Coffee Bean
General Information
The hex color code #291011, often referred to as "Coffee Bean," is a dark, muted shade of brown. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 16.08% red, 6.27% green, and 6.67% blue. This color evokes feelings of warmth, earthiness, and comfort, reminiscent of roasted coffee beans. Colors similar to Coffee Bean are often used to convey stability and reliability. The hexadecimal system represents colors by combining six characters, each representing a value from 0-9 and A-F. Color #291011 has low saturation and a low brightness. The hex color is often associated with autumn and winter due to its warm and grounding nature.
The hex color #291011, also known as Coffee Bean, presents certain accessibility challenges, especially when used as a background or text color. Its low luminance value means that it requires very light text (white or near-white) to achieve sufficient contrast for readability, adhering to WCAG guidelines. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold/18pt regular or larger). When used for interactive elements like buttons or links, ensure a clear visual distinction through sufficient contrast and consider additional cues like underlines or borders. This color is not suitable for conveying critical information without careful attention to contrast. Using color contrast tools is highly recommended to assess and ensure compliance with accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade that offers better contrast when paired with darker text. It retains the warmth of the original color while improving readability.
A darker shade for backgrounds can make lighter text stand out more prominently, which makes it a good alternative for large areas.
A desaturated version of Coffee Bean that can provide a more neutral backdrop while still incorporating a hint of the original color's warmth. It serves as a very muted tone.
Applications
Web Design Accents
In web design, Coffee Bean (#291011) can be used sparingly for background accents or borders to add a touch of warmth and sophistication. It's best suited for designs aiming for a rustic, vintage, or natural aesthetic. However, due to its dark nature, it requires careful pairing with light-colored text and elements to ensure readability and accessibility. Using it as a primary background color is not recommended, but it can be effective for small sections or decorative elements when contrasted appropriately.
Interior Design Accents
In interior design, Coffee Bean can be used as a wall color in small spaces like home offices or reading nooks to create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. It also works well as an accent color for furniture, textiles, or decor items in larger rooms. When using it as a wall color, balance it with lighter, brighter elements to prevent the space from feeling too dark or enclosed. The use of Coffee Bean can bring a touch of earthiness to a modern setting.
Fashion Accents
Coffee Bean can serve as a grounding element in fashion, particularly in autumn/winter collections. Think dark brown leather accessories, knitwear, or as a base color for earthy-toned prints. It pairs well with other warm, muted colors like olive green, mustard yellow, and burnt orange to create a sophisticated, natural palette. The color is versatile, lends itself well as a base color for natural palettes, and can be paired with bold accents for a more striking look.