Astronaut
General Information
The hex color #224476, also known as Astronaut, is a dark, desaturated blue that evokes feelings of calmness, sophistication, and professionalism. It belongs to the blue color family, which is often associated with trust, stability, and intelligence. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 13.33% red, 26.67% green, and 46.27% blue. This color is commonly used in corporate branding, web design, and interior design to create a sense of reliability and depth. Its subdued nature makes it versatile for various applications, providing a subtle yet impactful visual element. It is also frequently used to create a sense of depth or vastness, reminiscent of the night sky, aligning perfectly with its 'Astronaut' designation. The hexadecimal notation allows for precise color specification across different platforms and devices.
The hex color #224476, also known as Astronaut, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as a background color for text. Its relatively low luminance contrast against white text may not meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) requirements for sufficient contrast. Specifically, the contrast ratio should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. When using this color, consider pairing it with lighter shades to enhance contrast, or use it for decorative elements rather than essential text. Tools like WebAIM's contrast checker can help evaluate contrast ratios. Additionally, avoid using this color as the sole indicator for interactive elements, as colorblind users may not perceive the difference. Provide alternative cues like underlines or icons to improve accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #335588
A slightly lighter shade that provides better contrast against white text.
- #204060
A desaturated version of Astronaut, suitable for backgrounds where less color intensity is desired.
- #345689
A brighter alternative to #224476, enhancing visual appeal while retaining the essence of the original color.
Applications
Web Design
In web development, #224476 can be utilized for navigation bars, headers, and background accents to create a professional and modern look. Due to its dark nature, it pairs well with lighter text colors such as white or light gray to ensure readability. It can also be incorporated into website footers or used to highlight specific sections of a page, providing visual structure and hierarchy. Consider using it for button backgrounds with a hover effect that lightens the color, enhancing user interactivity and feedback. This color evokes a sense of trust and reliability, making it suitable for corporate or institutional websites.
Interior Design
In interior design, #224476 can serve as an accent color for walls, furniture, or decor. It is best used in moderation to avoid making a room feel too dark. Pair it with lighter neutrals like beige, cream, or light gray to create balance. Consider using it for a feature wall in a living room or bedroom, or for upholstery on chairs or sofas. Metallic accents like gold or silver can complement this color, adding a touch of elegance. This color evokes a sense of calm and sophistication, making it ideal for creating a relaxing and inviting space.
Beauty & Cosmetics
Within the beauty industry, #224476 can be used in nail polish or eye shadow palettes, offering a deep and sophisticated aesthetic. This color works especially well for creating a dramatic evening look or a bold statement. It can be paired with silver or glitter accents for a more glamorous effect. When used as an eyeliner, it provides a softer alternative to black, while still defining the eyes. Marketing materials and packaging for beauty products can also leverage this color to convey a sense of luxury and quality.