Graphite
General Information
The hex color #29170A, often referred to as Graphite, is a very dark shade of brown with subtle hints of both red and green. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 16.08% red, 9.02% green, and 3.92% blue. The sRGB value is (41, 23, 10). In the CMYK color model, it consists of 0% cyan, 44.0% magenta, 75.6% yellow, and 83.9% black. This color evokes feelings of earthiness, stability, and sophistication. It's frequently associated with natural materials like stone and wood, making it a popular choice for designs aiming for a grounding, understated aesthetic. In web design, Graphite provides a neutral backdrop that allows other colors to stand out. The subdued nature of Graphite makes it an excellent choice for logos and branding materials requiring a mature and reliable image.
The hex color #29170A, also known as Graphite, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value (dark color) results in poor contrast against light backgrounds, making it difficult for individuals with low vision to discern text or graphical elements. When used as a foreground color, it necessitates a very light background to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) contrast ratio requirements. It's crucial to avoid using this color for essential interactive elements like buttons or links without careful consideration of contrast. For optimal accessibility, pair Graphite with very light hues or consider using it sparingly for decorative purposes. When employing this color, ensure that the contrast ratio with adjacent colors is at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Provide alternative styling options for users who may need higher contrast. Consider implementing a color contrast checker during the design process to validate accessibility compliance.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Background
Graphite (#29170A) can be used as a background color for websites to create a sophisticated and grounded aesthetic. It evokes feelings of stability and neutrality. Its subtle nature makes it ideal for showcasing brighter elements, like photography and artwork, without distraction. It pairs well with lighter text and vibrant accents, allowing these elements to take center stage. When used in web design, consider implementing sufficient contrast ratios to ensure the content remains accessible to a broad range of users, especially those with visual impairments. The color can be employed sparingly to define sections and enhance visual hierarchy.
Interior Design
Graphite (#29170A) in interior design projects can serve as a foundational color. Its grounding effect is valuable for creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. This muted tone allows for accent colors and textures to pop, creating a dynamic and visually engaging space. Graphite is also suitable for flooring, creating a sense of permanence and stability. When used on walls, the color is best in rooms with ample natural light, or it can make the room appear smaller and darker. The flexibility of graphite means it works well with a variety of design styles, from modern to traditional.
Mobile UI Design
Graphite (#29170A) is a subtle yet impactful color choice for UI design in mobile apps. As a background or accent color, it provides a sophisticated and professional look. Due to its dark nature, it pairs well with light or vibrant text and graphics, ensuring readability and visual appeal. Graphite can be used to delineate sections or highlight key features, enhancing the user experience. To prevent eye strain, be mindful of the contrast ratio when selecting text colors or other UI elements. It could also be used as a neutral color within a color palette.