Gondola
General Information about Gondola
The hex color #281617, also known as Gondola, is a dark, desaturated shade of brown. It falls within the range of earthy tones, reminiscent of dark wood, soil, or rich chocolate. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 16.08% red, 8.63% green, and 9.02% blue. This combination results in a color that conveys a sense of warmth, stability, and sophistication. Gondola is often associated with natural elements, providing a grounding and comforting feel. Its low saturation contributes to its subtlety, making it a versatile choice for various design applications. This color has a certain depth, adding a touch of elegance when used carefully.
The hex color #281617, also known as Gondola, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value of approximately 3.5 cd/m² results in very poor contrast against standard white backgrounds. This low contrast makes it difficult for individuals with low vision or color blindness to distinguish text or graphical elements rendered in this color. Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) recommend a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text against its background. Gondola falls far short of these recommendations, necessitating careful consideration of its use. Designers should pair it with much lighter colors to ensure readability and usability. Tools like contrast checkers can help evaluate the compliance of color combinations with accessibility standards. Using Gondola as a primary text color is strongly discouraged unless the background is a very light shade.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, #281617 can be used sparingly for decorative elements or backgrounds where high contrast is not crucial. For example, it can provide a subtle accent color in website footers or within graphical elements. However, it should be avoided for text or interactive components unless paired with a sufficiently light color to ensure readability. This color can evoke a sense of sophistication and earthiness, making it suitable for brands aiming to project a refined, grounded image. The choice to use #281617 should be carefully weighed against accessibility considerations to ensure an inclusive user experience.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Gondola can serve as a sophisticated accent color in spaces aiming for a warm and inviting atmosphere. It can be used for painting accent walls, choosing furniture upholstery, or selecting decorative accessories. Given its dark nature, it is best paired with lighter, contrasting colors to prevent the space from feeling too dark or enclosed. The rich, earthy tone of #281617 adds depth and character to a room, making it suitable for living rooms, bedrooms, or studies where a sense of coziness is desired. However, using it in well-lit rooms is preferable to avoid a somber feel.
Fashion Accessory
In fashion, Gondola can be used as a base or accent color, mainly in autumn and winter collections, where a grounding and earthy palette is on trend. It works well in accessories such as belts, scarves, and leather bags. This color can also be paired with lighter, brighter colors to create an interesting contrast and can give clothing a timeless and sophisticated feel. Considering its deep hue, it is generally used in formal or smart-casual wear rather than athletic or children's apparel.