. When using #223540 as a background color, it's essential to pair it with a light-colored text to ensure a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Tools like contrast checkers can help in verifying these ratios. Avoid using this color for critical interactive elements like links or buttons without proper contrast, as it can render them invisible or difficult to distinguish, negatively impacting usability. Also, provide alternative visual cues besides color for important information.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #334756
A slightly lighter shade of gray can offer a similar aesthetic while improving contrast and readability, especially for text elements.
- #344652
A desaturated blue can evoke a similar mood but with potentially better accessibility, offering a subtle visual distinction.
- #445566
For backgrounds, a lighter neutral gray will maintain a professional look and improve readability when pairing it with darker fonts.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #223540 can be used for header backgrounds or as a secondary color to create a sophisticated and professional aesthetic. Its dark tone works well in creating depth and visual interest, especially when complemented with lighter accent colors for improved readability and user experience. It is important to ensure sufficient contrast when placing text or interactive elements over this background color. In User Interface, this color can be used to create toolbars that are comfortable to the eye when combined with a brighter secondary accent color.
Interior Design
In interior design, #223540 can serve as an elegant wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, providing a calming and grounded atmosphere. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, creating a harmonious balance. Accessorize with lighter-colored furniture and textiles to brighten the space and prevent it from feeling too dark or monotonous. The color can be used in decorative elements to bring a natural elegance to interior spaces and can be combined with plants to bring freshness to a room.
Graphic Design
In graphic design, #223540 is a good option for background color in minimalist posters. It creates a serious look and provides a good medium for white or slightly brighter text. Also, the color can be used in infographics to create a professional and confident impression. This dark shade works particularly well for data visualizations, where clarity and readability are paramount. Ensure that the color scheme remains accessible and does not impede the viewer's understanding of the information being presented by maintaining high contrast.