Mallard
General Information about #2A3818
The hex color #2A3818, also known as Mallard, is a dark shade of green that evokes feelings of nature, earthiness, and muted sophistication. This color is composed of 16.47% red, 21.96% green, and 9.41% blue. In the RGB color space, it represents a relatively low intensity across all channels, contributing to its subdued appearance. The name 'Mallard' likely refers to the plumage of a male mallard duck, which features similar dark green hues. This color is often associated with stability, growth, and the environment. In design, Mallard can be used to create a sense of calmness and can be an excellent choice for backgrounds, accents, or elements that require a subtle yet grounding presence. Its dark nature requires careful consideration of contrast when paired with text or other elements to ensure readability and accessibility.
The color #2A3818, also known as Mallard, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used for text or interactive elements. Its low luminance value of approximately 5% means that it requires very light text (white or near-white) to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) contrast requirements. For standard-sized text (14 points or 18 pixels and below), a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is needed, while large text (18 points or 24 pixels and above) requires a 3:1 ratio. Ensure that any text or interactive components placed on a #2A3818 background meet these contrast thresholds to accommodate users with visual impairments. When using this color as a background, consider offering a high-contrast mode for users who need it, which may involve inverting the color scheme or providing alternative color combinations. Testing your color scheme with accessibility tools like WebAIM's Contrast Checker or the Axe browser extension is crucial to ensure compliance and optimal user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #344024
A slightly lighter green shade can improve contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #404830
A desaturated olive tone offers a more muted alternative that still provides a natural feel.
- #1a220c
A darker shade can be used in places where contrast is not important, for example decorative non-interactive elements.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Mallard (#2A3818) can serve as a grounding accent color for natural or earthy themes. It works well for backgrounds in website footers or as a subtle highlight color for buttons or borders. When using it, be cautious about readability and accessibility. Pair it with lighter colors to achieve a sufficient contrast ratio, especially for text and interactive elements. Employ it sparingly to maintain visual harmony.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Mallard (#2A3818) can be used to evoke a sense of nature and tranquility. It is well suited for accent walls in living rooms or bedrooms, where it can create a calming atmosphere. Combine with natural wood tones, cream colors, or lighter greens to achieve a balanced and inviting space. Additionally, it can be used for soft furnishings like throw pillows, rugs, or curtains to add subtle color and depth.
Fashion Accent
In fashion, Mallard (#2A3818) offers a sophisticated and understated choice, particularly for outerwear or accessories. It can be used in items such as jackets, scarves, or handbags to add a touch of earthiness to an outfit. It pairs well with neutral colors like beige, gray, or brown, and can also be complemented by brighter colors like mustard yellow or deep red for a more vibrant contrast. Mallard provides a versatile option for creating both casual and semi-formal looks.