Ebony Clay
General Information
The hex color #262C3A, also known as Ebony Clay, is a dark, muted shade residing in the cool end of the color spectrum. It is composed of 15.3% red, 17.3% green, and 22.7% blue. In the RGB color space, this translates to a relatively low intensity across all three primary colors, resulting in its dark appearance. Ebony Clay evokes feelings of sophistication, stability, and understated elegance. It is often associated with professionalism and seriousness, making it a popular choice in designs aiming for a refined and trustworthy aesthetic. Its versatility allows it to be combined with both vibrant and muted colors to achieve different effects, from bold contrasts to harmonious blends.
The hex color #262C3A, also known as Ebony Clay, presents some accessibility challenges, especially concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it's crucial to select foreground text colors that provide sufficient contrast to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. A light text color, such as #FFFFFF or a very pale gray, would be suitable. Tools like the WebAIM contrast checker can be invaluable in verifying that the contrast ratio meets WCAG guidelines (ideally 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text). Avoid using similarly dark colors for text or interactive elements, as this can render them inaccessible. Considering alternative color combinations or providing options for users to adjust the color scheme can greatly improve the overall accessibility of a website or application using this color.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #333945
A slightly lighter neutral tone, offering better contrast when paired with darker text or elements. It retains a sophisticated feel while improving accessibility.
- #1a1f29
A darker shade provides a stronger base for light-colored text and elements, enhancing readability and visual hierarchy.
- #363636
More neutral shade that is easy to match.
Applications
Web Design
Ebony Clay (#262C3A) can serve as a sophisticated background for websites or applications in the tech or finance industries. Its muted tone provides a professional and serious ambiance, allowing content to stand out without distraction. In UI design, it works well for sidebars, headers, or footers, creating a visually appealing structure. Combining it with brighter accent colors like teal or gold can introduce visual interest and highlight key interactive elements. Make sure to test color pairings with a color contrast checker to guarantee legibility.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ebony Clay creates a cozy, intimate setting in living rooms or bedrooms when applied to accent walls or furniture. The dark hue adds depth and sophistication, especially when paired with lighter, contrasting elements like off-white sofas or metallic décor. This color also works well in home offices, providing a calming backdrop that reduces eye strain and promotes concentration. Ensure ample natural or artificial lighting to prevent the space from feeling too enclosed or gloomy.
Fashion
This color works well as an accent color for fashion to create a modern and polished look. It pairs well with leathers and creates a calm and soothing effect.