Gondola
General Information
The hexadecimal color #281814, commonly referred to as Gondola, is a deep, muted shade of brown. It belongs to the family of earth tones, evoking a sense of warmth, stability, and natural elegance. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 16.08% red, 9.41% green, and 7.84% blue. This color's low saturation and luminance give it a subtle, understated quality, making it suitable for applications where a sophisticated and grounding effect is desired. It is often associated with traditional or vintage aesthetics, and can be used to create a sense of timelessness and reliability. Gondola is a very dark color and not very bright. Its subdued nature means it should be used cautiously to not make text illegible.
The hex color #281814, also known as Gondola, presents accessibility challenges due to its low luminance value. This deep, muted shade of brown has limited contrast against both light and dark backgrounds. For web content, it is crucial to ensure sufficient contrast ratios, particularly for text and interactive elements. According to WCAG guidelines, text should have a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 against its background to be considered accessible for users with visual impairments. Using #281814 for text or important UI elements requires careful consideration of the background color to meet these standards. A lighter color for text on a #281814 background or a darker color for the background with #281814 text, alongside larger font sizes and heavier font weights, can help improve legibility. Avoid pairing it with similar dark colors, as this will reduce contrast even further, making content difficult to read. Always test color combinations with accessibility tools to ensure compliance.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, #281814 can be used sparingly to evoke a sense of earthiness, vintage charm, or quiet luxury. It's suitable for backgrounds in small sections, such as headers or footers, or as an accent color for borders or dividers. Its somber hue can work in websites relating to history, nature, or artisanal crafts. When incorporated into a larger design, it pairs well with lighter neutral tones, such as creams or beiges, to create a balanced and visually appealing contrast.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #281814 can be used to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in rooms with ample natural light. It works well as an accent wall color, particularly in bedrooms or living rooms. It can also be used for furniture pieces like leather sofas or wooden cabinets. Complementary colors include soft greens, creams, or golds to create a balanced and sophisticated palette.
Fashion Apparel
In fashion, #281814 is a versatile color that can be used in various garment types, from jackets to trousers to accessories. It is especially suitable for autumn and winter collections. It provides a grounding tone when paired with brighter colors or can be used for monochromatic outfits to express timeless elegance. As an element it could be used as belts or buttons.