Steel Gray
General Information about Steel Gray (#282336)
The color #282336, also known as Steel Gray, is a dark, muted shade that evokes feelings of sophistication, calmness, and stability. It belongs to the gray color family and is characterized by its low saturation and moderate darkness. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 16.08% red, 13.73% green, and 21.18% blue. In the CMYK color model, used for printing, it consists of 24% cyan, 35% magenta, 0% yellow, and 79% black. This color is often associated with professionalism and is frequently used in corporate branding and design. Its neutrality makes it a versatile choice for various applications, from web design to interior decoration. The hex code #282336 provides a precise way to represent this color in digital environments, ensuring consistency across different platforms and devices. Due to its low brightness, it should be paired with contrasting colors to ensure accessibility and readability.
The hex color #282336, a dark steel gray, presents several accessibility considerations for web development. Its low luminance value means that sufficient contrast with foreground text is crucial to ensure readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text against the background color. Therefore, when using #282336 as a background, lighter text colors such as white or light gray should be chosen to meet these requirements. Also, relying solely on color to convey important information should be avoided; instead, incorporate text labels or icons to provide redundant cues for users with color vision deficiencies. Using accessibility evaluation tools can help verify that color combinations meet the necessary contrast ratios and that web content is accessible to a wide range of users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #333333
A slightly lighter shade of gray that offers better contrast with darker text while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #403a3a
A softer, warmer gray that provides a more inviting feel and can be easier on the eyes for extended reading.
- #1e1e1e
A very dark gray providing similar mood, with better contrast when paired with light elements.
Applications
Web and Graphic Design
In website design, #282336 can serve as a sophisticated background color for sections or entire pages. Its dark hue provides a visually appealing contrast when paired with lighter elements, contributing to a modern and professional aesthetic. In graphic design, this color can be utilized to create depth and subtle shadows, enhancing the visual hierarchy and making designs more engaging. Furthermore, #282336 is suitable for UI elements like buttons and input fields, adding a touch of elegance and professionalism. It creates a calm and focused enviroment, increasing the overall user experience.
Interior and Fashion Design
In interior design, #282336 can be used for walls, furniture, or accent pieces to create a sense of calmness and sophistication. It pairs well with lighter colors and natural materials like wood and stone, creating a balanced and inviting space. Additionally, this color can be used in fashion design for creating elegant and understated garments. It complements a wide range of skin tones and can be easily paired with other colors and accessories. Its neutrality makes it a versatile choice for both formal and casual wear, offering a timeless and refined look. Accents in vibrant colors can add character.
Modern User Interfaces
In user interface (UI) design, #282336 can be strategically employed to craft sleek and modern interfaces that exude professionalism and sophistication. Its subdued nature makes it an ideal choice for backgrounds, panels, and other structural elements, providing a visually appealing canvas for content. The color can also be used to effectively highlight interactive components, guiding users through intuitive navigation flows and enhancing overall usability. By incorporating this color, designers can create interfaces that leave a lasting impression of competence and reliability, fostering trust and confidence among users.