Gondola
General Information about Gondola
The hex color #261417, also known as Gondola, is a deep, muted shade of brown with a subtle reddish undertone. It belongs to the family of earth tones, which are generally associated with warmth, comfort, and nature. This color evokes feelings of grounding and stability. In color psychology, browns are often associated with resilience, security, and a sense of home. Gondola, with its darker hue, can also convey sophistication and elegance. It is frequently used in designs that aim to create a sense of understated luxury and sophistication. The color works particularly well in combination with lighter shades of brown, cream, or gold, creating a harmonious and balanced palette. It's a versatile color that can be used effectively in a variety of design applications.
The hex color #261417, also known as Gondola, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly when used for text or interactive elements. Its low luminance and contrast against typical background colors like white can make it difficult for users with visual impairments to perceive content effectively. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast ratios are crucial for readability and usability. For small text, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended, while large text requires a ratio of 3:1. Gondola may not meet these requirements when paired with lighter backgrounds. To enhance accessibility, consider using Gondola sparingly, especially for critical information. If using it for text, ensure a high contrast ratio by pairing it with a very light or white color for the background. Also, make sure that non-text elements, like icons or buttons, have a contrast ratio of at least 3:1 against adjacent colors.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #332225
A slightly lighter shade that maintains the richness while improving contrast against light backgrounds.
- #1a0a0d
A darker shade for backgrounds when a very dark color is needed, ensuring text placed on top has sufficient contrast.
- #362427
This color provides a softer, more muted tone while staying within a similar color family.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Gondola can be utilized as an accent color to evoke a sense of sophistication and warmth. Consider using it for headers, borders, or decorative elements. However, it's crucial to ensure adequate contrast with text and other interactive components to maintain accessibility standards. Due to its dark nature, pairing it with lighter shades for text and interactive elements is crucial. Use it to create a visual hierarchy and highlight key sections of the page. Additionally, Gondola can be effectively employed in website footers or sidebars, providing a grounding effect and enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal.
Branding
Gondola's rich and deep hue makes it suitable for branding materials aiming to convey luxury, exclusivity, or earthiness. Use it to create business cards, letterheads, and other corporate stationary. When combined with metallic accents like gold or copper, it can enhance the perception of high quality. Consider using Gondola in logo designs for brands that aim to project a sense of reliability and warmth. It also works well with minimalist layouts and typographic designs, creating a sophisticated and memorable visual identity.
Interior Design
In interior design, Gondola can be used to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. This color is a good choice for accent walls, upholstery, or decorative accessories. When paired with warmer tones and textures, it creates a sense of intimacy and relaxation. Consider using Gondola in spaces designed for relaxation and rejuvenation, such as bedrooms or living rooms. It can also be incorporated into office spaces to add a touch of sophistication.